Memphis, known for its music and BBQ, is also a gateway to unique outdoor adventures. Explore trails and parks, paddle the Mississippi, or fish on local lakes. A vibrant outdoor scene awaits.
Memphis, known for its music and BBQ, is also a gateway to unique outdoor adventures. Explore trails and parks, paddle the Mississippi, or fish on local lakes. A vibrant outdoor scene awaits.
Exploring Outdoor Adventures in Memphis, Tennessee
As the birthplace of blues and home to unbeatable barbecue, Memphis is also an unexpected outdoor playground. Here's what you can discover:
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Memphis, Tennessee special.
★ 7.5⌖ 3.59 milesExplore Old Forest State Natural Area in Memphis, TN, a peaceful urban forest with diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy hiking and birdwatching on winding wooded trails. Best visited in spring and fall for ideal conditions. Moderate crowd levels make it a relaxing retreat.
★ 6.3⌖ 13.41 milesExplore Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park in Millington, TN, featuring over 13,000 acres of trails for all skill levels. Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing, this serene park offers picturesque views of the Mississippi River. Best visited in spring or fall.
★ 7.8⌖ 42.05 milesExplore the Whiteface Mountain Cross-Country Biking Trails near Lake Placid, NY. Offering a variety of routes, it's perfect for adventure seekers of all levels. Enjoy breathtaking Adirondack views and challenging terrains, especially during spring and fall.
★ 7.8⌖ 42.05 milesExplore Pitchoff Mountain near Lake Placid, NY, ideal for climbing enthusiasts. Best visited in spring and fall, this accessible climbing area offers routes for various skill levels with stunning views and adventurous vibes.
★ 7.2⌖ 47.30 milesVisit Wall Doxey State Park near Holly Springs, MS, featuring Spring Lake for camping, hiking, and fishing. Enjoy a peaceful retreat with trails, wildlife watching, and picnicking by the serene water. Best in spring and fall for mild weather and colorful foliage.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Memphis, Tennessee, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Memphis, Tennessee.
⌖ 0.0 miA one‑hour, two‑person ATV rental operated by Backwoodz ATV Rentals and Attractions LLC; this guide lays out age rules, what to bring, meeting logistics and what to expect on the trails.
⌖ 0.0 miA narrated 2.5‑hour downtown Memphis tour (departures 9:30am and 2pm) that threads Beale Street, the Lorraine Hotel, Victorian Village, A Schwab general store, the Peabody Hotel and Sun Studio.
⌖ 0.0 miA guided, 4.5‑hour city tour that brings you into Sun Studio—the recording room where Elvis, Johnny Cash and others cut historic tracks—and into the stories behind the music.
⌖ 0.0 miA transport-only, approximately 4.5-hour tour departing at 10am that links Sun Studio, the Stax Museum and the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum—this guide explains what you’ll see and the booking essentials.
A customizable private tour of Memphis for groups up to 10, offering tailored stops and professional guides over 2.5–6.5 hours.
⌖ 0.0 miA guided twilight bus tour that visits Beale Street crime scenes, houses tied to infamous figures, and ends with a signature cocktail at the Moxy Hotel—useful for travelers who want a grounded, local-led look at Memphis’s shadowy past.
⌖ 0.0 miA guided walking tour of downtown Memphis that walks roughly 1.5 miles through Court Square, Fourth Bluff Park and the Cotton Museum and times its return with the Peabody Hotel’s March of the Ducks.
⌖ 0.0 miA 15-minute, operator-run session in Memphis where one participant breaks 15 small items and one medium item while using mandated safety gear and optional disposable equipment.
⌖ 0.0 miA one-hour, live photo-and-narration presentation that guides groups through Memphis’s African American history—useful for educators, congregations, and workplace groups planning remote programming.
⌖ 0.0 miA concise guide to seeing Downtown Memphis landmarks by horse-drawn carriage, covering routes from Beale Street and North Main to the Mississippi Riverbanks and the National Civil Rights Museum.
⌖ 0.2 miA one‑hour, private guided ride operated by Shelby Farms Stables in Memphis—scheduled as the last outing of the day and priced at $125 per person, ideal for a romantic date or special occasion.
⌖ 0.2 miA tailored on‑property photo or video session with a selection of horses, staff assistance, and choices of saddle and coat color — a practical guide to planning and executing the shoot.
⌖ 0.2 miA narrated, approximately 7-hour city tour that threads Memphis’s music landmarks and riverfront scenes — a single-day primer led by the city’s top guide.
A lively, 90-minute Beale Street–led bus tour with live performances, storytelling, and close views of Sun Studio, Beale Street, the Mississippi River and the Lorraine Motel.
⌖ 0.7 miA guided, all-inclusive 2–3 hour outing that visits the Lorraine Motel, samples Central BBQ, and threads downtown landmarks with an optional museum add-on.
Make the most of your visit to Memphis, Tennessee with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Memphis, Tennessee hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Memphis, Tennessee during the iconic Memphis in May Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Memphis, Tennessee during the iconic World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Memphis, Tennessee during the iconic St. Jude Memphis Marathon. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Memphis, Tennessee is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
Check the river levels before paddling on the Mississippi.
Spring and fall offer optimal weather for outdoor activities.
Public parks offer free access to numerous trails and activities.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Memphis, Tennessee. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.
