Green Line trail - yellow-petaled flowers
1 / 10

Green Line trail

4.8
·173 reviews·Memphis, United States

A shaded, well-maintained urban trail perfect for cycling, running, and rollerskiing, offering a refreshing escape in Memphis.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Less human traffic

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Green Line trail - yellow-petaled flowers

Green Line trail

Best Time

Early mornings

Less human traffic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A shaded, well-maintained urban trail perfect for cycling, running, and rollerskiing, offering a refreshing escape in Memphis.

4.8
(173 reviews)

"A true Memphis gem! Always feels safe, clean, and well maintained."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Safe Parking Options

Consider Howse Park near Tillman St for safe parking. Avoid street parking near the trail due to ongoing construction. :car:

⚠️ Beware of Slippery Spots

Wet areas can develop slippery biofilms, especially hazardous for rollerskiing or inline skating. :warning:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shaded Urban Oasis

Shaded Urban Oasis

Throughout the trail

Enjoy nearly 98% shade coverage, making it a perfect escape for a cool ride or walk, even on warmer days.

Tillman St to Eastern Terminus

Tillman St to Eastern Terminus

Western to Eastern end

Experience the full 22-mile round trip, passing golf courses, the Wolf River, and residential areas.

Wolf River Greenway Connection

Wolf River Greenway Connection

Eastern end

The trail now connects to the Wolf River Greenway, expanding your exploration options and natural scenery.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Parking & Access Points

Finding the right starting point is key! Some areas have limited street parking due to construction, so consider Howse Park for safe, accessible parking near the Tillman St entrance. Early mornings are busiest, so plan accordingly for your run or ride. Reddit

Trail Conditions & Etiquette

The Greenline is mostly shaded and well-maintained, but watch out for slippery biofilms on wet spots, especially when rollerskiing or inline skating. Be mindful of other users; it's a shared path! TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Less human traffic
Crowd
Medium
When
Late mornings (after 10:30 AM)
Why
Quieter, still pleasant
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Things to know when taking the L #gatekeepchicago #chicago #chicagotiktok #chicagotrain
@gatekeepchicago
17.5K likes • 163.3K views

🚗 Safe Parking Options

Consider Howse Park near Tillman St for safe parking. Avoid street parking near the trail due to ongoing construction. Reddit :car:

⚠️ Beware of Slippery Spots

Wet areas can develop slippery biofilms, especially hazardous for rollerskiing or inline skating. Reddit :warning:

reddit.com

Discovering how great the greenline is ✅️

reddit.com

Shelby Farms Greenline Access Parking

🚴‍♀️ Easy & Shaded Ride

Enjoy a mostly flat, 98% shaded trail perfect for cycling, running, or walking. Reddit :bike:

📍 Emergency Markers

Look for mile markers on the East and West ends for easy location identification in case of emergencies. :phone:

reddit.com

The Green Line Extension Community Path finally opened. The new 1.9-mile stretch runs parallel with Medford/Tufts

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Safe Parking Options

Consider Howse Park near Tillman St for safe parking. Avoid street parking near the trail due to ongoing construction. Reddit :car:

⚠️ Beware of Slippery Spots

Wet areas can develop slippery biofilms, especially hazardous for rollerskiing or inline skating. Reddit :warning:

🚴‍♀️ Easy & Shaded Ride

Enjoy a mostly flat, 98% shaded trail perfect for cycling, running, or walking. Reddit :bike:

📍 Emergency Markers

Look for mile markers on the East and West ends for easy location identification in case of emergencies. :phone:

💧 No Restrooms On Trail

Plan ahead as there are no restrooms directly on the trail. Restaurants are available in Germantown but lack sidewalks. :toilet:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(173 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Greenline trail is widely praised as a gem in Memphis, offering a safe, clean, and well-maintained environment for various activities. Visitors love the extensive shade, easy terrain, and the ongoing expansion of the trail. Some minor drawbacks include potential slippery spots after rain and a lack of restrooms directly on the path.

"One of the best rollerskiing (dryland training for Nordic, or cross-country skiing) trails in Memphis. If you hit a puddle of water, beware that these low spots can grow a significant layer of very slippery biofilm. This can be hazardous when rollerskiing or inline skating."

Fred Call

"I decided to ride on Greenline while in Memphis. I opted to start at Tillman St because closest to downtown and the beginning of trail (West). There is no parking on street near trail due to construction. I would suggest parking at Howse Park down the street. It’s very safe. I had no issues plus there are workers at nearby community center and constant traffic.
This trail is a very easy ride as there are no steep hills. What I love most is the 98% of trail is shaded. The early mornings is the busiest. The 2nd day I went around 10:30am and there was less human traffic.
If you go around 8/21/23 there will be a closure of bridge: The work, which is being performed by Shelby County Roads, Bridges and Engineering Department, is scheduled to begin the week of August 21, 2023 and will to take one to two weeks for completion.

The scenery is very nice and there are homes and apartments along the way. There are markers on East and West in case of emergency.
There are a few bumpy area were roots have damaged trail but so few really not worth mentioning.
I meant to count steer crossings, but slipped mind. I would say there is one just about every mile. There are lights for bike crossing at all except one.
There are no restrooms along trail nor at end (East). You do cross over street in Germantown and there are restaurants there but no sidewalk. Would be a good place to stop to eat.
You pass a golf course, Wolf River which is very muddy. There are looks hanging on fence on bridge, I’m not sure what that is about. I took video. There are benches periodically along the way. There is a nice rest area near Shelby County Prison with pump and waste basket.
On the East end is Cordova, TN. It seems like the historic end. I didn’t venture out because no sidewalks.
All and all this is a great trail to cycle. I read it will eventually be 26 miles. Each time I did round trip it was around 22 miles."

Dr. Rosie Ann Riley

"A true Memphis gem! Always feels safe, clean, and well maintained. And they are adding mileage to go more East which is fantastic! Great any time of year"

Elizabeth Meeks

What People Like

Shaded and cool
Safe and clean
Easy terrain

What People Dislike

Slippery spots
No restrooms on trail

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

While street parking can be tricky due to construction, Howse Park near Tillman Street is a recommended safe and accessible parking option. Reddit Some users also mention parking at Shelby Farms, but gates may not always be open early. Reddit

Yes, you can access the western end of the Greenline from Tillman Street, which is relatively close to downtown Memphis. Reddit

Public transportation options to reach the Greenline's access points would depend on your starting location in Memphis. It's advisable to check local transit routes for the closest stops to the Tillman Street or Shelby Farms entrances. TikTok

Bridge closures can occur for maintenance. For example, a bridge closure was scheduled for August 2023, taking one to two weeks. It's best to check local advisories for current closure information. Reddit

The Greenline is ideal for cycling, rollerskiing, inline skating, and running. Its shaded path makes it enjoyable for various activities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Greenline trail is a public access path and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy this free amenity! :moneywithwings:

The Greenline is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, access to parking areas like Shelby Farms may have specific gate hours. Reddit

No advance booking or tickets are required to use the Greenline trail. It's open to the public for use at any time. :calendar:

The primary restriction is to be mindful of other users and trail etiquette. Avoid hazardous practices like leaving puddles of water that can grow slippery biofilms. Reddit

Yes, Shelby Farms offers bicycle rentals at a reasonable price, making it easy to enjoy the trail even if you don't bring your own bike. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Greenline trail is known for its easy, mostly flat terrain with very few steep hills, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Reddit

Many users report feeling safe on the Greenline, noting it's clean, well-maintained, and has regular traffic, especially during peak hours. Reddit

There are no restrooms directly on the trail itself. You'll need to plan stops accordingly, perhaps in Germantown where restaurants are located, though sidewalks are limited. Reddit

You'll experience a mix of urban and natural beauty, including shaded paths, passing by homes, apartments, a golf course, and the Wolf River. Reddit

The current Greenline is approximately 22 miles round trip, with plans to extend it further east to eventually reach 26 miles. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there are no direct facilities on the trail, you can find restaurants in Germantown as you cross into the area. However, be aware that sidewalks are limited there. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is recommended, especially for longer rides or runs. There are benches and rest areas along the trail. Reddit

There are benches and rest areas periodically along the trail, which can serve as informal spots for a snack or break. A dedicated rest area with a pump and waste basket is noted near the Shelby County Prison. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the lush, shaded canopy, the scenic views of the Wolf River, and the unique 'looks' hanging on the bridge fence for interesting shots. Reddit

Yes, it's generally safe to stop and take photos, especially at the designated rest areas or benches. Be mindful of other trail users when pausing. Reddit

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. The shaded sections provide consistent lighting throughout the day. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Greenline trail is a fantastic option for families looking for a safe and engaging outdoor activity. Its mostly flat and shaded terrain makes it easy for children to navigate, whether they're walking, biking, or scooting. Reddit The length of the trail can be adjusted to suit younger legs, and the visual variety of scenery keeps things interesting. Reddit

Key recommendations include bringing plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Reddit Consider renting bikes from Shelby Farms for an added adventure. Reddit The presence of emergency markers can offer peace of mind for parents. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Runners

For cyclists and runners, the Greenline trail offers a well-maintained, predominantly shaded path perfect for training or leisure rides. The 22-mile round trip provides a substantial distance for endurance activities, with plans for further expansion. Reddit The smooth, mostly flat surface is ideal for maintaining pace and minimizing impact. Reddit

Tips for cyclists and runners include being aware of potential slippery spots on wet surfaces, especially for rollerskiers. Reddit Early mornings are recommended for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Reddit The trail's connection to the Wolf River Greenway also offers opportunities for longer, more varied routes. Reddit

🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts

Nature lovers will appreciate the Greenline's blend of urban accessibility and natural beauty. While it's an urban trail, it offers glimpses of the Wolf River and passes through areas with mature trees, providing a welcome canopy of shade. Reddit Keep an eye out for the unique 'looks' hanging on the bridge fence – a curious detail for those who enjoy observing local quirks. Reddit

For nature enthusiasts, the trail's connection to the Wolf River Greenway is a significant draw, expanding the potential for wildlife spotting and enjoying riparian landscapes. Reddit The periodic benches offer quiet spots to pause and soak in the surroundings. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Greenline Trail Experience

The Greenline trail in Memphis is a beloved urban pathway, offering a refreshing escape with its extensive shade and well-maintained surface. Spanning approximately 22 miles round trip, with ongoing extensions planned, it provides ample space for cycling, running, and rollerskiing. Reddit The trail is noted for its gentle, mostly flat terrain, making it accessible for users of all fitness levels. Reddit Many visitors appreciate the sense of safety and the clean environment, making it a 'true Memphis gem.' Reddit

Key features include nearly 98% shade coverage, offering a comfortable experience even on warm days. You'll pass by diverse scenery, from residential areas and golf courses to the muddy Wolf River. Reddit Emergency markers are placed along the route for easy identification. Reddit While there are no restrooms directly on the trail, there are periodic benches and rest areas, including one with a pump and waste basket near the Shelby County Prison. Reddit

Community insights highlight the importance of being aware of potential hazards like slippery biofilms on wet spots, which can be particularly tricky for rollerskiers and inline skaters. Reddit The trail's connection to the Wolf River Greenway further enhances its appeal, opening up more exploration opportunities. Reddit

Navigating Parking and Access

Accessing the Greenline trail requires some planning, especially regarding parking. While the trail itself is free and open, finding convenient and safe parking can be a consideration for visitors. Reddit Some users have noted that street parking near certain access points can be limited due to ongoing construction. Reddit

A frequently recommended parking spot is Howse Park, located down the street from the Tillman Street entrance. This area is described as very safe, with consistent traffic and nearby community center workers, making it a reliable choice for those starting from the west end. Reddit For those looking to access the eastern end, the historic end in Cordova, TN, is mentioned, though venturing out might be less convenient due to a lack of sidewalks. Reddit

It's also worth noting that access to areas like Shelby Farms may have specific gate hours, so early morning visitors should confirm availability. TikTokReddit Planning your entry point based on your intended route and time of day can significantly enhance your Greenline experience.

You may also like

1 of 2