Henry Hollow Loop Hiking Guide
Beaman Park feels like it belongs an hour further out of Nashville than it does. Tucked into the Highland Rim hills near Joelton, its hollows are steep and narrow, its creeks run over flat slate, and its forest has the quiet of land that was never developed. The Henry Hollow Loop is the best introduction: two miles that start beside Henry Creek and climb to the ridge before dropping back.
The Loop
Metro Parks lists the Henry Hollow Loop at 2 miles; mapping sources put the gain around 250 feet. From the Creekside Trailhead on Little Marrowbone Road, the trail follows slate-bottomed Henry Creek up the hollow, then climbs roughly 200 feet to the ridgetop before descending to close the loop. It is short, but the climb is steep enough that the moderate rating is fair.
Why Beaman Is Different
Beaman Park sits on the edge of the Western Highland Rim, and its landscape of narrow hollows and ridges is unlike the rolling Nashville Basin to the south. Parts of it were designated a state natural area in 2013, protecting Highland Rim barrens and stands of shortleaf pine. The park has three trailheads — Creekside, Highland at the ridgetop, and the Nature Center on Old Hickory Boulevard — and longer options such as the 12.5-mile Laurel Woods Trail.
Creek Crossings and High Water
Metro Parks warns hikers to watch for high water in low areas, and Henry Creek rises quickly after heavy rain. If you approach from the Nature Center trailhead rather than Creekside, you will need to cross Henry Creek to reach the loop. After storms, the Creekside start avoids that crossing. The slate creek bed is attractive and very slippery when wet.
Seasons
Spring is the best time, when the creek is running, wildflowers line the hollow and the canopy is just leafing out. Autumn colour on the ridges is excellent. Summer is humid and buggy in the hollow, and the creek can drop to a trickle. Beaman is open from dawn to dusk year-round.
Practicalities
Entry and parking are free. Dogs are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet. Beaman is about 30 minutes north of downtown Nashville, and the roads out to it are narrow and winding. There is no water on the trail. Ticks are common in warm months, so check yourself and your dog afterwards.
Hiking tips for Henry Hollow Loop
- Start from the Creekside Trailhead after rain to avoid crossing Henry Creek from the Nature Center side.
- Watch your footing on the flat slate in and along the creek — it is very slick when wet.
- Come in spring for the best creek flow and wildflowers in the hollow.
- Keep dogs on a six-foot leash, per Metro Parks rules.
- Check for ticks afterwards; the hollow is prime habitat in warm months.
Nearby trails to explore
- Mossy Ridge Trail
- Radnor Lake Trail
- Narrows of the Harpeth Bluff Trail
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Henry Hollow is a quiet escape on the edge of Nashville, and a good short hike to try with new partners. Use TrailMates to find Nashville hikers exploring Beaman Park. Download the TrailMates app to connect.