Hill’s Island Kayak & Walk & Talk

Did you know that the Cumberland River Compact owns a 20 acre island on the Cumberland River in Nashville city limits? Join Compact staff on a tour of Hill’s Island to learn about the ecological and human history of this unique island– and how the Compact manages it through the land trust program. 

The tour will consist of a two-mile round trip kayak paddle to Hill’s Island and a ~one mile walk along the island’s banks. Along the way, we’ll stop to learn about interesting plant and animal life, indicators of ecological health, what the island may have looked like prior to the settlement of Nashville, and how its ecology has changed in the last few centuries.

We’ll also talk about how humans have used Hill’s Island from prehistoric times up to modern times, then look at some of the work that the Compact is doing now to steward this unique place. 

Registration is required; the Compact will provide kayaks, paddles, and life vests.

Meet-up and Parking: Registrants will receive an email with details closer to the event, including the exact meeting location, which will be near the Old Hickory/Lakewood neighborhoods.

Know Before You Go

• This trip is strenuous; we will be paddling 1 mile upstream, 1 mile back downstream, and walking 1 to 1.5 miles on the island. 
• Bring plenty of water and lunch/snacks.
• There are no trails on the island, so closed-toe shoes and long pants are highly recommended. 
• Bring whatever form of sun protection and insect repellant suits you.
• There are no restroom facilities on the island, so be prepared to be one with nature.
• Registration is required for this event; please fill out the form below when available to reserve a spot and a kayak.