Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop
Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop
3.3
(25)
74
riders
Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop
01:05
18.6km
110m
Road cycling
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.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 12.8 km for 125 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
5.52 km
Sevier Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
10.7 km
Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Two Rivers Parkway Bridge
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
Tip by
18.6 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
12.5 km
2.92 km
2.81 km
138 m
104 m
104 m
Surfaces
15.5 km
1.58 km
1.42 km
104 m
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Elevation
Highest point (170 m)
Lowest point (120 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 9 May
27°C
12°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cycle the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop?
The loop is approximately 18.6 km (11.5 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes to complete on a race bike, depending on your pace.
Is this trail suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop is considered easy and is highly suitable for beginners and cyclists of all experience levels. Its mostly flat and paved surface makes it a great place for a leisurely ride or for kids to learn to cycle.
What is the terrain like on the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop?
The greenway features largely flat and meandering paved paths, making it ideal for road cycling. While generally smooth, some sections near the Cumberland River might have slight bumps. It is ADA accessible, indicating a smooth and even surface throughout.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect?
You'll cycle through a 950-acre preserve and floodplain along the Cumberland River, enjoying views of bottomland hardwood forests, open fields, wetlands, and streams. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including birds, amphibians, deer, and various plant life like wildflowers. Overlooks provide opportunities to view the Cumberland River.
What notable features or landmarks will I see along the way?
Along the route, you'll pass by Sevier Lake and cross the Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Two Rivers Parkway Bridge. The trail also winds through the former Cornelia Fort Air Park, which is now a unique area for cyclists.
Does this greenway connect to other trails?
Yes, the Shelby Bottoms Greenway is a crucial part of Nashville's extensive greenway system. It connects to the Stones River Greenway via a pedestrian bridge over the Cumberland River, forming part of the larger Music City Bikeway. This allows you to extend your ride towards downtown Nashville, Nissan Stadium, and even the Grand Ole Opry. The route also passes through sections of the Music City Bikeway, Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Shelby Park Greenway, and Cornelia Fort Trail.
When is the best time of year to visit?
The greenway is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are best. Winter rides are also possible, though some amenities might have reduced hours.
Where can I park to access the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop?
There are multiple trailheads with parking available. The main trailhead is located at the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center, which also offers amenities like restrooms. You can find more detailed parking information on the Nashville.gov parks website.
Is the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the greenway. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all users and to protect the natural wildlife in the preserve.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Shelby Bottoms Greenway?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Natural Area. It is a public park and greenway system, freely accessible to everyone.
Are there amenities like restrooms or bike rentals available?
Yes, restrooms are available at the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center, which serves as a primary trailhead. Additionally, bike rental stations are conveniently located near the greenway, making it easy to access if you don't bring your own bike.
What is the speed limit on the greenway?
For the safety of all users, there is a 15 MPH speed limit on the greenway. Cyclists are advised to adhere to this limit and stay on the paved trails only.