- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Radnor Lake State Natural Area
Categories: Active Life Parks Active Life Hiking Parks, Hiking [Edit]
1160 Otter Creek RdNashville, TN 37220
(615) 373-3467
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
28 reviews for Radnor Lake State Natural Area
28 reviews in English
-
Review from Jenn Z.
1/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
Radnor Lake is yet another serenely beautiful park in Tennessee, trees abound, water on all sides of the trail. Hiking trails, walking trails, family and pet friendly.
We took our 17 month old for a walk here mid-afternoon New Year's Eve. The temps have been pretty mild so it was just right. It was chilly and we were layered, but the sun was out, the water was glistening and we enjoyed the atmosphere. I much prefer a walk in the brisk air than a walk in 100 degree heat!
So many people were out for a walk, jog, hike when we came we waited about 10 minutes for parking on the east side entrance, but we didn't mind at all. A friendly park volunteer greeted us and explained the wait while sharing that there were several wildlife sightings that day.
Once parked we took the asphalt trail since we had a stroller and precious cargo in tow. So many friendly people to share our walk, many with their dogs and kids. We are definitely bringing the doggie kids too next time.
The roads are in the process of being improved from erosion, but the trails for hiking are open as are the asphalt areas. Many people were hiking and using the wooded trails. The water was still, spotted with turtles and ducks every few feet.
We have promised ourselves to include Radnor as one of our weekend outing locations going forward. So many people in Nashville talk about this place, and it certainly lives up to it's reputation! -
Review from Marcia M.
I am updating my review on Radnor Lake because my last review was during the balmy Summer months and you can't count this sanctuary out in the Winter months either!
Sure, you should load on some layers, gloves, and a hat to keep your body warm but the hike and beautiful serene environment will keep you moving.
Yesterday I took a shorter route because I didn't dress appropriately for the weather but plan to continue my hikes here throughout the Winter months.
Be sure to arrive early enough to avoid the dark due to nightfall kicking off at around 5pm, Radnor may be a better place to hit up first thing in the morning or on weekends since the park closes at dusk.
I simply can't get enough of this place!Listed in: I HEART Nashville Biz, 1st Date Will Lead To A 2nd, Workin On My Fitness, Nashville's Gone Green!, Shhhhhh... Quiet.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
8/21/2011
It such a travesty that I have lived in Nashville for 3 years now and just recently experienced… Read more »
-
-
Review from Cynthia T.
Nashville, TN
11/17/2011
"What a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day on the neighborhood, won't you be mine, won't you be mine?"
If Mr. Rogers had a natural area like this I'm pretty sure he would've spent lots of time walking in it! Love the trees and trails even though the lake was pretty mossy and low due to the past heat of summer.
We came here on an impromptu family hike over Labor Day weekend and after 45 minutes, I felt as if I've only gotten a glimpse of it.
Will be back for more soon! -
Review from Zach G.
1/17/2012
I always feel like the Zombie Apocalypse has happened when I'm here. With the road that you walk around the lake there is the double yellow line where the road is all kind of ripped up. Pretty place to go day walking like a vampire or a normal human being. Speaking of which. I need to take my son here and stop playing Skyrim and pretending I'm at places like this....(save game...turn off...)...
-
Review from Hope D.
I really enjoyed my stroll around this lake. Peaceful, clean, and beautiful scenery. I had a great day just walking around chatting with friends. We might even make it a weekly thing!
-
Review from lyndi s.
10/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love Radnor Lake! There, I said it.
This place is so relaxing and beautiful. I've been here a couple times for a low-key hike around the lake, and both times I left completely relaxed and happy. I thoroughly enjoyed the wildlife, and am always imrpessed with how clean and tucked away this place remains, despite how close it is to the city. Such a great place to hide away from the real world. Or maybe that IS the real world and I'm just hustling around for no reason...
Either way, I will continue to enjoy my walks around the lake, and maybe one day I'll feel energetic enough to hike Granier Trail! -
Review from Stu R.
10/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
Very beautiful park that's totally free!
The main trail wraps around the lake, with the south side being directly on the lake and the north side is more in the woods. I thought the lake side was better, but the wooded trail feels like being in a mystical forest.
We went in mid-October and the leaves were just starting to turn orange. There's also a cool assortment of wildflowers growing... I found a patch of purple and blue flowers next to some leaves that were turning from green to orange and red all in a row... natural rainbow!
We ran into a park ranger who had a one-winged Great Horned Owl that they had rescued. She said they were planning to build an aviary in the park. If so, that will definitely make this place ever cooler.
Minor Cons:
- Parking is crowded. If you see a line of cars waiting to get in the park, I would advise just parking in one of the nearby neighborhoods and adding 5 minutes to your hike. Way better than trying to stalk people leaving and hoping you can swoop in on one of those coveted parking spots...
- JESUS CHRIST NASHVILLE! Pick up your dog's poop!!! Never in my life have I seen such irresponsible dog owners. I saw 4 dogs take a dump and not a single person clean it up. The award for "best effort" goes to a lady who kicked a pile of leaves over her dog's crap, creating a fecal landmine for the next poor kid who decides to jump on that pile of leaves... -
Review from Caitlin C.
Nashville, TN
9/6/2011
Yesterday I went on vacation. The remnants of Lee signaled the end of summer, with a wonderful cool rainy day. A perfect day for a good walk through the woods. My boyfriend and I had never been to Radnor and when we started on the lake trail we really felt like we were on vacation, what with the weather and wild scenery, still within the city mind you!
The parking lot was still busy despite the rain, as it was labor day after all. But we found a spot and headed for the trail, within the first minute I saw a fat chipmunk, a few minutes later a rabbit, and about 15 minutes later a deer. When people say this is a wildlife hot spot it really is true. It's probably because people feed these critters, which accounts for the repetitive signs stating no picnicking. Radnor is also quite strict abouts jogging along the trail, which I imagine scares animals away.
The lake trail takes about an hour if you're taking your time and takes you close to the lakes edge as well as through some of the wooded areas. It's a very very easy and very relaxing walk. The trail is well kept and there are benches to sit at along the trail if you want to take a break or just take in the vistas.
I'll definitely be visiting Radnor again. A true gem for residents of Nashville.Listed in: Park It!
-
Review from Zarna S.
Nashville, TN
9/12/2011 9 Check-ins Here
I'll be the first to admit it, I'm not a very outdoors-y person. My typical garb includes platform heels and borderline-comical clothing choices. That being said, the first time I went to Radnor Lake I was completely smitten! It's relaxing and a great escape from the city. What I love most is that it's easily accessible and you don't have to drive hours outside of Nashville to enjoy the gorgeous scenery and great trails!
If you're feeling ambitious, I recommend taking the Garnier Trail as well as the South Cove Trail - they're fantastic and you'll usually see a deer or two along the way! -
Review from Jason C.
Santa Monica, CA
7/7/2011
Lots of deer, wild turkeys, beautiful owls.
I love this place a true nature preserve and lots of volunteers to keep it nice -
Review from Kim Y.
Are the reviews of Radnor lake intentionally hysterical? Okay, I guess I am down with my little Radnor being the new ' Amazon. com 3 Wolf Shirt' (google it) of Nashville Yelp. I do still, however, suggest people look up 'Nature Reserve' and kindly learn the difference between that and 'park'.
Wait, Ill do it for you...(good old wikipedia)
Nature Reserve: A nature reserve (natural reserve, nature preserve, natural preserve) is a protected area of importance for wildlife (poor snakes included), flora, fauna or features of geological or other special interest, which is reserved and managed for conservation and to provide special opportunities for study or research.
Park: A park is a protected area, in its natural or semi-natural state, or planted, and set aside for human recreation and enjoyment (yes, that means your children and their cheeto's and apple sauce), or for the protection of wildlife or natural habitats (the wildlife being 'monkeys' on a jungle gym).
As you can see Radnor Lake is NOT a park and should not be reviewed as one. There are plenty of 'parks' in Nashville you can play in if that is your jam.
Radnor is my jam though! I love the quiet and sunsets at Radnor - spectacular colors and the owls, deer and turtles. The staff is always pleasant enough to me - friendly even, but then again, I follow the rules.
The one off star is for the aforementioned parking issue. I reccommend going on a weeknight or EARLY on a weekend.
Also - runners on the trails? I'd like the joggers to haul gravel up those huge hills and then still complain about not being able to jog over it and mess it up. -
Review from Matt L.
4/10/2011
I hate this place and I didn't almost step on a snake. There's a reason you don't put a Natural Preserve in the middle of a city: you restrict usage down to nothing means you can't take your kids down, you can't bring food to keep them happy, there's not nearly enough designated parking (and parking along the side of the road is not good for the ecosystem.
One of the first things I saw was a ranger in a pickup truck speding a good three minutes browbeating a mother and son for eating food in the area. In order to get there, the truck had to pass by what looked like a 75 pound turtle that had gone down the road and was not happy about being separated from the water by a huge concrete barrier. The staff is clearly much more interested in browbeating visitors than actually helping the wildlife.
If you're willing to brave the jackbooted fascists more and the rules keeping people from having a good time or families from providing for their children, be sure that you have detailed directions because there are zero signs anywhere letting people know where the the place is. I went up and down Granny Pike looking for the area: zero signs. Nothing indicating where to go. The Grand Ole' Opry has billboards from hundreds of miles away, but the state can't put up a sign at the corner of Otter Creek Road letting people know where their natural reserve is?
I would go as far as to say that this place is just as bad as Fort Negley. The Warner Parks work because humans can have their playgrounds, their picnic areas, reasonable parking that properly drained, and the ability to get from one side of the preserve to the other without having to drive all the way around it from Franklin Pike to Granny White Pike.
There the never-ending stream of "Friends of Radnor Lake." Well, I am an enemy of Radnor Lake. Drain it, grade it, build that proposed Amusement Park there instead of Spring Hill. It'll be a better place for families, and no one will get bit by a rattler. -
Review from Kristie P.
Nashville, TN
4/14/2011
Radnor Lake State Natural Area, a McDonald's playground this is not. Scenic areas, a diversity of natural habitats and, wait for it, abundant wildlife, are all features of this suburban oasis.
Enjoy hiking? There are a total of 4 trails throughout this nature sanctuary. The layout is such that you can experience all of the trails in one visit and not walk over 5 miles. This can be accomplished
by taking the main Lake Trail which loops around the 85 acre lake and then segueing onto the shorter trails as you come across them. A hiking trail map can be downloaded off the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation website. And although I would be hard pressed to describe any of the trails as strenuous (contrary to the trail map) you can still get a decent workout whilst communing with nature.
Other activities include wildflower walks, bird watching, and astronomy night hikes. After a good snow in the winter, the view of the lake and surrounding area is killer from the South Cove Trail. Check it out. -
Review from Eliza R.
8/25/2011 3 photos
Radnor Lake is a very scenic park/natural area full of beautiful flora and fauna. I wouldn't use the term "hiking" to describe walking on the trails, as nothing is strenuous or uphill in the least. All of the trails are quite leisurely and relaxing, actually! I took the long trail around the entire perimeter of the lake and was amazed at all of the deer we saw. It's really comforting to know that a green space like this exists within Nashville. I would love to go back during the fall to take in the gorgeous autumn colors!
Listed in: Go outside!
-
Review from Suz J.
Nashville, TN
5/21/2011
Ganier Ridge trail challenge makes me sweat in the summer and I like it. In the winter I freeze my buns off climbing the steep grade up to ridgetop, then plop myself on the natural bench and watch the deer. Most Radnor trail walkers skip the Ganier ridgetop challenge so it can be unbelieveably peaceful, tranquil up there. And my short legs like the exercise. I thank the railroad for turning over lake Radnor from its former use as a railroad spot. And I thank the nonprofit http://www.radnorlake.... friends of Radnor which continues to nurture our dear Radnor and even saves ajoining land from development by buying it. That's what friends are for and I'm proud to be a member. I like Radnor Lake and I like the nice trailwalkers who enjoy our Tennessee nature preserve. Did I mention the deer? Don't forget the little dears.
Listed in: Places I Go Out
-
Review from Paul K.
Warning - there is wildlife there - if you think it's all bunnies and deer, read down - the outdoors is outdoors and occasionally you're going to run into a fox or a snake. You also might fall down and scrape your knee. I feel the need to warn people of that since the only people I've ever heard complain about this place (other than parking) complained that they hurt themselves and there wasn't a first aid station 12 feet away, or as a previous reviewer mentioned he ran into a snake.
Parking on the East Side is a mess, it's something I tend to avoid when it's nice outside as all the fair-weather walkers loaded 2 to the Ford Expedition go and try and cram into ~25 parking spaces. If it's nice, I'm only going to that side on a motorcycle (which has 7 spaces you can park out of spaces cars can't use)
I honestly think if this place it too wild for you, or too outdoorsy or dangerous for you, you just shouldn't consider hiking off of a paved road (where your chances of getting hit by deer unable to stop increase).
As a note, if you're coming up on a bunch of deer, say "hey deer" - make just enough noise to be noticed and keep walking. If you clam up and stop walking the deer will suspect something is afoot and start wandering off. I think it's a deer's natural instinct that if someone is addressing it as "Mr Deer" that most likely they're not attempting to hunt it, but if they slow down deer think you're attempting to teach them about your particular spin on an established religious practice.
You can see tons of deer about an hour before sunset (which is earlier in Radnor Lake due to the mountains - I'd guess about 25 minutes) and you can scare away snakes and most predatory animals by bringing a partner and talking to them... remember, nature doesn't want to fight you.
If you hear a sound like an obnoxious 8-year old screaming in the distance, be aware although it could be, there're some damn screach birds there that sound like it... so either way consider it a beautiful sound of nature and move on without thinking too ill at it.
Also, common courtesy if you are out walking and talking on your cell phone, don't tailgate other walkers - just stop for a bit so we don't have to listen to you talk about your toenail fungus and what the doctor prescribed for it and how bad your current shoes are for this particular hike.
As for the employees of this place - me and the wife were the last out one day, her tire was flat, I tried to change it but her tools were crap (remedied) and we had to call a tow truck. One of the park rangers stayed with us until AAA figured out how to get there. AAA got there, managed to get the bolts off with powertools and some cursing (seriously, bolts would not budge) and the ranger never seemed annoyed. He was a really cool guy. Cut to another time we should have been done with 30 minutes to spare except I did something to my ankle and was hopping Grainer Ridge back (it is a lot slower hopping, who would have thunk it) so we were those asses who were there after dark - same guy was there closing up and had been back a couple of times to see if we were out yet, he was very nice and just told me not to hurt myself again. I would give this man a medal for dealing with people like me.
I love this place, have volunteered and moved thousands of pounds of gravel (which sadly got washed away in the flooding) and suggest you do too. -
Review from John G.
Virginia Beach, VA
7/19/2008
What? There are snakes in the woods? Who knew. Wes' review may be the most unintentionally funny thing I have read in a long, long time. To give a State Natural Area 1 star because there was a snake in the woods is ridiculous.
For the rest of us, Radnor offers a great getaway in a big city. It offers a chance to go for a walk amongst the trees, and on the edge of a lake and let your mind clear.
My personal favorite hike is Gannet Ridge, which takes you up some relatively steep switch backs to a great view of the city.
But be sure to watch out for snakes! HAAHAHAHA!!!! -
Review from Sharon N.
Nashville, TN
5/25/2008 1 photo
Radnor lake is a state nature area with a lot of forested trails and wildlife. The park is just outside of Brentwood, but it feels secluded and out of the way. They are a little strict about what you can do in the park, you can't have pets, and in fact you can't even jog... I guess they are worried about trail erosion or disturbing the wildlife, but this seems a little strict. So this place is only for walking! They have a sign at the trailhead threating a $196.50 fine for anyone caught jogging, so don't even power walk...
The trails are pretty and very well maintained. They take you around the perimeter of the lake and up through the hilly areas around the lake. I saw a dozen deer just hanging around in the area, and several turtles, so this is a great park for spotting wildlife. -
Review from Claire B.
Nashville, TN
9/28/2008
It's such an irony that technology could have created such a beautiful "natural" area. The lake is man-made, a reservoir dug by the the L & N Railroad company for the purpose of filling steam engines and watering the livestock they transported. However, L & N also used the area as a hunting and fishing estate, which in 1923 became a wildlife reserve for migrating birds. The website has a short history, but you can read and see more images at the visitor center (on the Granny White Pike side).
Radnor Lake is breathtaking at all times of the year. I have so many happy memories of walking here, and I am still creating new ones. Its landscape is ever changing with the seasons: fall is gorgeous, but the crunch of frozen leaves under your feet in winter as you look out onto a partially frozen lake, also has its charms. If you're quiet and respectful, on a good day you'll see deer, squirrels, birds, racoons, (and even the occasional snake) and you'll see turtles lined up on branches jutting out from the lake's waters sunning themselves, totally unconcerned with the silly humans and their canine sidekicks walking by.
I cannot espouse the therapeutic qualities of a trip to Radnor enough. The lake trail is a "do not miss" but don't forgo the harder trails on the ridges either. -
Review from Wes K.
Nashville, TN
6/29/2008
Until September of 2003, I would have given this place 5-stars. In September of 2003, I was hiking Ganier Ridge with my girlfriend. It was a weekday afternoon with beautiful weather--about 75 degrees, a nice breeze, and low humidity. As we neared the summit of the hike, I was looking up to the top and noticing a couple walking toward us. What I didn't notice was the rattlesnake on the ground on the trail about 10 feet away. It wasn't until I was about to step on it that I saw it. I jumped to the right, pushing my girlfriend off the trail and out of harm's way. I fell down and my left leg was scraped on the hard ground. I thought I had been bitten, because I felt a stinging pain.
The other couple saw what happened and raced over. The snake had decided to slither off in the other direction rather than coil up and attack. After I looked at my leg and saw it had just been scraped, we quickly retreated down the trail the same way we came up, following the couple all the way back down. We got back in my car, and that's the last time I ever went to Radnor Lake. We now walk on Whitland Avenue and the adjoining streets. Our neighborhood is an ideal place to walk. -
Review from Patrick R.
Nashville, TN
5/27/2008
Radnor Lake is one of the most beautiful places near Nashville to hike or just enjoy some scenery. As Sharon mentioned in her review, park authorities are a bit strict about what they'll allow (absolutely no jogging), but Radnor has such natural beauty that it's still absolutely worth a visit.
When I attended Lipscomb, my buddies and I would often make the quick drive down to Radnor Lake. It's just a couple of miles down Granny White, and though I suppose it's technically in Brentwood, it's a very brief drive for anyone in South Nashville. Most often when we'd head down to Radnor, we'd just wander around the trails admiring the view and the wildlife. One evening, however, we built a nice little campfire near the lake. I know, I know...I'm certain you aren't supposed to do that, so I don't condone it. But it was pretty fun that one time.
I'm not much of a walker. When I exercise, I like to do something that actually requires physical exertion. However, from a non-exercise perspective, Radnor Lake is my favorite place in Nashville to wander aimlessly and get lost in the scenery. It's an enormous park with free parking, and it showcases the natural beauty of Middle Tennessee's rolling hills and plush, gorgeous foliage. -
Review from kristen p.
Godley, TX
1/16/2008
"With over 1200 acres, Radnor Lake State Natural Area is the largest pocket of wilderness in the U.S. in close proximity to a major city."
So if you are looking for a convenient place to go hiking this is it. They have trails, canoe floats, astronomy nights, and a closed off road where you can go biking. And if you have been avoiding going because of parking fees you will be glad to know that parking is once again free. -
Review from Erin D.
Nashville, TN
1/2/2009
I LOVE Lake Radnor. Every year, sometime around April, I cancel my gym membership and spend every free evening and weekend morning at Radnor. This continues until it starts getting dark at 6pm and the leaves fall. Fair warning, it can get pretty packed on a Sunday afternoon. I love having a quiet sanctuary stuck in between Green Hills and Brentwood.
I never get bored with it because they have four main trails to choose from. Two are easy and two are strenuous, which I always opt for the latter. None of the trails are longer than two miles by themselves so I often double up. I really like that there is no running allowed on those trails as well, it keeps the pace nice. On the weekends you can usually find tons of families out walking around but generally everyone is very friendly and considerate. The road that connects the trails to the East and West parking lots is closed to most traffic (State employees do use it) and is usually filled with people walking their dogs, etc.
I have seen snakes on the South Cove trail, so therefore I'm always well aware of my surroundings. Also, once with while hiking the South Lake trail with a friend, I slipped and severely sprained my ankle. It's not necessarily the wilderness but it sure ain't the mall. -
Review from Anna A.
Nashville, TN
12/10/2008
I find this to be an incredibly picturesque park to spend time in. You can circle the entire lake on pristine trails and see lots of wildlife up close. I too have seen a few snakes here of the garter varietal. I tried to catch one once so I could show it to my kids and the thing peed on me. This is why I only give Radnor lakes 4 stars because their snakes pee on you if you try to catch them so approach with caution.
That being said, the trails are beautiful and really well maintained. You cannot take strollers or bikes around the lake, just on the closed road part. I say this because we took our little kids with us with the intention of circling the lake and I would say, it's a heck of a walk for a kid under 5 and it's a long walk for parents who may be planning on lugging one of those little kids on your back. I've have gone this route and ended up with some sore shoulders and snake pee hands. Good times! -
Review from Nick N.
Clarksville, TN
9/1/2010
Great place here in the Nashville area to relax and enjoy nature. Easy to get to as it is close by and has some great trails and a nice visitors center. It is clean and well kept too. The best part about the place is that there is NO jogging or biking on the nature trails! You can actually walk/hike without the fear of being run over by joggers or bikers. You can get up close to deer (they often stand and eat right off the trails) and other critters along the trails as they almost ignore you as you walk along. Great to take the kids too and see what you can see!
-
Review from Robin S.
Nashville, TN
4/3/2008 1 photo
Radnor is another one of my favorite places to get away and not feel like you are in the city. This is more of a pure nature area though--animals come first! No pets allowed, except on the paved area and they must be on a leash. Also, no running on trails--I'm not going to argue with that; those trails are pretty tough!
But, you probably would just want to hike through anyway--so much scenery to look at! Lots of deer--be careful during fawn season (there will be signs up alerting you to this) that you don't disturb the baby deer!
Fantastic trails, beautiful, undisturbed lake, great for bird and other wildlife watchers (I've been told!). Free parking, and I would go before sunset. -
Review from Jackie Y.
10/21/2010 1 photo
Radnor Lake is a great escape from the city, in the city! Does it get much better?? Actually... yes it does! They could allow runners during certain hours... and they could have a picnic area too! However, if you're looking for nice walking trails, this is your place! They have multiple groomed trails on the lake and on the ridge that have look-out points and an abundance of wildlife at your fingertips! Every weekend we are up close and personal with deer, turtles, snakes & squirrels! The weekdays are calm and parking is easy, but if you head there on a weekend... come early, and be prepared to wait in your car until a parking spot opens up!
Listed in: Workin' on my Fitness
-
Review from molly h.
Nashville, TN
6/19/2008
Radnor Lake has to be my most favorite spot in Nashville...and makes me feel like Im miles away! The landscape is breathtaking. I just did the lake trail yesterday and saw 5 fawn. Take the time to walk into the learning center to read about the history of the lake. Also, make sure you pay your dues....they need to update the womens restroom, its very clean, just needs some upgrades:) If you ever want to take a mini day vaca, head here! You will leave refreshed and relaxed.
