Montgomery: Trails, River and History

Montgomery brings together natural areas and trails with several clearly defined historic sites and cultural offerings. At Fort Defiance, the landscape meets a specific historical setting: the site sits on a 200-foot-high rocky bluff above the confluence of the Red River and Cumberland River. This gives you different options when planning your trip—outdoor activities, regional history, or a program of theater, museums and events. Consider which of these experiences matter most for your stay; this can help you choose a suitable hotel base in Montgomery.

Comparing Nature and Trails

Dunbar Cave is a 144-acre natural area in Montgomery County. Rotary Park spans more than 111 acres and offers scenic trails, natural areas and opportunities for outdoor activities. The two places have different focuses: Dunbar Cave centers on its natural area, while Rotary Park expressly combines trails and outdoor activities. Along with the other trails, they offer several ways to spend time outdoors during your stay.

The 9-mile Clarksville Greenway is a fully paved trail along a former railroad corridor. Along the way are streams, rocky bluffs, native wildflowers and trees, a scenic bridge and sweeping views. The trail is suitable for cycling, skating, running and walking. By contrast, the two-mile RiverWalk follows the Cumberland River and connects downtown with the river. Kayaking, canoeing, boating, water skiing and tubing are also possible on the Cumberland River.

History in Buildings and Outdoors

Fort Defiance sits above the confluence of the Red River and Cumberland River. Its outer earthworks, powder magazine and gun platforms are still clearly visible. Fort Defiance Civil War Park and Interpretive Center offers free group tours and excursions. The L&N Train Station offers a different historical perspective: the Louisville and Nashville Railroad built it at its present location in 1882. Sevier Station is considered the oldest standing structure in Montgomery County. Together, these sites offer different perspectives on military and transportation history.

The Customs House Museum & Cultural Center is partly housed in a historic 1898 building originally built as a Federal Post Office and Customs House. Historic Collinsville includes a 40-acre pioneer settlement and the Weakley House Museum. A self-guided audio tour takes visitors through 16 restored log houses and outbuildings in an open-air setting. The Weakley House Museum displays the couple’s extensive collections and the stories behind them. Visitors interested in the history of the African American community can also explore the African American Legacy Trail, which runs through Montgomery County and shares the far-reaching and unique history of Clarksville’s African American community.

Museums, Theater and Events

The Roxy Regional Theatre presents productions ranging from classics to new works. Since 1985, it has also offered matinee performances aligned with the curricula of K–12 schools. Wade Bourne Nature Center is both a museum and an event venue, and includes a nature discovery area for children. The Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum focuses on interactive and immersive exhibits for visitors of all ages. Downtown Commons adds a wide variety of events and activities for cultural and recreational purposes.

For a stay that also includes local growers and artisans, Clarksville Downtown Market is a distinct seasonal option. Since it was established in 2009, it has brought local growers and artisans together with local shoppers every Saturday from May through October. Its defined season helps you plan when to visit. The options offer clearly different focuses: trails and river activities alongside museums, theater, historic buildings and a seasonal market. Choose your hotel base according to which aspects of Montgomery make your stay especially appealing.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Clarksville, Hardin County, Grainger County, Union County, Mcnairy County, Campbell County, Marion County, Crockett County.

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