We are fortunate to have myriad parks and trails in and around Memphis. From the Mississippi to the much beloved Greenline, the opportunities are limitless to walk, skate, cycle or scooter. One of the best ways to explore the paths is with a goal in mind, particularly one related to the delicious food Memphis has on offer.
Here are several suggestions for an adventure in our beautiful town, along with a tasty reward for your hard work. You will definitely be walking on a proverbial cloud while appreciating our beautiful city.
Shelby Farms Greenline west to High Point Terrace
Shelby Farms Greenline and the Wolf River Greenway are ideal spots to start a Memphis adventure. There are several parking areas to launch, both in Shelby Farms and from Wolf River Drive. A trip to High Point Terrace is best done with a bicycle; it is 17 miles round trip (50 minutes each way). The path is beautiful with peaceful tree canopies through the Wolf River Greenway and along Sam Cooper Boulevard. High Point Pizza is a great midpoint reward before heading back. Their pizzas can be customized and are fuel for the return trip.
Shelby Farms Greenline east to Cordova Train Depot
If you are feeling that the wind is blowing you east rather than west, a trip to the Cordova Train Depot is a great destination. This round trip from Shelby Farms or Wolf River is 16 miles (45 minutes each way). A midway stop at the former Cordova Depot provides you with several food truck options ranging from barbecue to kebabs and includes a covered seating area to rest and catch your breath.
(While the Greenline previously ended at the Cordova Depot, it now continues further east if you’d like to continue your journey!)
Big River Crossing
The Big River Crossing offers both short and long excursions along its many paths. It is the longest Mississippi River crossing by foot or bicycle. Park on the Tennessee side near The Church of the River and you will encounter the friendliest cyclists and pedestrians in Memphis. The bridge is a mile-long spanning the river from Tennessee to Arkansas. You will see trains slowly traverse the river, barges navigating each way and the stunning Memphis skyline. Once you reach Arkansas, there are additional trails along the watershed that you can explore as your time permits. If you do the crossing in the morning, when you return to Memphis, stop by Hive and treat yourself to a tasty homemade bagel.
Tom Lee Park and Mud Island
If you’d prefer to stay on the Tennessee side of the river, there are two great options: Tom Lee Park and Mud Island. Both parks are part of the greater Greenbelt Park along the Mississippi. Newly renovated Tom Lee Park connects the city and bluff to the mighty river with walkways and beautiful park landscapes. On Mud Island, you can enjoy the river in a more tranquil manner. The walkways are surrounded by trees and the peaceful residences of the Island. Stop by Cordelia’s for a snack or Crazy Gander for a coffee if you visit in the morning. If you prefer an evening stroll, both parks are excellent to see a Mississippi sunset.
These are just a few of the many wonderful options for exploring our river city. If you prefer seclusion, T.O. Fuller State Park and Meeman-Shelby State Park are great options. If you’d like to explore more urban areas, visit Overton Park and the V&E Greenline. No matter where your feet or wheels take you, adventures await - along with delicious food!