Written by your favorite four-legged explorer, Gunny
There was no sun. No crowds. No pressure to look cute for the camera. Just me, my human, and a big stretch of woods filled with rocks, roots, and mystery smells. Perfection.
This week’s hike took us to Barfield Crescent Park in Murfreesboro, TN. It’s a quiet spot with a nature center up front, some gardens to sniff around, and trails that go from paved to rugged in no time flat.
The first few steps are smooth pavement, but then you hit the rocks and the trail splits. My advice: go left. That side gives you the steeper terrain up front, so you’re climbing and jumping early before reaching the water. Trust me, it’s the better way to burn energy.
The first stretch is about a mile and a half of roots, rocks, tight gaps, and uneven climbs. It’s the kind of trail where paws and shoes really work. And that’s where it happened. The big moment.
We reached a split in the rock. A deep one. I hesitated. Looked at my human. He jumped. I stared. He jumped again. Then I backed up, ran, and took the leap. I flew like a flying chicken nugget with ears. For a moment, I felt like the forest opened up and said, “You got this.”
After that, I was unstoppable. I bounced through the trail like a pro, even as the brush got a little thick and the poison ivy started giving my human side-eye. We stopped for water, thanks to the Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack, which holds snacks, water, treats, towels, and anything else I insist we carry on hikes.
Eventually, the trail opened up into the river area. Cool rapids. Smooth rocks. Enough splash space for a quick rinse and paw soak. I walked right into the stream like I owned the place.
We lingered there a while, then made our way back along a smoother trail that looped us into calmer terrain. The whole hike was about five miles and felt just right. Enough challenge to stay interesting, but quiet enough that I could go off-leash for most of it.
We ended the day with muddy shoes, wet paws, and a well-earned nap spot in the back of the car. I curled up on my throne while my human admired his filthy sneakers and drank warm water out of a crumpled bottle. Classic.
Trail Tips from a Flying Spaniel
- Head left when the trail splits. The rocks are fun and the flow feels better.
- Bring towels and water. And don’t skimp on your gear. We use the Osprey Daylite Plus and it keeps everything organized.
- Keep an eye out for poison ivy. Ticks too. Brush can get thick in spots.
- Take your time on the jump sections. Encourage your pup and celebrate the leap.
- Save energy for the water at the end. It’s worth it.
Barfield Crescent Park is in Murfreesboro, TN, just southeast of Nashville. It features a mix of paved and natural trails through wooded terrain.
Yes, dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed. There are waste bins along the main loop.
The main loop is about 1.5 miles with options to extend using connector trails. Terrain varies from flat to gently rolling.
Absolutely—there are easy sections for walkers and families, with benches and signage throughout the park.
Until the next flight
Gunny 🐾
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