Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail

The Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail, located just outside of Ashland City, provides an opportunity for hikers and bikers to explore a beautiful stretch of land without working up too much of a sweat. The easy and (mostly) flat trail begins at Mark’s Creek Trailhead just off Chapmansboro Road. The trail here is paved and great for casual bicyclists. Along this stretch you’ll pass several small signs informing users of the many different species of flora in the area. During certain times of the year you may even see a few small waterfalls flowing off the embankment to the right of the trail.

Just over a mile in you’ll come to a “comfort station.” Here there are restrooms, shaded picnic spots, and small flower gardens. Continuing on you’ll cross over the first of several bridges. You may notice that these bridges look like old railroad trestle bridges, and you’re correct! The Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail follows a stretch of the old Tennessee Central Railway. This railroad was relatively small and frequently overshadowed by several other larger lines in the area. Facing financial difficulties, Tennessee Central suspended service on the line in the late 1960s. It was briefly sold to another railroad and operated for about a decade before being abandoned in the 1980s.

As you continue along this pathway that follows the historic railway you’ll cross several more impressive bridges and begin to gain a glimpse of the Cumberland River on your left. Around the 4 mile mark the trail reaches Eagle Pass Trailhead and turns to gravel. From here it is just shy of 3 miles to the end of the trail. You’ll pass by some impressive limestone bluffs and get closer to the shores of the Cumberland River before arriving at Lock A Campground. This marks the end of the trail - return the way you came.