Cedar Hill Park Loop – Mountain Bike Trail

Cedar Hill Park Loop is a pump track-like section of singletrack that’s fairly new in Nashville. For a 3-mile loop, there are short inclines and plenty of payoffs when you eventually go downhill. It comprises a few named sections with different difficulty ratings, so you will get some variety. Most of the roots have been cleared off the trail, so all you get is singletrack and the occasional tiny rock garden. Also, it’s directional, so you’ll need to check the sign at the beginning of the trail to figure out which way to go.

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The Cedar Hill Park Loop Trailhead can be found on Nesbit Dr on the east end of Cedar Hill Lake. It’s fairly well-hidden and easy to miss, so you’ll need to drive slowly while looking for it. It should be near the playground by the lake. Once you’ve located it, you can park the car at the nearby parking lot, then head out with your bike.

The trailhead is a bit of a preview of what’s in the rest of the trail and starts with a brief descent down to the directional signage. The last time we were there, you could go clockwise on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with the rest of the days reserved for counterclockwise. This might change, so always check the sign before getting into the main part of the trail.

The trail is meant only for mountain bikers which makes sense given how fast and flowy it is. It may be hard to stop at the speeds you’ll be going if you see a hiker.

The trail has been fully cleared of roots. Also, although there are some rocks, they’re rare and don’t jut out of the singletrack as in other intermediate-level bike trails. As such, the trail is quite smooth from end to end.

You do, however, get a lot of jumps over mounds of soil distributed along the trail. While it’s technically not a pump track, it acts like one, especially if you’re going downhill. There will hardly be any need for pedaling once you get on a rolling downhill. It’s also to pick up speed.

It’s worth noting that some of the jumps are in fairly skinny sections of the trail preceding a sharp turn. As such, if you’re not careful or experienced, you may find yourself launched into the trees.

Most turns are berms, making it easier to turn at speed.

Naturally, some technical uphill climbs precede the downhills. However, the descents are so much fun making the climbs worth it.

The main section consists of the Pedal Tavern trail, which is the easiest and beginner friendly. However, if you want something more challenging, then some of the trails on the outside of the loop are much more likely to please you.

Examples include Bluegrass, an intermediate option, Showtime, Showtime Alt, and Copperhead Road, which are all slightly difficult due to the turns and ascents.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

As long as you’re on the trail, you should take a moment to appreciate the views of Cedar Hill Park and the lake. The trail is also gorgeous, ebbing and weaving through plenty of greenery.

Recommendations and Precautions

• Always pay attention to the direction of the day since it’ll save you and other trail users from potential accidents.
• The trail closes when it’s wet or muddy.
• You may want to note the sharp corners and berms before you go through the trail at full speed.