Explore old-growth forests, go on a hike or enjoy some horse racing at these two popular green spaces in Nashville.
Known by locals as the “Warner Parks”, the Edwin and Percy Warner Parks are located next to one another and collectively spread across 1,200 hectares of land. Opened in 1927 on an area of land donated by the Warner Family, today the parks make up a significant nature reserve which is home to many species of animal, bird and plant, as well as old-growth forest spreading over 32 hectares.
Start off at the Warner Park Nature Center, where you'll find plenty of activities that are perfect for all ages. This is where you can also find the Susanne Warner Bass Learning Center, which is a natural history museum, a greenhouse, a learning pond and native gardens.
If you’re trying to keep fit, this is a great place to go for a walk or a run. The parks contain nine different hiking trails which range from easy ambles to advanced hikes spanning as far as 19 kilometres. For more information on navigating the four trailheads, pick up a map from the Nature Center to help you find your way. Alternatively, you can take the car route around Percy Warner, along which you can stop off at observation points where you can enjoy captivating views.
For a different kind of recreational activity, you can go for a round on the nine-hole Percy Warner Golf Course or move up a level to the 18-hole Harpeth Hills Golf Course. Both are open to the public, but make sure you bring appropriate golfing gear. On the park elsewhere, you'll also find horse riding trails and an equestrian centre.
On the second Saturday in May, this is where the Iroquois Steeplechase, Nashville's most exciting horse race, takes place. One of the highlights on Nashville's social calendar, this annual horse race is a thrilling event well worth catching if you're in town.
Situated about 14 kilometres from downtown Nashville, the Warner Parks are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
