It’s not hard to fall in love with the autumnal colors of Middle Tennessee. While some say the “best” colors pop out the third week of October into November, the changing colors are a treat no matter what time you catch them. “Leaf peeping” can be done near or far, with amazing colors lining everywhere from our neighborhood lakes to our state parks. Here are a few of our favorite places to enjoy the changing season:
For a quick drive and a simple walk of sheer beauty, Radnor Lake is 100% worth the trip. If you’re lucky enough to catch your walk in a time that the lake is still enough for reflection, you get to see double the fall colors by the life-size reflection of trees in the lake. Quick tip: Radnor Lake has limited parking, so going on weekdays or non-peak weekend hours will be your best bet.
Perfect for more of a “road trip” vibe, the Natchez Trace allows you to see the foliage not only from the comfort of your car, but with breathtaking views. Want to maximize your trip? Combine your drive on the Natchez Trace with a stop in Leipers Fork; the perfect small town to get you in the mood for a festive fall weekend.
With 2,600 acres and 42 different types of trees, this state park nestled between Nashville and Lebanon along Percy Priest Lake actually doubles as an arboretum. Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Nashville and plenty of picnic spots to claim, Long Hunter is a potential fall escape waiting to happen.
40 minutes west of Nashville in Dickson County, this fully loaded State Park has something for every type of fall park go-er. With modern cabins and plenty of campsites, Montgomery Bell is one you can easily spend the weekend at. Equipped with a golf course, hiking and mountain biking trails, plus three lakes, there’s plenty to stay active with.
Sought after as one of the most picturesque lakes in Tennessee, Tims Ford State Park is another haven for a fall leaf retreat. There are cabins along the lake and camping accessible on all six islands that the park encompasses. Tims Ford is also equipped with boat rentals, a golf course and is known as one of the top bass fishing in the southeast.
