First off, this is an awesome trail. It is completely paved and is shaded for roughly about 2/3 of the whole 2.5 mile loop. Incredible scenery, loved the bridges over the creek, and it was full of spectacular nature, plus it was challenging from the rolling and steep inclines and descents within. It was also nice that there was a playground and restrooms with close parking to the trail head. Plus, one might think it’s not long enough, but trust me- it was a workout! However, there are a few concerns one needs to be mindful of. Much of the trail is cracked or buckled from tree roots growing under the pavement which made for a VERY rough ride on some parts. Also mud,debris, and other hazards like fallen tree limbs will likely be encountered, so pay attention. You will want to use a mountain bike or at least a bike with thicker wheels. On the day we were there, I was pulling a toddler trailer with my youngest son in the back. He giggled at first because of the “bumps” but started to not like them eventually. Make sure if you are pulling a trailer that you have descent ground clearance, and no other items except maybe a water bottle because your children will be “bounced” a lot. Plus, you will want hand breaks and the ability to shift gears...some of the hills are very steep and to maintain control you will likely have to “ride the brake” and shift gears frequently. My wife and oldest son ride bikes that are traditional pedal brake bikes which made the trail less fun for them on a few of the slopes and those occasional sharp turns. But they both enjoyed the trail, and just adapted. There was also a section of this trail that was “slanted” or leaning toward a cliff edge. This made me a little nervous as a parent with the trailer and also having my other young child riding his bike there as well because the trail is narrow. But we didn’t have any issues. Also, a significant portion of this trail runs through a golf course. There are “cart crossings”....and greens that are adjacent or connect to the trail....be mindful of this possible hazard if the golf course is busy. At one point a cart was parked next to the bike trial and they were searching for a ball. Minor thing, but with the turns and blind spots, had I been riding fast, there might have been an accident. And of course, having my family with me, made me perhaps a little anxious about the potential reality of someone getting hit by a golf ball. In short, it was a great trail, but it rode more like a mountain bike path than a paved trail. It is family friendly but not family “easy.” So use caution with the above mentioned concerns. Would I take my family there again, sure.....like I said....awesome trail...just be aware of the unique conditions so it is an enjoyable experience for all. FYI....we rode the whole trail twice that day....had a picnic between..... With an additional ride back down to the creek because my oldest son wanted to and my youngest fell asleep in the trailer and napped on the way....even with the bumps...so they can be navigated and not be too cumbersome. In short, pay attention and enjoy this little gem of bike trail at Barren River State park.

this is my favorite kind of trail, being more of a road cyclist. not a super technical mtb challenge, just rolling hills, good compacted gravel surface, lots of trees... all kinds of birds on this trail. saw a gold finch, bluebirds, and one big turkey that took off in front of me on a straightaway and stayed on the path, airborne, leading the way for quite a bit. there was one small tree across the trail today, but it looked very recent and i didn’t need to dismount to go around. the trail does zig zag across the highway a few times, but you have unobstructed views upon approach and traffic was not heavy. there are easily visible caution posts at all these crossings, so nothing jumps up on you. great experience.

great views and seclusion. i saw a deer drinking water just off the trail. the only drawback on this trail is lots of buckling from roots in the asphalt. otherwise, this is a great ride through the woods.

The trail is down hill one way and uphill coming back. Save energy for the ride home. Beautiful scenery and you get some level ground where there are traverses. And the campground is great!

saw some wild turkeys, beavers, an oriole, and other wildlife. pavement in great shape. nice and wide to accommodate walkers/joggers/cyclists. the maintenance crew was out cutting the grass today too, keeping it well kept up. nice little trail. wish we had more like it around south central KY.

I am an avid trail bicycle rider and this is my favorite for middle Tennessee. Not too long but very well laid out and maintained. This coupled with the really nice park that joins it makes a wonderful public space with something for everyone.

This trail can be use by most anyone. It provides a wide variety of scenery and activities including creek (no swimming), playground, corn (when in season), pond, ducks, and much more. The trail is wide allowing easy passage. It is kept clean. There are several stopping points to meet your needs and several different parking accesses as well as trash cans. There is also a dog park at the Garner Street Park access which allows your dog to run free in a large fenced area. Please always, in the dog park and on the trail, clean up after yourself and your dog. Thank you.

I rode the trail 12/06/18 and it’s a great ride even at 40 degree temperatures.

Agree with previous reviews. Probably would have been better with mountain bike. Managed with hybrids. Beautiful and shaded. Rode from Zion Cemetery Rd to visitors center and return. Trail in great shape for most part, some loose gravel and sand made for moments of white knuckle ride.