The best traffic-free bike rides around Nashville-Davidson
4.7
(37)
2,180
riders
60
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Nashville-Davidson traverse a landscape characterized by an extensive greenway system, rolling hills, and river valleys. The region features significant natural elements like the Cumberland River and the Highland Rim Forest, offering varied terrain for cyclists. These routes often follow paved paths through lush parks and along waterways, providing a mix of flat sections and gentle climbs. The area's geography supports a diverse range of cycling experiences, from riverside greenways to more challenging routes through wooded hills.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Nashville-Davidson
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop, an 11.5 miles (18.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 5 minutes to complete. This easy loop winds through a lush parkway along the Cumberland River, offering scenic views.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Percy Warner Park – Percy Warner Park Trail loop from Montgomery Bell Academy, a Moderate 19.3 miles (31.1 km) path. This route leads through rolling hills and wooded areas within the expansive Warner Parks.
- Local road cyclists also love the Shelby Bottoms Greenway – Stones River Greenway loop from Donelson, a 22.2 miles (35.7 km) trail leading through river greenways and meadows, often completed in about 1 hour 47 minutes.
- Road cycling around Nashville-Davidson is defined by extensive greenways, rolling hills, and river valleys, offering both flat, scenic rides and routes with more significant elevation changes. The network provides options for various ability levels, from easy family-friendly paths to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Nashville-Davidson are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 2,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Nashville-Davidson's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 26, 2026
9
riders
18.6km
01:05
110m
110m
Embark on an easy road cycling adventure along the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop, a 11.5-mile (18.6 km) paved route that winds through diverse natural landscapes. You will experience a gentle ride with only 352 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes. As you pedal, you will pass through bottomland hardwood forests, open fields, and wetlands, with picturesque views of the Cumberland River appearing at various points along the way. Keep an eye out for Sevier Lake, a notable landmark on the loop. The smooth surface is ideal for your road bike, offering a pleasant and accessible journey.
Planning your visit to the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop is straightforward, with multiple trailheads available for easy access. The main trailhead is conveniently located at the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center, which also provides restrooms for visitors. If you need a bike, rental stations are nearby, ensuring you have everything you need for your ride. The trail is generally flat and well-maintained, welcoming cyclists of all skill levels to enjoy its natural beauty.
This urban oasis is a haven for local wildlife, offering you a chance to spot various birds, amphibians, and deer as you cycle. The route's design through the Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Natural Area highlights the importance of preserving these diverse ecosystems within the city. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and observe its inhabitants, making your ride more than just exercise. The blend of natural scenery and easy accessibility makes this loop a standout option for a quick escape into the outdoors.
4.5
(6)
128
riders
35.8km
02:05
170m
170m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
119
riders
38.1km
01:56
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
75
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
70
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures around Nashville-Davidson
Tips from the Community
Great spot to do tempo, training, or hop on the paths for long days on the bike
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This section of Percy Warner Paved Trail connects with the Warner Woods Trail and shows off some amazing views of the Nashville skyline in the distance.
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Located in the heart of downtown, this pedestrian-friendly area honors music legends with stars embedded in the sidewalk. It’s a great place to slow down a bit and do some sightseeing, be mindful of pedestrians as the area can get busy, especially during events.
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Two straightfoward lines forming a loop, with nothing sorrounding, perfect for TT intervals. Enjoy it for as long as you want, and just be careful on the turns.
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Shelby Bottoms Greenway stretches through a natural area along the Cumberland River, connecting Two Rivers Park with Shelby Bottoms via a paved pedestrian/bike bridge. It’s a smooth path surrounded by greenery and shared with pedestrians, so if needed, slow down and enjoy the view.
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The Percy Warner Park Trail is a paved trail that runs through Percy Warner Park. The trail is popular, so make sure you are respectful of other trail users while riding through the park.
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Percy Warner Park is a beautiful green space south of Nashville. The park is full of paths that are a mix of dirt and paved. The park also has parking, restrooms, and a picnic area.
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Great viewpoint over Percy Warner Park. The ride up to the top is not too strenuous, so it is definitely worth the effort.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Nashville-Davidson?
Nashville-Davidson offers a wide selection of routes designed for road cycling with minimal traffic. You can find over 60 such routes, catering to various skill levels, from easy to challenging.
What makes Nashville-Davidson a good destination for no-traffic road cycling?
Nashville-Davidson is excellent for no-traffic road cycling due to its extensive greenway system, including over 90 miles of off-road trails. These paved paths often follow rivers, providing scenic views and a safe cycling environment away from vehicle traffic. Areas like Percy Warner Park also offer dedicated paved loops.
Are there easy, car-free road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, many greenways are ideal for easy, car-free cycling. The Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop is a largely flat, 11.5-mile paved path along the Cumberland River, perfect for all fitness levels. Another great option is the Shelby Bottoms Greenway – Stones River Greenway loop from Donelson, which is also rated as easy.
Where can I find more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes?
For a more challenging experience, consider routes that incorporate the rolling hills of areas like Percy Warner Park. The Percy Warner Park – Percy Warner Park Trail loop from Montgomery Bell Academy offers significant elevation changes over its 31 km, providing a good workout. The Stones River Greenway also features some rolling hills that can challenge seasoned riders.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these routes?
You'll experience diverse scenery, from lush riverside views along the Cumberland and Stones Rivers to wooded parklands and open meadows. Routes like those in Shelby Bottoms Greenway offer beautiful natural landscapes, while others might provide glimpses of the Nashville skyline.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, many routes offer access to natural and cultural highlights. For instance, the Shelby Bottoms Greenway itself is a highlight, and you can explore the tranquil Radnor Lake Trail near some cycling areas. You can also find highlights like the Shoreline of J. Percy Priest Lake, offering scenic water views.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Nashville-Davidson?
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Nashville-Davidson, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained greenway system, the variety of terrain, and the beautiful natural settings that make for enjoyable, traffic-free rides.
Is public transport available to access these car-free cycling routes?
Nashville's greenway system is designed for accessibility. While specific public transport connections vary, many greenways, including Shelby Bottoms and Stones River Greenways, have access points that can be reached via local bus services. It's advisable to check Nashville MTA routes for the most current information on reaching specific trailheads.
Where can I park my car when accessing these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Most major greenways and parks, such as Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Stones River Greenway, and Percy Warner Park, offer dedicated parking lots at their trailheads or access points. These are generally well-marked and provide convenient starting points for your ride.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, many of the greenway routes are designed as loops, making them perfect for circular rides. The Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop is a prime example, offering a complete circuit without needing to retrace your path. Other routes, like the Sevier Lake – Shelby Bottoms Greenway loop from Donelson, also provide excellent circular options.
Can I find amenities like cafes or restaurants near these routes?
While the greenways themselves are primarily natural spaces, many are located within or near urban areas. You can often find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities in the neighborhoods adjacent to popular greenways like Shelby Bottoms and Stones River, especially in areas like East Nashville or Donelson.
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