Radnor Lake Highlights
  • Early Fall Radnor

    • A Sanctuary in the City 

    Radnor Lake State Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Nashville, offers a unique escape into nature. This 1,391-acre natural area provides a haven for wildlife and a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking respite from the urban bustle. Discover the rich history, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife that make Radnor Lake a true gem of Tennessee's state parks.

    Discover Radnor Lake State Park

    The story of Radnor Lake State Park is intertwined with the history of the Louisville and Nashville (L&N) Railroad. In the early 20th century, the railroad constructed a dam to create a reservoir, Radnor Lake, to supply water for its steam engines at Radnor Yards. Over time, the land surrounding the lake became a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, particularly migrating birds. Recognizing its ecological significance, the state of Tennessee established Radnor Lake as a State Natural Area in 1973, preserving its beauty and biodiversity for generations to come. Today, visitors can explore the trails, observe wildlife, and connect with nature in this urban oasis, a testament to the transformative power of conservation.  

    large orange leaved tree hanging over the multch path

    History

    Radnor Lake State Park's history is a fascinating blend of industrial necessity and ecological preservation.

    The land was initially used for farming before the L&N Railroad purchased it between 1914 and 1917 to build a dam and create a water source for their steam engines at Radnor Yards. The lake and surrounding area were named after these railyards.  

    The dam complex, still visible today, tells the story of industrialization in the area and the beginnings of what allowed Radnor Yards to become a major rail hub in the early 1900s. As steam engines were phased out, the need for the reservoir diminished, and the land gradually transformed into a haven for wildlife.  

    Recognizing the area's unique ecological value, conservationists and local area residents advocated for its preservation. In 1973, their efforts culminated in the establishment of Radnor Lake as a State Natural Area, protecting its diverse flora and fauna.  

    Today, visitors can explore the Valve House Trail which features signage detailing the park’s historic connection to the railroad. The Walter Criley Visitor Center houses exhibits that showcase the park’s history including its Native American heritage as well as the story of former caretaker Carrie McElyea. 

    From the Rangers

      • Young person in a colorful jacket studies a "State Parks" map beside a tranquil lake with snow-dusted hills, evoking exploration and tranquility.

      The Perfect Day

      Begin your day with a hike along the Lake Trail-Otter Creek Road Loop, taking in the scenic views of Radnor Lake and the surrounding natural area. Be sure to stop at the observation decks to view the bald eagle nest. On Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 am to 1 pm, visit the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center to view non-releasable birds of prey, venomous and non-venomous snakes, and turtles along the 550-foot boardwalk.  

      • Turtles resting on logs in a calm forest pond.

      Insider Information

      Radnor Lake State Park is renowned as a top destination in the southeastern United States for viewing migrating birds during the spring and fall. For a less crowded experience, plan your visit between 6 AM and 9 AM CST. Explore the lesser-traveled Ganier Ridge and South Cove Trails for a more secluded hike.  

      • Visitor Center

      Know Before You Go

      When planning your visit to Radnor Lake, keep in mind that cell service can be limited in certain areas, particularly the east parking lot and along the Ganier Ridge and South Cove Trails. if using a ride-share, it's best to be dropped off and picked up at the visitor center due to limited cell service in east lot. There is no public Wi-Fi available in the park. Also, note that pets, running, and bikes are only allowed on Otter Creek Road, Hall Drive, and the dam. All other trails are closed to these activities.  

    Land and Water

      • trail

      Trails

      Radnor Lake boasts a network of trails that wind through diverse habitats, offering visitors opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. The Lake Trail is a popular choice, providing scenic views of the lake and a chance to spot white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey and barred owls. The Ganier Ridge Trail offers a more challenging hike with a steep incline.

      • Binocular viewer facing a lake with forested hills in the background.

      Mountains and Vistas

      Radnor Lake State Park offers a unique vista from the peak of Ganier Ridge. The Lake Trail Observation Deck provides a southeastern view over the lake and the protected state natural area.  

      • radnor lake in the winter with bare treeline and calm lake view

      Water Feature

      Radnor Lake itself is the park's central water feature, a reservoir created in the early 20th century. Otter Creek flows through the park, providing critical water and enhancing wildlife observation opportunities for visitors along the Lake Trail, the Otter Creek Road hiking loop, and the Spillway Trail. Swimming and wading are not allowed in the lake or creeks.  

    • Close-up of a vibrant purple thistle flower with spiky petals, set against a blurred background of lush greenery and soft sunlight.
    • bee feeding on the pollen of a daisy
    • purple-pink flower bunch
    • yellow sprigs of flowers

    Plants

    Radnor Lake's diverse flora transforms with the seasons.

    In spring, the South Cove Trail bursts into color with wildflowers. Throughout the park, you'll find a variety of trees that are colorful in their own way. Talk to a Park Ranger to learn more about the unique plant life and the park's conservation efforts.  

    Plant Types

    • Dutchman’s Breeches
    • Dwarf Larkspur
    • Mayapple
    • Purple Phacelia
    • Trout Lillies
    • Eastern Red Cedar
    • Hackberry
    • Red Maple
    • White Oak
    • Celandine Poppy
    • Spring Beauty
    • Sweet Betsy
    • Yellow Wood

    Birds

    Radnor Lake State Park and Natural Area provides seven plus miles of trails and roadway that meander through oak-hickory forest and lake shore, with 236 bird species reported in the State Natural Area.

    During the spring and fall, migration is substantial, with warblers (37 species have been reported), vireos, and flycatchers, allowing for superb chances to see many non-resident species. Winter months provide outstanding opportunities to see waterfowl (24 species have been reported), with the lake being a stopover location for migrating ducks.

    • birds

    Bird Species

    • Barred Owl
    • Bay-breasted Warbler
    • Belted Kingfisher
    • Black Vulture
    • Blackpoll Warbler
    • Blue Grosbeak
    • Canada Goose
    • Cerulean Warbler
    • Common Yellowthroat
    • Double-crested Cormorant
    • Eastern Kingbird
    • Eastern Phoebe
    • Eastern Wood-Pewee
    • Great Blue Heron
    • Great Crested Flycatcher
    • Hermit Thrush
    • Hooded Merganser
    • Pied-billed Grebe
    • Indigo Bunting
    • Killdeer
    • Northern Rough-winged Swallow
    • Osprey
    • Pileated Woodpecker
    • Prothonotary Warbler
    • Purple Martin
    • Red-bellied Woodpecker
    • Red-eyed Vireo
    • Scarlet Tanager
    • Song Sparrow
    • Spotted Sandpiper
    • Summer Tanager
    • Swainson’s Thrush
    • Tree Swallow
    • Swamp Sparrow
    • Turkey Vulture
    • Waterfowl
    • White-breasted Nuthatch
    • White-throated Sparrow
    • Wild Turkey
    • Wood Thrush
    • Yellow Warbler
    • Bald Eagle
    • Green Heron
    • Wood Duck
    • Hooded Warbler

    Birding at Radnor Lake

    Find the best spots to view our many species of birds that call Radnor Lake home, plus migratory birds that stop by to visit.

    Go to Birding Page
    • A serene lake scene with a great blue heron spreading its wings in flight, while a doe and fawn stand nearby on the lush green shore, exuding tranquility.

    Animals

    A great place to view migratory birds, Radnor Lake is a haven for wildlife.

    Visit the park to observe a variety of species in their natural habitat.  

    Animal Species

    • Double-crested Cormorant
    • River Otters
    • Muskrats
    • Beavers
    • Eastern Chipmunk
    • Eastern Gray Squirrel
    • Raccoon
    • White-tailed Deer
    • Red-eared Sliders
    • Mink

    Inspiration

    Get Inspired

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