Bald Eagles & Snowy Trails- Winter Beauty at Radnor Lake {Tennessee}


There are two kinds of people when it snows in Tennessee. The first rush to the grocery stores, stocking up on supplies to hibernate for a few days. The second head straight outside, eager to enjoy the rare winter wonderland. It should come as no surprise that we fall into the second group.

When we get a snow day, we spend it at one of the state parks, soaking in the quiet beauty of a snowy landscape. This time, we chose Radnor Lake State Park, just outside of Nashville. A walk around the lake felt like the perfect way to spend a winter day.

Snow-covered landscape view of a river and surrounding trees, with a wooden overlook in the foreground.- Radnor Lake in winter

Radnor Lake isn’t just a state park—it’s a preservation area, and that comes with some special rules. Dogs aren’t allowed on the trails, running is prohibited, and visitors must stay on the designated paths.

A snowy landscape featuring a lake surrounded by trees. In the foreground, a wooden sign reads 'FRAGILE ECOSYSTEM STAY ON THE TRAIL ALL OFF TRAIL USE PROHIBITED.'- Radnor Lake in winter

These rules protect the park’s diverse and fragile ecosystems, including the large number of bald eagles that nest along the lake. We were surprised to learn that this part of Tennessee is such a favorite nesting spot. Even with the trees bare, we could see the massive eagle nests tucked high in the branches, though we didn’t spot any eagles on this visit.

A snowy landscape featuring a lake surrounded by snow-covered trees and a cloudy sky.

Walking around the lake in the snow was magical. The landscape transformed entirely, and even familiar trails took on a new, quiet beauty. On the far side of the lake, an old road—closed to cars—meanders along the shore. Some parts have eroded into the water, so we stayed near the center of the path.

Snow-covered walkway beside a frozen lake, lined with trees, with a person walking in the distance.

Along the way, we spotted snowmen thoughtfully placed by fellow visitors—on fence posts, large rocks, and even on the viewing platforms overlooking the lake. Each one added a whimsical touch to the serene scene.

A serene winter landscape featuring a calm lake surrounded by snow-covered trees and mountains under a cloudy sky.

It was hard to believe anyone would stay inside on a day like this. For us, every step brought fresh air, quiet reflection, and breathtaking views. Radnor Lake is beautiful any time of year, but in the winter, it feels just a little more magical.

Want to see some other Tennessee state parks in the snow? Then check out these:

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Old Stone Fort State Park

Tims Ford State Park

Thanks for coming along on this wintery visit to Radnor Lake State Park. May you feel revived with fresh air and a walk through the snow.


Upcoming Destinations:

California

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For More Information:

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25 responses to “Bald Eagles & Snowy Trails- Winter Beauty at Radnor Lake {Tennessee}”

  1. ourcrossings Avatar

    Wow, these are such beautiful winter photos, Meg 🙂

    When it comes to winter and snow, I definately belong in the second category, too as with shorter days and plunging temperatures comes unique natural splendour. There’s a certain magic when the stillness of the frozen air heightens each of the senses, making the little details of a glimmering blanket of snow or a cardinal’s song even more inspiring.

    Though the days are the shortest, they are still filled with natural wonder. Unfortunately, we barely had snow in Ireland this year and that’s why I am immensely enjoying your post with all the beautifully crafted winter photos.

    Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      I love a good wintery day. We don’t get a lot of snowy days here in Tennessee, so when they happen they seem like a beautiful gift. 🙂 Thanks Aiva! xx

      1. ourcrossings Avatar

        🥰🥰🥰

  2. Monkey's Tale Avatar

    Nice to have this protected area so close. Why is running not allowed? I understand the other rules, but that seems strange. Maggie

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      It’s a great place to have so close. My only guess about the no running rules is that it tears up the trail. But we learned that the fine for running is larger than brining your dog to the park.

      1. Monkey's Tale Avatar

        Even stranger!

  3. Travels Through My Lens Avatar

    I’m with you, Meg, in the second group. I love being outside and enjoying the snow. Your photos are absolutely stunning and have captured the winter wonderland beautifully. And 🦅 eagles! We ave a lot here in the PNW and I never tire of seeing them.

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      Thank you! I’m sure it is a thrill every time you see eagles. Now that I know they like it here in Tennessee I’m going to have to start looking out for them more 🙂

  4. The Chronicles of History Avatar

    A winter wonderland indeed! I really wish I could take a walk with you and your family Meg, this looks so serene and lovely!

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      We would love to have you join us anytime for a walk 🙂 Radnor Lake is really pretty in any season, but I think my favorite was seeing it in the snow.

  5. Diana Avatar

    It’s so beautiful! I love landscapes dusted in snow. What a great way to spend a snow day, and a bonus to see the adorable little snowmen ⛄️

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      me too, landscapes take on an entirely different view with a little bit of snow. The snowmen were just a cute addition to the day 🙂

  6. thehungrytravellers.blog Avatar

    We did this exact walk when in Nashville last year…not in snow of course. Was a lovely walk and a nice change of scenery after city time. (Saw an eagle too)….

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      How lucky that you saw one of the eagles! We were pretty excited to see nests, but seeing the eagles would have been a real thrill. It’s such a great park- I’m glad you got to enjoy it while you were here 🙂

  7. Tanja Avatar

    Beautiful snowy walk

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      Thank you, we rarely get snow here so when we do it is just lovely 🙂

      1. Tanja Avatar

        Same here

  8. The Travel Architect Avatar

    It’s shocking (and wrong) that Minnesota and Tennessee have about the same amount of snow! Glad you got out and enjoyed it. It’s very pretty.

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      That is crazy! Weird weather days all around. The park in the snow was really pretty.

  9. Toonsarah Avatar

    I’m not a fan of snow in cities but in a park like this it can be beautiful 🙂 The trees look lovely and the snowmen are fun!

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      Snow in the cities is hard because of all the people driving in it, especially here where we don’t get a lot of snow so people are crazy dangerous driving in it. But the park was the perfect place to enjoy the pretty views of winter 🙂

  10. travelling_han Avatar

    It’s really beautiful, the snow is just magical 🙂

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      agreed, that little bit of snow makes everything feel magical 🙂

  11. WanderingCanadians Avatar

    The snowy landscape looks so pretty. Sounds like you made the most of all that snow. Love the family photo!

    1. grandmisadventures Avatar

      Thank you! 🙂 We do love when we get a snow day that we can enjoy.

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