Warner Parks: a natural, refreshing surprise
Published: May 22, 2009
Need a break from city life? There’s a natural oasis just a few miles from downtown Nashville.
Edward and Percy Warner Parks, known collectively as Warner Parks, are the largest municipally administered parks in Tennessee. Together, the parks stretch 2,684 acres of green forests, dirt trails and ample wild life for Nashville’s nature enthusiasts.
It's hard to believe that the parks, which appear to remain fairly untouched, are less than 10 miles away from the looming high-rises and bustling streets of Nashville. But once you’ve taken the trek away from the city, Warner Parks offer a refreshing surprise.
Seen from its Belle Meade Boulevard entrance, the parks show a breathtaking view of trees, rolling trails and stone stairs. Wildflowers sprinkle the trails with vibrant pops of color among the green foliage. Trails, both paved and dirt paths, are broken with scenic overlooks, open meadows and streams, and deer and other wildlife can be spotted walking leisurely between the trees.
The parks are a favorite of nature enthusiasts marveling at the wonders of the trees, plants and flowers, but for those looking primarily for exercise, they feature trails for all fitness levels.
Edwin Warner Park has six trails.The Hungry Hawk Trail, Little Acorn Trail, Amphitheater Trail, Nature Loop, Harpeth Woods Trail and the Owl Hollow Trail all offer varied skill levels ranging in easy to moderate. Each offers something different to hikers, whether it’s crossing an inactive rock quarry or hearing and seeing owls.
Percy Warner Park has two trails, the Warner Woods Trail that is a 2.5-mile moderate loop and the Mossy Ridge Trail, a 4.5-mile moderate loop. The park also has three bridle paths for walking and riding horses. Trailheads are located in both parks to outline the routes with interactive maps.
The park is quite popular on the weekends, especially on sunny, cloudless days. Those looking to enjoy a quieter walk or jog should try visiting weekday mornings. Parts of the parks are accessible to vehicles so drivers and walkers should be aware.
The Warner Park Nature Center is a year-round environmental education and rental facility that sponsors hikes, children’s programs and outdoors safety information sessions throughout the year. The center is located at 7311 Highway 100 in Edwin Warner Park.
- by Leah Caudle , Nashville Reporter for HelloMetro
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