City Lake Natural Area — Attraction in Tennessee

City Lake Natural Area is seriously one of my favorite little hidden spots. It’s not super big or fancy, but that’s exactly what makes it so great—it’s quiet, peaceful, and full of charm. If you’re looking for a low-key place to get outside and enjoy nature without a crowd, this is it.

There’s a short hiking trail that loops through the woods, and while it’s not a long hike, it’s really pretty. In the parking lot there’s a deck where you can stop and just soak in the view of the lake. It’s a great place to sit for a while and watch for birds, turtles, or just enjoy the stillness. One time, I even saw an owl sitting up on a branch—it was amazing!

You’ll also probably see chipmunks and squirrels while you’re out there. I've seen chipmunks dash across the road near the waterfall and squirrels play-fighting in the trees more than once. There’s always something cool to see if you take your time.

If you’re into fishing, there are plenty of spots around the lake to cast a line. Just a heads up though—I wouldn’t eat anything you catch here. It’s more for the experience than the dinner. Still, it’s super relaxing to just sit and fish while enjoying the view.

There are some picnic tables scattered around if you want to bring a lunch or snack, but keep in mind there are no restrooms at all. So definitely plan ahead for that.

Overall, City Lake Natural Area is a sweet little escape when you need a break from the hustle. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just chilling out by the water, it’s definitely worth checking out. It feels like one of those places that not a lot of people know about—but once you go, you’ll want...

Place is generally too packed to ever get a moment to yourself. There's way better spots around here that are beyond relaxing and much more beautiful but it seems that this is the place to be for some reason. Would be better if the structures weren't gated off. Phenomenal photography could be had. Pointless that the smaller brick building is sealed.

Place feels too urban. Wish the path wasn't gravel, pavement or nothing but dirt. would be better. Sucks to bike in with a bike like mine Go off the trail and you will find some beautiful stone ruins on the creek. More exciting than the waterfall / locked buildings imo.

Photo is an Adorable little flooded cave that goes maybe 40 feet back AFAIK all you can do is have a fun crawl in and out and sit at the rock landing. Very peaceful if you want to get away, relax, and be alone. Unlike the rest of the park lol

Tried posting shots of the cave but Google butchered it. Go off the beaten path and explore if you're new here :) I'm sure this isn't a secret to the veterans...

My daughter, granddaughter and myself went on a hike here back to the waterfall. It is about a mile back and forth all together. Family friendly. Not too steep or hard to climb or anything. There were some small children and even a couple with a stroller. It is paved about 3/4th the way and then small gravel. Trees and the sound of the waterfall greet you on the trip in. On the way out, my granddaughter found a toad that she was fascinated with. We saw dancing beach afides covering most of a bush and part of a tree and some were on the underbrush. It was amazing! We had never seen anything like that before. Didn't know what it was and had to Google it. We met some nice people on our hike back to the waterfall. God sure does make wonderful things for us to...