Murfreesboro offers a special outdoor space for everyone to enjoy. This is the Murfreesboro Greenway System. It provides a vast network of trails for walking, biking, or simply relaxing in nature. The system connects people to local history and beautiful natural spots.
Greenway Basics: What to Know
The Murfreesboro Greenway System spans over 17 miles of trails. It includes many bridges and boardwalks. This network links parks, neighborhoods, and even businesses. It also helps protect natural areas for local wildlife.
Many activities are possible on the Greenway. People can walk, run, or ride bicycles. In-line skating is also popular. Some areas allow wading in the water. Visitors often take nature photos or watch birds. Picnics are common, and fishing spots are available. The Greenway also features three launch points for small boats. Two bark parks offer off-leash areas for dogs.
The Greenway system has clear rules for everyone’s safety and enjoyment. Trails open at daylight each day. They close 30 minutes before sunset. Gateway Island has longer hours, staying open from 6 AM to 10 PM. Children under 16 who ride bikes must wear helmets. Riders should stay on paved trails and keep a safe speed. It is important to yield to walkers and signal when passing them. Visitors must not litter and should protect plants and animals. Alcohol, drugs, and motor vehicles are not allowed. For safety, people should hide valuables in their cars and lock their vehicles. If a problem arises, the Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department can be called at 615-890-5333. For emergencies, dial 911.
The detailed rules and clear contact information show a well-managed system. This focus on safety and environmental care benefits all visitors. The city’s commitment to these guidelines helps keep the trails pleasant and secure for everyone.
Main Greenway Sections: Explore Our Trails
The Murfreesboro Greenway has seven distinct sections. Each section offers a different outdoor experience.
Greenway Sections at a Glance
For a quick overview, the table below lists each section, its length, and what makes it special.
| Section Name | Length (Miles) | Key Features & What Can Be Seen |
| North Murfreesboro Greenway | 1.3 | Scenic river overlooks, quiet nature path |
| Stones River Trail | 10.5 | Main path, diverse nature, wildlife, historical access |
| Lytle Creek Trail | 1.1 | Most urban section, connects city points |
| Fortress Rosecrans Loop Trail | 0.9 | Civil War history, earthen forts |
| Murfree Spring Trail | 0.4 | Wetlands, birdwatching, wildlife photography (boardwalk closed) |
| West College Street Spur Trail | 1.4 | Connects to Stones River National Battlefield Visitor Center |
| Gateway Island Trail | ~1.0 | Well-lit, open late, near shops, community events, bird hotspot |
Stones River Trail: The Long Main Path
This trail is the backbone of the entire Greenway system. It stretches for 10.5 miles. The path follows the West Fork Stones River. It runs from the Thompson Lane Trailhead all the way to Barfield Crescent Park.
The path is made of asphalt. It winds through many natural settings. Visitors can see limestone bottoms and hardwood forests. There are also areas that look like cedar glades. Old trees, native wildflowers, and rock outcrops line the way. This area is home to much wildlife. People might spot great-horned owls, great blue herons, bobcats, and deer. The trail’s length and varied natural settings make it a core experience of the Greenway. It appeals to serious users and nature lovers alike. Its many access points ensure broad community access.
The Stones River Trail has 11 trailheads, offering many ways to get on the path. These include:
- Thompson Lane Trailhead
- Broad Street Trailhead
- General Bragg Trailhead
- Redoubt Brannan Trailhead
- Manson Pike Trailhead
- Overall Street Trailhead
- Old Fort Park Trailhead
- Cason Trailhead
- Barfield Road Trailhead
- Southridge Blvd. Trailhead
- Barfield Crescent Park Trailhead
North Murfreesboro Greenway: A Quiet River Path
This section is 1.3 miles long. It is a standalone part of the system. The trail runs along the East Fork Stones River. It is found on the northeast side of Murfreesboro.
Visitors can find benches at two scenic spots along this path. These overlooks face the East Fork Stones River. There are plans to make this section even longer in the future. This new part will be called the Central Valley Loop. It will offer more river views and a flatter path. The North Murfreesboro Greenway’s standalone nature and future extension plans show a strategic, phased development of the system. This indicates a long-term vision for expanding recreational access and preserving natural areas. The collaboration between the City of Murfreesboro and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for its construction also highlights a strong commitment to its growth.
Access points for this section include:
- Central Valley Trailhead
- Walter Hill Trailhead
Lytle Creek Trail: Our City Trail
This is the most urban section of the Greenway. It is 1.1 miles long. The trail follows Lytle Creek.
This trail connects important city spots. It links Cannonsburgh Village to Old Fort Park. From Old Fort Park, it then joins the Stones River Trail. Lytle Creek Trail’s urban character and connections to Cannonsburgh Village and Old Fort Park highlight the Greenway’s ability to integrate nature into the city’s fabric. This provides convenient green space access within developed areas.
Access points for this trail are:
- Cannonsburgh Trailhead
- Overall Street Trailhead
Fortress Rosecrans Loop Trail: A Walk Through History
This trail is a 0.9-mile loop. It has an asphalt surface.
As people walk, they will pass remaining sections of Fortress Rosecrans. This was a very large earthen fort built during the Civil War. Union soldiers built it in 1863, after the Battle of Stones River. The fort is now part of Stones River National Battlefield. Visitors can find historical signs along the trail to learn more. This trail provides a unique, immersive historical experience. It allows visitors to physically walk through a significant Civil War site, directly connecting them to the past.
The main access point for this loop is the Fortress Rosecrans Trailhead.
Murfree Spring Trail: Wetlands and Wildlife
This trail is 0.4 miles long. It combines both boardwalk and asphalt surfaces.
The trail borders and crosses the Murfree Spring Wetlands. This is a popular spot in Murfreesboro for birdwatching. It is also great for wildlife photography. This trail’s focus on wetlands and wildlife, despite its short length, shows the Greenway’s dedication to preserving diverse ecosystems. It provides specialized nature observation opportunities for visitors.
West College Street Spur Trail: To the Battlefield
This trail is 1.4 miles long. It connects the Murfreesboro Greenway System to Stones River National Battlefield.
The trail leads directly to the Battlefield Visitor Center. This trail specifically acts as a direct link to the National Battlefield. It highlights the Greenway’s role as an access corridor to major historical landmarks. This connection makes it easy for visitors to combine outdoor activity with learning about local history.
The access points for this trail are:
- West College Street Trailhead
- Stones River National Battlefield Visitor Center
An important note for people walking this trail: please do not feed the waterfowl. This guidance helps protect local wildlife.
Gateway Island Trail: Bright and Busy
This trail is a part of the Greenway system. It is well-lit, making it suitable for walks or runs.
One special feature is its longer hours. It is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This is later than other Greenway trails. The trail is often used for charity walks and races. It is also a popular spot for birdwatchers. It is even listed as an official eBird Hotspot. The Gateway Island Trail’s extended hours and suitability for organized events indicate its role as a versatile community space. It supports both individual recreation and larger public gatherings.
The trail is also very close to Fountains at Gateway. People can park at Fountains at Gateway. They can enjoy a stroll or bike ride, then return for lunch or dessert at one of the eateries. The Greenway travels right near these shops. This connection to Fountains at Gateway shows the Greenway’s role in supporting local businesses. It offers a convenient “park-and-dine” experience.
The main access point is the Gateway Island Trailhead. Access is located at 1902 West College Street.
Explore More: Special Spots & Access Points
The Murfreesboro Greenway System offers many ways to start an adventure. There are 16 trailheads in total. Each trailhead provides unique features and access to different parts of the Greenway. The comprehensive listing of sections, trailheads, launch points, and bark parks demonstrates the system’s interconnectedness. It also shows the city’s effort to provide diverse access points for various activities. This makes it easy for visitors to find a suitable entry point for their specific interests.
Murfreesboro Greenway Trailheads and Key Features
This table lists each trailhead, its address, and what special features or access it provides.
| Trailhead Name | Address | Key Features / Access To |
| Barfield Crescent Park Trailhead | 697 Veterans Pkwy. | Disc golf course, hiking trails, Wilderness Station, baseball fields |
| Southridge Boulevard Trailhead | 104 Player Dr. | General trail access |
| Barfield Road Trailhead | 1989 Barfield Rd. | General trail access |
| Cason Trailhead | 1100 Cason Tr. | Follows Stones River, large footbridge, fishing points |
| Old Fort Park Trailhead | 1025 Old Fort Pkwy. | Kid’s Castle playground, tennis courts, golf course, skatepark |
| Fortress Rosecrans Trailhead | Golf Ln. | Historical readings, Civil War sites |
| Overall Street Trailhead | 264 Overall St. | Adjacent city park, baseball/softball, Lytle Creek |
| Cannonsburgh Village Trailhead | 312 S. Front St. | Leads to Cannonsburgh Village |
| Manson Pike Trailhead | 1208 Searcy St. | Small watercraft launch point |
| Redoubt Brannan Trailhead | 1300 W. College St. | Access to historical site |
| General Bragg Trailhead | 1540 W. College St. | Access to Bark Park |
| West College Street Trailhead | 1584 W. College St. | Connects to Stones River National Battlefield |
| Gateway Island Trailhead | 1875 W. College St. | Near Fountains at Gateway, open late |
| Broad Street Trailhead | 1921 NW Broad St. | General trail access |
| Thompson Lane Trailhead | 2240 N. Thompson Ln. | Main Greenway artery end, parking, restrooms, picnic areas, watercraft access, McFadden’s Farm |
| Central Valley Trailhead | Central Valley Road | Part of North Murfreesboro Greenway |
| Walter Hill Trailhead | Highway 231 | Small watercraft launch point |
The Murfreesboro Greenway System is a true asset to the community. It offers more than just trails for exercise. It serves as a living connection to Civil War history, linking directly to important sites like Stones River National Battlefield. This means visitors can combine outdoor activity with learning about the past.
The system is extensive, boasting over 17 miles of trails and 16 access points. This wide reach, along with diverse activities like birdwatching, paddling, and dog parks, makes it usable by people of all ages and interests. The Greenway is also a central community space. It hosts events like charity walks and connects to local businesses, such as Fountains at Gateway. This helps local commerce and offers a convenient way to combine outdoor fun with dining or shopping.
The city shows a strong commitment to the Greenway’s future. Plans for extensions, like the Central Valley Loop, show ongoing growth. The cooperation between the city and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers highlights a dedication to expanding recreational opportunities and preserving nature. Rules are in place to keep the trails safe and clean. Active maintenance, like boardwalk repairs, ensures the trails stay in good condition.
This system supports both active lifestyles and serves as an option for travel without a car. It is a vital part of Murfreesboro’s infrastructure, promoting public health and sustainable living. The Greenway truly offers a unique blend of nature, history, and community for everyone to enjoy.
