Warner Red, White + Blue Loop (Freedom Loop)

The Red, White and Blue Loop (also appropriately known as the Freedom Loop) combines the three main trails in Percy & Edwin Warner Park to create a fantastic 11.5 mile triple-lollipop-loop of sorts. This loop is especially popular with trail runners training for ultras, and offers the opportunity to get in a great workout without driving too far from Nashville.

Although there are multiple trailheads at which you can begin this hike, I’d suggest parking and starting at the end of Belle Meade Boulevard. From here, follow the impressive historic steps (known as the Allée) up to the Warner Woods Trail (White Trail), and take a right. Follow this well worn trail as it meanders alongside a small, often dry stream, heads up a few small hills, and eventually comes to a junction. Take a right and follow this short connector trail (signs for parking area) until you reach the Mossy Ridge Trail (Red Trail). Continue counterclockwise and you’ll soon come to a short turnoff to a quiet area. This is an enjoyable place to take a rest, and is indeed quiet. Continue along past dripping springs, up a short but steep climb and eventually arrive at the Candy Cane Connector Trail. Follow this trail for a mile into Edwin Warner Park. Along the way you’ll cross Old Hickory Boulevard. The last leg of this loop is along the Harpeth Woods Trail (Blue Trail). Arguably the most scenic stretch, you’ll follow alongside a stream for a short distance before taking a left and gaining elevation. The Warner Park Nature Center is also in this area and can be reached by a short side trail. There are restrooms and water at the Nature Center.

Continue forward through the woods and along the Harpeth Woods (Blue) Trail until you return to the junction. Then retrace your steps along the Cane Connector Trail until it connects again with the Mossy Ridge (Red) Trail. Pick up where you left off here by continuing counterclockwise until you again reach the short connector trail (signs to parking area) that’ll lead you back to the Warner Woods (White) Trail. Continue counterclockwise until you reach the Allée and the end of your journey. While these details may sound a bit confusing in writing, this loop is pretty straightforward and easy to follow in person.