Murfreesboro has great places to walk on The Murfreesboro Post

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Murfreesboro has great places to walk

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Be a tourist in your own backyard Saturday

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By: DR. MARK KESTNER, Post Columnist

Posted: Sunday, March 3, 2013 12:00 am

Two weeks ago I mentioned a few places that are perfect for outdoor walks in Murfreesboro.

Considering that 25 years ago when I moved here the options were sparse, our great city has benefitted immensely by the development of a wide array of walking opportunities.

I mentioned the obvious Greenway, Stones River National Battlefield and Barfield Crescent Park.

I then requested suggestions from readers. I received numerous contributions for the list.

One reader mentioned that she walks on the campus of MTSU frequently.

I have walked the campus as well and it is an excellent place to enjoy a stroll.

One reader mentioned that the campus has a wide variety of mature trees and that she enjoys learning about the various species and observing them change through the seasons.

Another suggestion was the beautiful downtown area, especially East Main Street during the fall. I couldn’t agree more with that suggestion. The beautiful fall colors are nowhere more splendid than on East Main.

One reader holds The Avenue: Murfreesboro as their favorite. Even though The Avenue is a local shopping hotspot, it also serves well as a walking or strolling option; maybe even for window shopping or people watching. One advantage of The Avenue is that lunch is available from a number of great restaurants.

The newly created Gateway was suggested more than once.

For those that are not familiar, during development of the new Gateway office complexes a section of property was set aside for enjoyment by walkers. A paved pathway makes a lunchtime walk a pleasure and is easily accessible.

One reader suggested the Stones River Mall.

Although the mall would not be on my personal list if the weather allowed for an outdoor walk, for inclement weather or for those who may need climate controlled options the mall can’t be beat. Other indoor options include MTSU’s Murphy Center, Patterson Park Community Center and SportsCom.

One suggestion I had not considered was the new soccer complex on the north side of town. There are paved walkways surrounding the fields.

One little gem that is relatively unknown is Murfree Spring Wetlands adjacent to the Discovery Center. The quiet boardwalk that ambles through the 25-acre marsh provides numerous opportunities to view wildlife.

Besides the exercise you will enjoy on these walks, you will encounter scents, sounds and other sensations that will enrich your experience.

Whether it be the smells of the native flora, the sounds of leaves crunching underfoot when you leave the paved trail, or the brisk feeling of the wind in your face, you are sure to take something away from your escape that will be memorable.

If a short walk is all that you need, consider taking a tour though local history at the Cannonsburgh Pioneer Village.

There is ample room for a leisurely stroll through the collection of historic buildings that have been preserved.

Another historic site with plenty of room to roam is Fortress Rosecrans. You may be surprised at what you discover in this Civil War site.

If you have a favorite spot that I have overlooked, please let me know at mkestner@drkestner.com.

Tagged under Dr Mark Kestner, Exercise, Health Care, Living Well, Murfreesboro, Rutherford County, Walking

Member Opinions:

By: jaj4s_mtsu_spr13 on 3/6/13
Some of those are my favorite walking area, especially since most of those allow dogs. What some didn’t mention is the fact that we also have plenty of walking trails all around Murfreesboro… most are just 10 minutes away. Although some of the trails you wouldn’t be about to take a baby stroller on, they offer Tennessee beauty whether its cedar glades or wildflowers.
Flat Rock Cedar Glades and Barrens Hike Trail is a 1.4 mile loop trail located near Murfreesboro, Tennessee and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. A nice easy trail that has plenty of beautiful scenery it has a slight incline. Also a great place to take your dog, especially if you trust them off-leash. You may get lucky and have the neighbor dogs join you as well!
Barfield Wilderness Loop Trail is a 2.5 mile loop trail located near Murfreesboro, Tennessee and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The trail has a couple of rocky areas, but nothing strenuous and makes for a great escape from our hectic lives!