Memphis Bike Trails
Explore the best Memphis bike trails for scenic greenway rides, family outings, off-road adventures, and paved paths through world-class parks. Use this guide to find where to ride in Memphis and discover the trails that match your style.
Why Memphis is a Great City for Cycling
Memphis sits on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, and that geography has shaped a surprisingly rich cycling landscape. From the massive Shelby Farms Park — one of the largest urban parks in the United States — to the winding singletrack of Lick Creek and the riverfront paths of the Mississippi River Trail, Memphis offers something for every type of rider.
What makes Memphis cycling special is accessibility. The terrain is relatively flat to gently rolling, making trails approachable for beginners while still rewarding experienced riders with long greenways and challenging off-road sections. The city has invested heavily in its trail network over the past decade, connecting neighborhoods with paved greenways that let you ride for miles without encountering traffic.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely family ride along Patriot Lake, a technical mountain bike session in the hardwood forests of Germantown, or a scenic riverside commute through Downtown, Memphis has a trail that fits. Use the filters above to find the perfect route for your next ride.
Best Bike Trails in Memphis
Best Bike Trails in Memphis for Every Ride Style
For Beginners and Families
If you're new to cycling or riding with kids, start with the Shelby Farms Greenway. Its 10+ miles of flat, paved path through one of America's largest urban parks is as beginner-friendly as it gets. The Memphis Greenline is another excellent choice — a converted rail trail that's flat, car-free, and lined with interesting neighborhoods. The Overton Park Loop offers a compact 2.5-mile circuit perfect for a quick family spin through a historic Midtown park.
For Road and Commuter Cyclists
Road riders gravitate toward the paved greenway network, where you can string together 20+ miles of car-free riding by combining the Wolf River Greenway, Shelby Farms Greenway, and Memphis Greenline. The Mississippi River Trail through Downtown offers a scenic, flat riverside ride that doubles as a fantastic commuter route for those working in the city center.
For Mountain Bikers
Memphis's off-road crown jewel is the Lick Creek Trail System in Germantown — 10+ miles of hand-built singletrack through dense hardwood forest with flowing berms, natural obstacles, and loops for every skill level. Shelby Farms Park MTB Trails offer a pump track and flow trails perfect for building skills close to the city center.
For Scenic and Sightseeing Rides
The Big River Crossing on the Harahan Bridge is a must-do — the longest pedestrian-bicycle bridge over the Mississippi River, offering breathtaking views from the center of the river itself. The Mississippi River Trail through Tom Lee Park delivers iconic bluff-top views and passes through the cultural heart of Downtown Memphis.
Types of Memphis Bike Trails to Explore
Safety Tips
Always wear a helmet and use front and rear lights, especially in low light. Memphis drivers are generally courteous to cyclists, but stay alert on busier roads. Ride predictably, signal your turns, and follow traffic laws. On shared greenways, announce yourself when passing pedestrians. Carry a basic repair kit (tube, pump, multi-tool) and a fully charged phone. Summer heat in Memphis is intense — carry plenty of water and know your limits.
Weather Considerations
Memphis has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers (90°F+ in July) and mild winters. Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons for cycling. In summer, start early morning to beat the heat. After heavy rain, riverside trails near the Mississippi and Wolf River can flood — always check trail conditions before heading out. Winter riding is very doable with proper layers, as snow and ice are rare.
Terrain Type
Memphis terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling, sitting on the bluffs above the Mississippi River. Paved greenways are smooth and well-maintained. Mountain bike trails at Lick Creek and Shelby Farms feature natural-surface singletrack through hardwood forests with roots, rocks, and banked turns. Gravel and mixed-surface options are limited but growing as the trail network expands.
What to Know Before Riding in Memphis
Check Trail Conditions First
Memphis trails can be affected by weather. After heavy rain, riverside trails near the Mississippi and Wolf River can flood, and natural-surface mountain bike trails at Lick Creek may be closed to prevent damage. Check our trail condition reports (linked on each trail page) before you go, especially in spring when rain is frequent.
Plan for the Heat
If you're riding between May and September, plan around the heat. Start before 9am when possible, carry at least 32oz of water per hour of riding, and choose shaded routes like Lick Creek or the Wolf River Greenway on the hottest days. Sunscreen is essential — the Memphis sun is relentless, even on cloudy days.
Bring the Right Gear
For paved greenways, any hybrid or road bike works well. For Lick Creek and the Shelby Farms MTB trails, a mountain bike with appropriate tires is strongly recommended. Always carry a spare tube, mini-pump, and basic tools. Bike shops like Peddler Bike Shop and Outdoors Inc. can set you up with everything you need and provide local trail advice.
Know Where to Park
Most Memphis trailheads have free parking, but popular spots like Shelby Farms Greenway can fill up on weekend mornings. Arrive early on weekends, or consider weekday rides for a quieter experience. The Memphis Greenline has multiple access points, so you can start your ride from a less crowded section.
How to Choose the Right Memphis Bike Trail
Match the Trail to Your Skill Level
Beginners should start with paved, flat greenways — the Shelby Farms Greenway and Memphis Greenline are ideal first rides. They're smooth, well-marked, and populated enough to feel safe. Intermediate riders can explore the full greenway network or try the flowing singletrack at Shelby Farms MTB Trails. Advanced mountain bikers will find their challenge at Lick Creek Trail System.
Consider Your Time and Distance
Short on time? The Overton Park Loop is a quick 2.5-mile circuit in Midtown. Want a half-day adventure? Combine the Wolf River Greenway with Shelby Farms Greenway for a 20+ mile ride. The Big River Crossing is perfect for a unique 2-mile out-and-back experience across the Mississippi River.
Think About Surface Preference
If you prefer smooth paved paths, stick to the greenways and the Memphis Greenline. If you love dirt and singletrack, head to Lick Creek or the Shelby Farms MTB trails. Mixed-surface riders can link paved greenways with short gravel connectors for a varied experience.
Factor in Scenery and Experience
Want river views? The Mississippi River Trail and Big River Crossing deliver. Looking for forest immersion? Lick Creek and the Wolf River Greenway wind through dense canopy. Want an iconic Memphis experience? Ride the Big River Crossing — there's nothing else like it in the region.
Other Memphis.Bike Resources
Find Bike Shops Near Trails
Need to rent a bike, get a quick repair, or grab gear? Check out our guide to the best bike shops in Memphis.
Join a Group Ride
Want to explore trails with other cyclists? Connect with local riders through our Memphis cycling group rides directory.
Plan Your Next Route
Use our AI-powered Route Planner to map your perfect Memphis ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best beginner-friendly bike trails in Memphis?
The Shelby Farms Greenway and the Memphis Greenline are the best beginner trails. Both are flat, paved, well-marked, and safe. Shelby Farms offers 10+ miles through one of America's largest urban parks, while the Memphis Greenline is a converted rail trail connecting Midtown to East Memphis. The Overton Park Loop is also great for a quick, easy ride.
Are there mountain bike trails in Memphis?
Yes! The Lick Creek Trail System in Germantown is Memphis's premier mountain biking destination, with 10+ miles of hand-built singletrack through hardwood forest. Shelby Farms Park also has MTB trails including a pump track and flow trails suitable for beginners. Both are maintained by dedicated local trail volunteers.
Can I bike across the Mississippi River in Memphis?
Yes! The Big River Crossing on the historic Harahan Bridge is the longest pedestrian-bicycle bridge over the Mississippi River. It connects Downtown Memphis to West Memphis, Arkansas, and offers stunning views from the center of the river. The 2-mile out-and-back ride is free and open daily — it's a bucket-list cycling experience unique to Memphis.