Harpeth River
Tennessee Scenic River - Class II Pastoral River Area and Class III Developed River Area
The Harpeth River originates in Eagleville, Tennessee and flows nearly 125 miles to the confluence of the Cumberland River near Ashland City. In 2012 removal of a low head dam made it the second longest un-impounded river in middle Tennessee. The scenic river stretch provides recreational, cultural and historic features including a blueway that connects areas of the Harpeth River State Park to surrounding local communities. The river’s diverse landscape is characterized by mixed hardwood forests, majestic bluffs, farmland and developed communities. These attribute to its ecological diversity and scenic beauty. Local outfitters rent canoes and kayaks and coordinate trips, including over-night camping trips. Personal craft can be launched at Blueway access points and TWRA boat launch ramps. The Duck River is part of the Tennessee Blueways Program (BluewaysTN).
Quick Facts
- Designated segments located in Rutherford and Davidson counties
- Approximately 21.1 miles designated (12.6 miles of Class II and 8.5 miles of Class III)
- Segments designated as Class II Pastoral River Area and Class II Developed River Area among the first-designated scenic rivers in the Tennessee Scenic Rivers Act of 1968
Designation History
Class II Pastoral River Area
- April 4, 1968: Designated as "The entire river exclusive of that segment between State Highway 100 and the lower end of the channel paralleling Interstate 40, and that segment between Interstate 65 and U.S. Highway 431."
- March 22, 1972: Amended to "The entire river except that segment lying north of Highway 100 and south of Interstate 40 in Davidson County; and except those segments located in Cheatham, Dickson and Williamson counties."
Class III Developed River Area
- April 4, 1968: Designated as "That segment between Highway 100 and the lower end of the channel paralleling Interstate 40, and that segment between Interstate 65 and U.S. Highway 431."
- March 22, 1972: Amended to "Only that segment of the Harpeth River lying North of Highway 100 and South of Interstate 40; it being the specific intent to exclude all segments of the Harpeth River lying in or flowing though Cheatham, Dickson and Williamson counties."