Barfield Backcountry Hike

Join TennGreen staff member Nichole Hidalgo Jordan for a scenic 5-mile hike through Barfield’s backcountry wilderness, where we’ll explore the rugged karst terrain of Middle Tennessee. This journey will take us past impressive rock formations, large sinkholes, and deep natural trenches, offering a glimpse into the region’s unique geology. Our route will begin on the Rocky Path Trail, winding through rocky terrain before looping onto the Valley View Trail, where we’ll gain elevation and enjoy sweeping views. We’ll then transition onto the newly constructed Oakwood Trail, experiencing a shift to a more open grassland habitat, before reconnecting with Rocky Path for a picturesque finish along the West Fork of the Stones River.

Nichole has spent many years on these trails and can point out a good portion of the local flora and fauna, along with historical and colloquial stories of the land surrounding Murfreesboro.

Please wear weather-appropriate attire and closed-toed shoes. These trails have a tendency to become muddy in the spring. Bring water, snacks and/or lunch. We will stop at about mile four to enjoy lunch near the overlook at the Stones River.

The Wilderness Station is a quaint nature center and visitors will enjoy meeting their wonderful education animals including reptiles, amphibians, birds of prey, and mammals.

This hike will be of Moderate Difficulty due to distance, some rocky terrain and slight elevation gain.

This is a great opportunity to log some of your miles as part of the fifth annual Hike-a-Thon! This virtually-managed fundraising event is unlike any other in the Southeast, allowing participants to enjoy the outdoors from anywhere while raising funds and awareness to protect the lands they love.

Registration is free, and there’s something for everyone. Competitions are held for all levels of hikers, paddlers, trail runners, climbers, mountain bikers, and more. The adventure portion of the event starts April 1, though participants may start fundraising as soon as they’re registered.

For more information and to register, visit hikeathon.com.

https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/tennessee/barfield-crescent-park

Host or Publisher TennGreen Land Conservancy