Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
244.00 ft (74.37 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
2.90 mi (4.67 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

This loop combines the two longest trails in Bledsoe Creek State Park, the High Ridge and Shoreline Trail. Begin your adventure at the visitor center, the first building you’ll see upon entering the park. After parking, cross the road and head toward the “trailhead begins here” sign. From this point on, the trail is pretty straightforward. There are a few spur trails here and there, but it is usually easy to tell which path is the main trail.

Assuming you’re heading in a clockwise loop, the High Ridge Trail will meander through the woods for a while before losing elevation and arriving at Old Hickory Lake. At this point you’re now following the Shoreline Trail. Continue on and you’ll pass a boat ramp, campground, and a few nice picnic/break areas. The trail tread briefly turns to pavement after leaving the lake - from here it won’t be much further before you are back at the visitor center. 

Wildlife is abundant on this hike. Larger game such as deer and turkeys roam the park and aren’t very shy. Birding is popular here as well - duck, geese, heron, warbler, and egrets are just a few of the birds that call Bledsoe Creek home. 

Camping is readily available at the Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground. A day-use area is also nearby.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Fall
Summer

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Enjoyable short hike. Other activities nearby such as fishing and camping.

Cons

Trail goes right behind people's campsites for a while.

Trailhead Elevation

492.00 ft (149.96 m)

Highest point

623.00 ft (189.89 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Wildlife
Fishing
Family friendly
Flushing toilets
Bird watching
Big Game Watching

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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