If you’ve called Nashville home for a bit, there’s no doubt you’re very familiar with Radnor Lake. You can move on to the next post and say, “Been there, done that.” Totally old news for you. But if you are new to our city or just visiting and looking for fun activities, this one’s for you. There is an absolute hidden gem right smack dab in the middle of Nashville and it’s this stunning lake. Okay, well, smack dab in the “south part” of Nashville. I drove past it for years never knowing what lay inside.
You won’t be able to believe such beauty and refuge is hidden in plain sight. Officially called “Radnor Lake State Park,” this gorgeous outdoor spot is about 10 minutes from downtown. I live in the Woodine neighborhood and it’s about a 7 minute drive for me.
Get There
Radnor Lake is accessed off of either Granny White Pike or Franklin Road. Personally I live on the side of Franklin Road, so that has been my go-to.
A windy road will lead you to a small parking lot with public restrooms. There is often a line of cars waiting to park as it is usually full (it’s a popular place!). But, I have never waited more than 10 minutes for someone to leave and grab their spot.
If you are starting on the Franklin Road side, you will start walking down a long paved road that takes you to the lake. You can continue on to the left to stay on a mostly paved path- and if you are bringing a stroller or pet, this is the route for you. Pets are not allowed on the trails and strollers have a hard time navigating them. While walking the lake you will see turtles, fish, ducks, blue herons and if you’re lucky, deer. If you choose to take the path to the right, you will begin on a trail terrain and end up back on the paved road.
Helpful Tips
There are many little lookout points to stop and observe or eat a packed lunch. If you walk the entire “lake path”, it is about 2.5 miles including the paved road from the parking lot. I recently did this hike with Tessa, 16 months, in an Ergo carrier and was just fine. A workout for sure, but good! Expect to pass many people when the weather is nice, but don’t worry about it being too crowded to enjoy. Some people hustle and some people stop and hang out.
There are a few more difficult trails leading up the surrounding hills (which I have never done, to be honest) if you wanted more of a challenge. But the lake path is perfect for children- it is mostly flat with no hard climbing. Because it’s a lake and the path goes fully around, you can choose to do the circle or turn around at any point and make your way back.
Nashville, TN 37220
The beauty and serenity paired with the easy skill level for all family members maakes Radnor Lake a must see + do. It’s gorgeous, incredibly easy to get to (you can go five minutes down the road and be in Brentwood for lunch), and perfect for a non-challenging stroll. Spend an hour or spend a few hours, up to you. Go by yourself for a brisk workout or take the kiddos and have fun spotting all the creatures, flowers and leaves. My kiddos both love it and sometimes we just stop in for a walk on a whim because it’s so close. If you’re visiting, add it to your list and enjoy the beauty!
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