Wolf River Greenway: Memphis's Hidden Riverside Gem

Following the Wolf River Through East Memphis

While the Shelby Farms Greenway gets most of the attention, Memphis cyclists in the know treasure the Wolf River Greenway for something equally special: a sense of natural escape that feels miles removed from the urban landscape even when you're riding through the middle of East Memphis and Germantown.

The Trail Experience

The Wolf River Greenway follows the gentle curves of its namesake river through wetlands, floodplain forest, and residential neighborhoods. The paved path is smooth and flat, with multiple access points that make it easy to hop on for a quick ride or link it into a longer route. Wildlife is the star of the show here — patient cyclists regularly spot great blue herons fishing in the shallows, wood ducks nesting in riverside trees, and the occasional river otter.

Connecting Trails

One of the most exciting aspects of the Wolf River Greenway is how it connects to other Memphis trails. At the eastern end, it links up with Shelby Farms Park and the Shelby Farms Greenway. Ambitious cyclists can piece together a 20+ mile loop using the Wolf River, Shelby Farms, and Memphis Greenline trails — a genuinely impressive urban cycling achievement.

Practical Information

The trail is accessible year-round, though seasonal flooding can temporarily close lower sections near the river. Always check local trail conditions after significant rainfall. Multiple parking areas are available along the route. The trail is dog-friendly and welcomes both cyclists and pedestrians.