We have been visiting Radnor lake for years and it is one of our favorite places to walk and feel connected with nature while also still being close to the city. We always enter from the "access trail" side. It is a smaller parking lot but we like coming in from this side. Depending on what time you get there, you may have a slight wait time to park but it is usually pretty quick and efficient. We usually arrive before 8:30am and have had no problem finding a spot. There are I believe at least 2 handicap spots at this entrance. They also have bathrooms available that are always clean and kept up. At the main entrance, entering from (otter creek). There is a welcome center with information and a small gift shop. Before bringing a stroller we would always go on the trail through the park woods but now with our baby and taking a stroller we take the paved path which was just redone and is SO nice!!! Strollers and bikes are not permitted on the dirt path so keep that in mind. There is so much beauty to look at while enjoying a nice peaceful walk. Eagles, owls, deer, frogs, turtles, birds, and more creatures to look at all while visiting Radnor. It is a staple as a local to get outdoors and into fresh air. Great place to take kids or any family that is visiting or even a great place to go on a nice solo long walk. read more

See all

Visited with my husband and 3 kids (ages 4, 3, and 20 months) on a holiday weekend around 9 a.m. There are two entrances -- we used the one off Franklin Rd. This parking lot is smaller, but we were surprised to find a spot easily. When we left around 10:45, there was a line of about 6 cars waiting, though cars seemed to move through fairly quickly. There is a nice bathroom at the top of the parking lot. From this entrance, you can also access the trail along the lake, though strollers and dogs are not allowed on that trail. We chose the lower paved trail instead (part of the mulch trail loop). It's wide -- almost road-sized -- and newly paved the entire way. It took about 15 minutes to reach the lake, and there's plenty more paved trail beyond that. We saw frogs, ducks, turtles, deer, an owl, and even a bald eagle. My kids stayed engaged the whole time. The trail was flat and easy for stroller pushing, and my older kids rode scooters without any issues. There were lots of families, dogs, and walkers out, but it never felt overcrowded. Overall, this is a great near-the-city option for getting young kids into nature without dealing with steep terrain. The other entrance off Granny White has the visitor center and a bit more parking. read more

See all

Such a fun time at Radnor Lake! A couple months ago I met a person who was living in Nashville and I asked for walking recommendations. The Lake did not disappoint! It was quiet, serene, lush, few passers by here and there, not too hot, not too humid. If I lived in the area I would be a regular visitor. We got the opportunity to visit and walk the lake twice during our Nashville stay. Can't wait to visit again next year! read more

See all

First time hiking this place and it was really nice. Not too difficult but doing it during semi hot temperatures can get you a good workout. I think the hike around the lake was around 2-3 miles. read more

See all

Incredible park right outside of nashville with so much to offer. Love that this is a protected area with so much wildlife. i've spotted a bald eagle almost every single time i've visited. There are so many trails with different difficulty levels. The main lake trail is also dog friendly !! They did such a great job cleaning up after the ice storm!! read more

Radnor Lake State Park - Parks Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

See all

Another peaceful walk to start the day. A nice 80 degrees in July brought out many walkers but it never feels crowded on the paths ( but you may have to wait for a parking space.) Today we spotted nests, birds, turtles and a fawn! The west side parking area has a nice visitors center to explore and learn more about the history of the lake area. I liked the gift shop and even bought a Radnor Lake coffee mug for a friend that comes here with me sometimes. read more

See all

Love this trail. When I usually go hiking with newer people I usually like to do this one. It's a good little hike with some some good incline for a nice little workout. I love the scenery here and how clean the area is kept. You get both woods and water. Sometimes you will see deers and other critters and birds along the way. Good to be one with nature here for sure. read more

Beautiful, peaceful area. Took a lovely stroll on a weekday afternoon and it wasn't too busy. All the other walkers were delightful and one couple even pointed out a large snapping turtle to us. I love how shaded the whole path was since I get easily heat sick. We also saw some wild turkeys and a heron. The walk around the lake didn't take too much time and should be easy for most. read more

See all

What a beautiful park to hike and be fully immersed in nature. If you want to feel peace and surround yourself with beauty this is the place. The whole trail is about 2.7 miles so perfect for anyone at any level. Highly recommend read more

Radnor Lake is absolutely beautiful and tranquil -- the lake views are stunning and create such a peaceful atmosphere. The walking trails are fantastic and well maintained, perfect for exploring the natural landscape. Parking is easy and convenient, which makes the visit even better. It's definitely great for families, love birds, and solo visitors looking to enjoy nature. If you're an animal lover, dogs are welcome too. Truly a lovely, peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle we all get ourselves into from time to time. Check it out -- you'll see exactly what I mean! (Photos taken in early fall) Pro Tip: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and depending on how long you plan to explore, bring something to drink (water is always a good idea). read more

See all

I like coming here to walk the trails around the lake. Parking is almost always full. It would be nice if they expanded the parking lots. You will likely not get cell service here. The paved trail by the lake allows dogs. The unpaved trails definitely have more wildlife. I've seen turkeys, deer, owls, bald eagles, and so many beautiful smaller birds. Wear bug spray in the warmer months. read more

Limited parking but there are 2 entrances , one on the east side and one on the west side . Trails are full of wildlife and well kept . Some are easy some are moderate . There are only a few miles but it is a very relaxing place to walk . read more

See all

beautiful 1.37 acre state park in Oak Hill, Tennessee. Has wildlife like owls, herons, eagles etc. We got to see an owl and deer. And many squirrels. The lake itself is beautiful and the lake trail is 2.7 mile loop. There is a ganier ridge and south cove loop trail that is 5.1 miles; and historic valve house trail which is 0.8 miles leading to a historic stone structure. read more

It is in a natural setting in Nashville metropolitan area with lakes, trails and resting grounds where you can walk around at your path with your family. read more

I am brand new to Tennessee (from Los Angeles) and this has been my first venture out into the wild. This park, the scenery, the view, the journey is amazing! The parts of the trail I hit (from East Lot to Lake Trail to Otter Creek back to the East Lot) were very clean, peaceful, and serene. I appreciated how easy this park was to find, hidden among the suburbs of Brentwood, and parking though super busy on weekend mornings, was free and the employees were there to help. I am not an extremely active person or an avid hiker at all, and I will say that this 2.5 mile looping trail is moderate - not super long, complicated, or strenuous. There were many opportunities to rest, with some even ground, but there was still a bit of a challenge present in some areas. It started off (from the East Lot) at an incline for a bit, but then levels off the higher you get. There are a lot of narrow, uneven paths with maneuvering needed among the tree roots and some steep parts alongside the hill. This can be a very leisurely hike if you choose, as I definitely took my time, since there was so much to appreciate at every turn. I rested on the benches several times, so it was about two hours to complete. Once you hit the lake, at about 3/4 of the way, and emerge from the forest, you are accompanied with the view for pretty much the rest of the trail. This was my first time hiking alone, and did little to no research, so I was unsure if the trail would even loop but it did. Just check out the map, and thankfully there is signal available, so match your location with the map, which I have shared in the photos. I highly enjoyed my visit to Radnor Lake and will be back again very soon for some peace and quiet while enjoying good physical exercise! read more

We went here for a hike around the lake with some friends. Unfortunately part of the path was closed for maintenance but it was well signed

Radnor lake state park is a beautiful, scenic park located fairly closer to downtown. The park has sufficient parking spots and a pet friendly walking spot too! The park has a large lake at the center with walking path around it, and if you're a hiker then there are multiple hiking spots inside. I have been here during the winters, spring and summer, and its beautiful, peaceful and visually satisfying spot. I love how the park has these wooden deck, over the deck so that one can get a good view or an insta-worthy photo. You will find plenty of deer, squirrel, birds and turtles. we got a close look at the beautiful bald Eagle. Its a well maintained park so make sure you don't carry any food inside, it's strictly prohibited. Nevertheless, it's closer to midtown, where you can always halt for food. I recommend at least one visit at this park. read more

See all

Went hiking at Radnor's and it was a very pleasant experience. The trails have no obstructions, we saw deer all around us, bald eagles perched right over the water, and very friendly hikers. I highly recommend Radnor Lake, especially in the early morning. You will see a beautiful sunrise, wildlife scurrying around, and serenity all around you. read more

See all

First time visiting the bird sanctuary! A beautiful hike and amazing birds to learn about.

What a lovely park. The lake in the middle was small enough that we could hike around it but large enough that we felt like we were in the woods truly away from it all. It started to rain halfway through our hike. It was lovely hearing the rain hit the canopy of trees. We saw chipmunks, squirrels, raccoons, and about six deer. It is a bald eagle sanctuary, but unfortunately, we did not see any that day. Highly recommend if you just wanna get out of town a bit stretch your legs and have an easy hike. read more

See all

We love taking our dog here on Sundays. Beautiful scenery and nice walking trails. Always fun to spot and observe the wildlife here. This park beats the other spots in Nashville in my opinion. Get there early if you want to snag a parking space! read more

Radnor Lake State Park - Parks Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

One of my favorite parks in the area. Two different entrances to choose and parking can be difficult to find given popularity of the park. They have a small lot at the visitor centers and street parking, but be prepared to parallel park. Once you park, you can choose to walk the wooded path around the lake or just paved path as well. Dogs are allowed only on the paved paths. You will see lots of wild life from birds, turtles, squirrels, chipmunks, snakes, etc. no matter the path you choose. read more

Radnor Lake State Park - Parks Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

See all

I love this place - I've hiked it so many times and there's always a treasure trove of things to see and experience. From the wildlife (turkey deer turtles owls etc) to the plant life galore. I love coming in the spring with buds of new life. I also enjoy the fall colors. And even in the summer, with the canopy, it doesn't get too hot. Winter is good too... sometimes we get those random gorgeous days and this is the first place I go! Word of caution: if the weather is in the 60s-70s the parking lots fill up FAST! So get there before 9am or plan to wait to park. There are very easy trails and a few more challenging ones - something for everyone. read more

See all

This park is such a delight. The protected areas were fun to observe. There are no bikes to have to avoid which was amazing. The walking material on the ground was soft and pleasant to walk on. The welcome center was closed, which means no bathroom access, but this place is so fantastic . read more

See all

Best park I've been to around Nashville, great for nature walks, trails are clearly marked and lots of animals to see from the safety of the walkways. Big beautiful lake views and an air conditioned visitors center with some cool historic items and a coke machine for after walk cool down. Also bathrooms are pristine. Look for deer, turtles, comorants, wild turkey, ducks and snapping turtles. read more

See all

Beautiful nature walk around the lake! You can also add on an extension to get a little more miles and even break a sweat by some elevation gain. Walking around the lake had some rules though. There was a weird one that you couldn't run. Not sure the reasoning but we thought it was funny. No dogs on one side too. We saw some armadillos! They're like turtle rats but I've never seen one, so that was cool. We saw some deer as well. There's no trash cans anywhere so make sure to bring out your trash. The visitor center have a little education area and nice bathrooms. There's also a vending machine. read more

See all

Nice state park to walk around . Scenery is nice but the trails aren't very difficult , won't exactly break a sweat walking here . read more

See all

Beautiful, peaceful and very enjoyable park! Options for walking paths to pick from. Parking is a little hard and limited. read more

Radnor Lake State Park - Parks Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

See all

Took a short hike around the spillway. Free, flat, paved or wood chips. Some historical markers. Mostly shaded, a nice place

I only discovered this park shortly before sunset, but it turns out to be a very nice place to catch some views at around that time. Notably, numerous signs warn that it closes and you and your car have to be gone by dark, so I left with the light still fading. A dam sits at the end of a substantial lake, and several trails go around the area. The park is buried a bit in a residential area, and the streets are not pedestrian friendly, so driving carefully is warranted. Many signs indicated to stay on the trails to protect the environment, and to be fair it seemed like an environment worth protecting. read more

See all

Lovely state park tucked away in a beautiful neighborhood. Hubby and I decided to go for a nature walk after a delicious BBQ lunch. We did the easy trails right around Radnor Lake. Total distance clocked in at 2.7 miles. With a couple stops for pictures, it took us about an hour. Lots of nature to see in this area. We spotted several deer on our drive out as well. If you are looking for something to do outdoors or need a place to get some exercise while in the Nashville area, this is a perfect place to go. Wonderful nature views, beautiful lake, wildlife and fresh air! read more

See all

A great (free!) place for nature lovers, hikers, and easy-going walkers with stunning views. Haven't been here since my childhood and wanted to do a fun and scenic walk during the holidays. On a Thursday early morning at the end of December, the parking lot was about 3/4 and filling up the later the morning got. I'd been avoiding Radnor because I knew dogs were only allowed on the paved trail. What I wished I had realized sooner is that the paved trail is still an incredible scenic walk and decent distance for a short trip (my phone logged 2 miles round trip, out and back.) We saw families with young kids, other dog walkers/runners, and several bird and wildlife watchers on our journey. We saw a bald eagle, a turtle, and a hummingbird on our walk with no aid of binoculars (but this would be a great trail to bring them on next time.) Since it was a weekday, it wasn't too crowded and the trail (which is an old road) is pretty wide even if there were more people. The trail is really well maintained with benches and outposts for animal watching along the way. Each side of the paved trail has a parking lot and a bathroom (though the west parking lot, connected to the main entrance, has the superior bathrooms and maps, etc.) Dogs need to be on a leash (something my nervy dog really appreciated) and we found all dog owners were respectful of not forcing on-leash greetings and picking up after their dogs -- two things that make us love a trail! Definitely want to come back here to do some of the human-only trails on my own and be back with the pup on the paved trail during other seasons! read more

See all

Five stars for a beautiful free state park with a great amount of shaded hiking trails varying in length and difficulty/height. We spent a couple of hours here and it was a great way to escape to nature for a bit. The trails are well maintained though some of the roads gave been affected by trees growing towards the lake and pulling the road with it. Understandably, they're seeking donations to repair the roads. The trails that don't include the broken roads are really well maintained with a number of benches and well marked. They also have telescopes and a few different look out areas. This was a treasure not far out of Nashville, & I'd definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a bit of time in nature. Well maintained parking lot and indoor bathroom facilities inside the visitor center. read more

See all

amazing nature park in Tennessee with multiple walking/running trails, seated area, observation decks, etc. There are a variety of trail difficulties for all experience/ fitness levels...be prepared to see a variety of flora and fauna. we stayed for over an hour and didn't even finish the trail we chose to take... if it wasn't for exhausted kiddies definitely would have stayed longer. Highly recommended if u find yourself in Nashville. read more

See all

Great park to explore and enjoy! We walked around the park and saw cool swallow butterflies and birds. It was hot but visited in the morning so the weather was perfect. Stop and visit the area and enjoy nature at it's finest. We will be back! Great place for a run, bike ride or just peacefully relaxing! read more

Radnor Lake State Park - Parks Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

See all

Very peaceful walk and beautiful too! We saw two snakes on our hike and a couple other nature animals. read more

We had breakfast at the loveless cafe this morning and made our way over to the park to burn off some of the biscuits we ate and had a great mid day hike. The outer loop trail (walk up the road from the visitor center) was a great hike up to the top of the ridge and back down the other side looping along the lake. Pay careful attention and take your time walking and you'll have a chance to see lots of wild life up close and personal. We stood 15 feet away from the deer and turkeys who are clearly used to human interaction and know they are safe in the park. Today we saw a pretty large variety of squirrels, chipmunks, big beautiful turkeys, and multiple bucks and does along the ~2 or 3 miles we hiked. It's neat seeing big bucks up close. One of the bucks was chasing a doe and she was more than happy to stand next to us while he glared from a distance. At the secondary park entrance we saw a bachelor pod of 3 smaller bucks and a flock of Tom's together on the road side just inside the entrance. Altogether we saw around 20 deer. Really neat experience just on the outskirts of Nashville. The park is really beautiful and the close path around the lake is paved. The trail is marked as moderate but I found it a challenging hike. The second half along the opposite side of the lake was very flat and a nice way to finish. read more

Love this park or lake or hiking spot. Whatever it is, it's sooo good! We took the Lake Trail which is a 1.35 mile hike/walk around the lake. We came here after a heavy rain shower so there were a lot of muddy puddles. The hike itself was super easy and is just a beautiful relaxing jaunt in the outdoors. The Lake Trail is the main hiking trail and it breaks off into other trails around the lake. There are five trails in total, none of which seem strenuous at all and are more or less just "hard" walks. The parking area here is tight with a few spots for street parking and when it's busy they stop traffic and don't allow anyone to enter unless there's space. The visitor center is really nice and had very clean bathrooms and information about the park itself. I can't wait for spring and summer to see this park in full bloom! read more

See all

Excellent lake and park to visit! Unless you've got at least a few hours, you'll need more than one trip. There's trails to walk. Worth mentioning is that there are some strict rules for the trails to preserve the land. For example, no bikes and no running. Makes sense to me. There's plenty of great photo op areas, benches to rest on, a couple of historical sights...oh and this week it was reported that a bald eagle has made a nest in the park somewhere. I went on a cold day where the weather was 35 degrees with cloudy skies. Definitely needed to dress warmer! I imagine it looks even bette with clear blue skies with some minor cloud coverage. There's a visitor center which I didn't enter. There's a few rushing streams and calmer streams, a small bridge for some great pictures and breathtaking views. There's a couple of spots that explain some cool historical facts about the area. *No Spoilers* here though. It's well worth the trip! Multiple if you need to. Enjoy! read more

See all

For the most part, trails are "easy" (we wore sneakers with absolutely no issues) but if you are getting back into shape, have residual pain from past injuries (eg, knee), or bring small kids then the slight inclines could be more of a challenge. The main trail is mostly mulch and well kept. However, there is also a flat paved section I saw (which looks to be part of a corroding road that is now closed off) so you can forgo the trails all together if you want. Leashed dogs were on the paved section but none are allowed on the main trails. There are signs everywhere about that - no dogs on trails. There are plenty of wooden benches to rest and take in the view. No food/picnic allowed but I saw people sitting and eating snacks anyway. The visitor center is clean and of course have restrooms for convenience. Lots of wildlife! There was a wide variety of animals to see - eagle! deer, turtles, butterflies, geese, etc. Great shade too for the warmer weather. Overall, a leisure outing. read more

Radnor Lake State Park - Parks Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee