5 of My Favorite Places to Take a Dog in Nashville

When I first moved to Nashville, I was expecting a bustling city vibe—concrete, traffic, and more city blocks than green space. But what I found instead surprised me in the best way: Nashville is filled with parks, paved trails, and serene outdoor spaces, all just a short drive from most neighborhoods. As someone who spends her days walking dogs and exploring the city with them, I’ve had the chance to discover some truly incredible spots that both people and pets enjoy. If you're looking for the best places for dog walking in Nashville, here are five of my personal favorites.

1. Shelby Park & Shelby Bottoms Greenway – East Nashville

Shelby Park, located in East Nashville, is a dog walker’s dream. The park connects to the Shelby Bottoms Greenway, offering miles of wide, paved trails that wind through scenic woods and open fields. One of my favorite features is the pond—it's peaceful to walk around and often has ducks or herons nearby, which keeps dogs intrigued (while safely leashed, of course). There's a great mix of sun and shade here, and it's spacious enough that it rarely feels crowded, even on weekends.

Whether I’m walking a high-energy pup that needs distance or a senior dog that prefers a slow stroll, Shelby is a go-to. It’s also a great place to spot other friendly dog walkers and feel part of the Nashville pet-loving community.

2. Radnor Lake State Park – South Nashville/Oak Hill

Radnor Lake is where I go when I want to slow down and enjoy a quiet, nature-filled walk with a dog by my side. It’s one of the more tranquil spots in the city and offers a paved trail that runs right alongside the lake. There’s something calming about the water views and the quiet atmosphere—no bikes or running allowed on many of the trails, which helps keep things peaceful.

This is a great option for dogs that enjoy steady movement and minimal distractions. It’s especially beautiful in the fall, when the trees reflect their colors on the water. Keep in mind that dogs must stay on the paved Otter Creek Road trail, but it still offers a lovely walk with a view.

3. Cornelia Fort Airpark – East Nashville

This hidden gem is a unique part of Nashville’s park system. Once a functioning airport, it’s now a wide-open space perfect for dog walking. The layout is ideal for dogs who are reactive or need extra space: you can see far in every direction, which helps avoid unexpected encounters with other dogs or cyclists. It feels safe and open, and the former runways are now trails that allow for easy walking.

It connects to the Shelby Bottoms Greenway, so it’s easy to turn a short outing into a longer adventure if your dog is up for it.

4. Percy Priest Trail System – Near Hermitage & Donelson

There are several trailheads around Percy Priest Lake, and one of my favorite things about walking dogs here is that you almost always get a view of the water. It adds a peaceful element to the walk, and the gentle sounds of the lake are calming for both people and pets.

There’s also a good amount of tree coverage, which provides relief on those hot Nashville days. The terrain offers a bit of variety—some easy inclines, shaded trails, and plenty of spots to take a break. It’s a wonderful place for dogs who love to explore new smells and environments.

5. McCabe Greenway Loop (near McCabe Golf Course) – Sylvan Park

(This is officially known as the McCabe Greenway, which loops around the McCabe Golf Course.)

If you live or work near Sylvan Park, this is an easy and accessible walking option that doesn’t feel like you’re in the middle of the city. The paved loop is well-maintained and great for all weather conditions. Because it wraps around the golf course, you get a consistent breeze and a surprising amount of greenery.

There are multiple access points and it's typically not crowded on weekdays, making it a good choice for mid-day walks. I’ve taken many dogs here for their regular walks—it’s just a solid, reliable route that’s still scenic and peaceful.

Looking for More Than a Walk? Try Our Adventure Outings

At Prefurred Pets Nashville, we offer something extra special for pups who love a bit more stimulation and variety. Our Adventure Outings are 90-minute excursions where we take your dog to one of the beautiful spots listed above (or a similar local favorite) for a longer, enriching outdoor experience. These outings help break up your dog’s routine, provide exercise and mental stimulation, and offer a change of scenery—whether you're at work or out of town.

Many clients add Adventure Outings to their pet’s care while they travel, or book them during the week to give their pup a true midday highlight.

Interested? Visit our service page to learn more and book your dog's next adventure. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don’t wait to give your dog the gift of nature, exploration, and connection with a trained dog walker who truly knows Nashville.

Laura Nelson, Owner