Marcella Vivrette Smith Park

Blue Loop

Location: Brentwood, TN

Length: 2.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Hours of operation: Dawn to dusk

History: The historic and beautiful Ravenwood mansion is located on the property of Marcella Vivrette Smith Park. The mansion was acquired in 1825 by James Hazard Wilson II and named in honor of his best man, Sam Houston, who was known as “the Raven". Brentwood acquired 320 acres from the Marcella family and Reese Smith in 2010. In 2013, 80 more acres were obtained and the park officially opened to the public fall of 2014. In 2017, the park expanded adding more trails for the public to enjoy! Click here for more history.

Ravenwood Mansion (not the best quality, but it was closed for a wedding)

About: This is a perfect little hike nestled in Brentwood, TN, between Nashville and Franklin. There are a few different trails to choose from. We took the blue trail. The trail was extremely well marked, so even the most directionally challenged can make it without getting lost! ;)

It was an easy hike with some hills and a diverse scenery from feeling like you are in the forest to walking through an open field. It is a good place to walk or run. There were people around and many people walking their dogs. It was a perfect weather on a weekend afternoon, so it was busy, but not overly crowded. There are historic buildings near the trailhead and a cute, little pond. Not only is this a good place to hike, but a great place to take pictures. The trail was a bit muddy. At the trailhead, there is a station to wipe the mud off your shoes.

The pond

The mud wipe off station

The barn

If you are in the Nashville/Franklin area, you should definitely check out this little hike! It’s a great escape into nature without having to travel far.

Hop on the “kara-van” and let’s take the adventurous route!

~Kara Renee’