ATLnature

ATLnature is your guide to Atlanta's trails and other rad nature stuff in the city. Live in the city but miss hiking on the weekends? Don’t have time (or a car!) for a trip to north Georgia? Did you know there are over 30 nature trails inside the perimeter of 285 alone?

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intrenchment-creek.png

Intrenchment Creek Park

Intrenchment Creek Trail
September 06, 2022 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Intrenchment Creek Park is the western end of the South River PATH trail. It is also home to an RC Airfield.

Address: West Side Pl, Atlanta, GA 30316
Cost of admission: None
Governance: DeKalb County
Acres: 125
Approximate miles of trails: 2
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 6
MARTA directions: From Inman Park-Reynoldstown Station, take the 32 to Bouldercrest Rd SE@Westside Pl. From there, walk northwest along Bouldercrest. Turn left on West Side Place. The entrance to the trail is clearly marked on the right. Walking distance from bus stop to trailhead approximately 0.2 miles.
Parking: Parking is available at the trailhead on West Side Place. Two handicap accessible spaces are available.
Trail surface: Approximately 0.5 miles of PATH trail (continues beyond the park for about 5 miles) and approximately 1.5 miles of unpaved trails
Geocaching: Yes
Dogs allowed: Yes

Amenities:

  • Picnic pavilion

Links:

  • South River PATH Trail

  • Atlanta Radio Control Club

  • Save the Old Atlanta Prison Farm

Note: The area of land highlighted in this blog post is all east of Intrenchment Creek. West of the creek is the land associated with the Old Atlanta Prison Farm. No trespassing is allowed in the prison farm buildings, and the area is frequently patrolled by the police. You may see that OpenStreetMap has marked land west of the creek as “City of Atlanta greenspace – keep out”. I haven’t heard of anyone getting in trouble for being on the trails west of the creek as long as they stay away from the buildings, but it might be best to stay east of the creek. There is no bridge across the creek between the two properties.

November 11, 2018

November 11, 2018

Cladonia peziziformis, November 11, 2018

Cladonia peziziformis, November 11, 2018

November 11, 2018

November 11, 2018

November 11, 2018

November 11, 2018

Green Anole, November 11, 2018

Green Anole, November 11, 2018

November 11, 2018

November 11, 2018

Intrenchment Creek, June 7, 2015

Intrenchment Creek, June 7, 2015


Good to combine with

Featured
Southside Park
Southside Park
Constitution Lakes
Constitution Lakes
Brownwood Park
Brownwood Park
September 06, 2022 /Shawn Taylor
near bus-5 min page 2, near: brownwood park, near: southside park, near: constitution lakes, atlanta page 4, multi-use path, free admission, itp page 2, near downtown-10 miles, allows dogs
parks
2 Comments
westside park.png

Westside Park

westside reservoir park
August 22, 2021 by Shawn Taylor in parks

The Westside Park grand opening was held in August 2021. The former Bellwood Quarry has been converted into a reservoir for City of Atlanta water.

Bellwood Quarry was established in the 1890s to provide granite to the city and surrounding areas. The site was originally a Fulton County convict labor camp. More recently, the quarry was run by corporations. The city purchased the land from the quarry operator, Vulcan Materials, in 2006. This column by Sundiata Rush for the Saporta Report includes some more information about the history of the site.

A number of movies & TV shows have been filmed at the quarry, including The Hunger Games and Stranger Things.

As of August 2021, with only Phase 1 complete, almost all of the trails are paved and wide. The master plan calls for 4.1 miles of natural-surface walking trails and 3.2 miles of natural-surface mountain biking trails in a future phase.

Also known as: Bellwood Quarry Park
Address: 1660 Johnson Road Northwest, Atlanta, GA
Cost of admission: Free
Governance: City of Atlanta
Acres: 280
Approximate miles of trails: 2.5
Hours: 6am to 11pm
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 3.4
Transit directions: Take MARTA to Bankhead Station and use the Proctor Creek Greenway to connect to the park. Or take MARTA bus #26 from Bankhead Station to Perry Blvd NW & Johnson Rd NW. Walk about 0.2 miles southwest on Johnson Road to the park entrance.
Cycling directions: The park trails connect to the Proctor Creek Greenway
Parking: There are two large parking lots available, off of Johnson Road
Trailhead(s): The two main entrances on Johnson Road are clearly marked and visible from the road. Trailheads are clearly marked from these parking lots. There’s also neighborhood connectivity via Grove Park Place.
Trail surface: Many of the trails are paved and ADA accessible
Blazes/markings: Trails are paved and most intersections have maps
Restrooms: Yes
Dogs allowed: Yes, on leash

Amenities:

  • Restrooms

  • Pavilions

  • Water fountains

  • Playground

  • Scenic overlooks

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • MARTA rail station

Links:

  • Westside Park

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

August 22, 2021

More photos on Flickr:

Westside Park - all

From around the web:

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist
View more observations near Westside Park on iNaturalist »

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Featured
Proctor Creek Greenway
Proctor Creek Greenway
August 22, 2021 /Shawn Taylor
near: proctor creek greenway, atlanta page 4, near bus-5 min page 2, multi-use path, free admission, near downtown-5 miles, allows dogs
parks
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umch.png

Decatur Legacy Park (Former United Methodist Children's Home)

E Decatur Greenway
May 15, 2021 by Shawn Taylor in parks

This land was purchased by the City of Decatur from the United Methodist Children's Home in 2017 when they moved to Tucker. The park is partly developed with buildings, a playground, and playing fields, and also has nature trails around the lake and a community garden. The East Decatur Greenway is adjacent to the park.

Address: 500 S Columbia Drive, Decatur GA 30030
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of Decatur
Acres: 77
Approximate miles of trails: 3
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 7
MARTA directions: Leave Avondale Station via the pedestrian bridge to E College Ave. Once the bridge ends, turn left. Walk through the parking lot to the trailhead for the PATH.
Cycling directions: Coming from Avondale Station, follow the same directions as above. Alternatively, bike the Stone Mountain PATH to Avondale Station and then use the MARTA pedestrian bridge or Sams Crossing road to connect to E College Ave.
Parking: Parking is available along the dirt road on the southeast side of the ball fields. 
Trailheads: The unpaved trails begin at the parking area and also at two spots along the PATH
Trail surface: PATH is paved, other trails are natural surface
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Global Growers' Decatur's Kitchen Garden

Links:

  • “Decatur completes purchase of United Methodist Children's Home," Decaturish, August 16, 2017

  • “Sale of United Methodist Children's Home Complete," Decatur Metro, August 17, 2017

  • East Decatur Greenway

  • Master Plan

Eastern Pondhawk, May 9, 2021

Eastern Pondhawk, May 9, 2021

April 8, 2018

April 8, 2018

May 9, 2021

May 9, 2021

April 8, 2018

April 8, 2018

April 8, 2018

April 8, 2018

April 8, 2018

April 8, 2018

April 8, 2018

April 8, 2018

Canvasback, February 13, 2019

Canvasback, February 13, 2019

October 26, 2019

October 26, 2019

October 26, 2019

October 26, 2019

More photos on Flickr

Legacy Park - all

From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist
View more observations near Legacy Park - City of Decatur on iNaturalist »

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

Featured
Glenn Creek Nature Preserve
Glenn Creek Nature Preserve
Decatur Cemetery
Decatur Cemetery

Updated February 26, 2019, October 26, 2019 and May 15, 2021

May 15, 2021 /Shawn Taylor
near marta station, near bus-5 min, multi-use path, free admission, itp, near downtown-10 miles, 3+ miles of trails, atlanta page 4, near: decatur cemetery, near: glynn creek
parks
Comment
ksu.png

KSU Sports & Recreation Park Lakeside Trail

November 11, 2019 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Also known as: Kennesaw State University--Sports and Recreation Park; The Walking Trail
Address: 393 Big Shanty Rd NW, Marietta, GA 30066
Cost of admission: Free
Governance: Kennesaw State University
Acres: 88
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Hours: Daylight hours
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 22
Transit directions: Take the CobbLinc Rapid 10 from Arts Center Station to Busbee Park & Ride. Cross George Busbee Pkwy NW at Big Shanty Rd NW to access the trail
Parking: Parking is available at several areas around the park, although it might vary depending on what sporting events are happening
Trail surface: Paved
Dogs allowed: Yes, on leash
Fishing allowed: No

Amenities:

  • Picnic tables

  • Ball fields & volleyball pits available for those with a KSU ID

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • A couple restaurants across Big Shanty Rd

Song Sparrow, November 11, 2019

Song Sparrow, November 11, 2019

Blue Jay, November 11, 2019

Blue Jay, November 11, 2019

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, November 11, 2019

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, November 11, 2019

Nelson Lake, November 11, 2019

Nelson Lake, November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with

Featured
Noonday Creek Trail
Noonday Creek Trail
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
November 11, 2019 /Shawn Taylor
birding, near bus-5 min page 2, atlanta page 4, multi-use path, free admission, north metro, allows dogs, near: noonday creek trail, near: kennesaw mountain
parks
Comment
noonday-creek.png

Noonday Creek Trail

Noonday Creek Trail
November 11, 2019 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address: 3015 Bells Ferry Rd NE, Marietta, GA 30066
Cost of admission: Free
Approximate miles of trails: This post covers 2 miles each direction, but the trail extends on beyond that, mostly adjacent to roads
Hours: Unknown
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 21
Transit directions: The CobbLinc #40 and #45 stop at several places in the area. The CobbLinc Rapid #10 stops at Busbee Park & Ride, which is fairly accessible via multi-use paths and adjacent to KSU Recreation Park
Parking: Parking is available at the east end of the trail, at the Bells Ferry trailhead
Trail surface: Paved

Amenities:

  • Restrooms & water fountains at eastern trailhead

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • Town Center Mall

Noonday Creek, November 11, 2019

Noonday Creek, November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

Red-shouldered Hawk, November 11, 2019

Red-shouldered Hawk, November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

Zagster Bike Share, November 11, 2019

Zagster Bike Share, November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

November 11, 2019

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with

Featured
KSU Sports & Recreation Park Lakeside Trail
KSU Sports & Recreation Park Lakeside Trail
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
November 11, 2019 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, near bus-5 min page 2, multi-use path, free admission, north metro, near: ksu recreation park, near: kennesaw mountain
parks
Comment
ashford.png

Ashford Forest Preserve

Ashford Forest Preserve
October 26, 2019 by Shawn Taylor in parks

This land was formerly a protection area for DeKalb-Peachtree (PDK) airport's east-west runway. The former runway signals can be seen throughout the park. Since the airport stopped using that runway, the land has sat unused. In 2017, the city of Brookhaven purchased the land for preservation.

There are three trailheads: Park Lane, Skyland Drive, and Clairmont Road. Only the Clairmont Road trailhead is clearly marked in a way that is visible from the road.

Park Lane trailhead
Park Lane trailhead
Clairmont Road parking lot
Clairmont Road parking lot
Skyland Drive trailhead
Skyland Drive trailhead

Also known as: PDK Greenspace
Address (approximate): 3890 Clairmont Rd, Brookhaven, GA 30319
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of Brookhaven
Acres: 33
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 9
MARTA directions: From Chamblee Station, take the #19 to North DeKalb Health Center or the Clairmont Rd@Georgian Dr stop. From there, walk north on Clairmont. An unmarked entrance to the greenspace is on the west side of Clairmont.
Cycling directions: Exit Chamblee Station towards New Peachtree Rd (not to be confused with Peachtree Rd). Make a right on New Peachtree Rd and head southwest. Continue as the road makes a sharp left turn and becomes 8th St. Take 8th St until it ends. There, make a left on Skyland Dr. Take the first right on Park Ln. Continue on Park Ln until it dead ends. One of the trailheads is at the end of Park Ln.
Parking: No dedicated parking lot, just neighborhood street parking
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: The trails are blazed with flagging tape
Dogs allowed: Yes, must be on leash
Geocaching: None yet
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Trash can at Skyland Dr. trailhead

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • Adjacent to PDK airport and:

    • The PDK airport playground

    • Downwind Restaurant and Lounge

    • The 57th Fighter Group Restaurant

  • Georgian Hills Park

    • Three playground areas

    • Pavillion

    • Basketball goal

    • Multi-use field

Links:

  • North DeKalb Greenspace Alliance

  • City of Brookhaven

May 2018

May 2018

May 2018

May 2018

May 2018

May 2018

May 2018

May 2018

May 2018

May 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near Ashford Forest Preserve on iNaturalist.org »

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Featured
Mary Scott Nature Park
Mary Scott Nature Park
Murphey Candler Park
Murphey Candler Park

Updated May 23, 2018 and October 26, 2019

October 26, 2019 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, near bus-5 min, free admission, near downtown-10 miles, itp page 2, near: murphey candler
parks
1 Comment
simpsonwood-park.png

Simpsonwood Park

Simpsonwood Park
February 26, 2019 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Simpsonwood Park is named after Ludie Simpson who donated the land to the Methodist Church. This Gwinnett County park borders the Chattahoochee River, directly across the river from the Jones Bridge unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. It has about 5 miles of unpaved trails, including an approximately 3-mile-long loop trail. Although the park land no longer belongs to the Methodist Church, its chapel remains and can be rented for events.

Also known as: Simpsonwood Conference & Retreat Center
Address: 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Peachtree Corners 30092
Cost of admission: None
Governance: Gwinnett County
Acres: 223
Approximate miles of trails: 5.3
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 18
MARTA directions: Not very transit accessible. The park is about two miles from the nearest Xpress bus stop (route 408) or nearest Gwinnett County Transit bus stop (route 35)
Parking: There are two parking lots available at the park
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: Most trails are blazed
Geocaching: Yes
Dogs allowed: Yes
Photography policy: Gwinnett County Parks photography & film rules
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 48 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition)

Amenities:

  • Restrooms

  • Group camping (by reservation)

  • Picnic areas

  • Rentable picnic pavilion

  • Rentable chapel

Links:

Gwinnett County

Note: The creeks on Google Maps and Openstreetmap seem to be slightly off. In the map below, I’ve attempted to include more accurate placements of the creeks. I think there may be some trail segments south of the creek, but all the trail segments shown on this map are north of the creek.

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

Chapel, January 25, 2019

Chapel, January 25, 2019

Ground cedar, January 25, 2019

Ground cedar, January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

Chattahoochee River, January 25, 2019

Chattahoochee River, January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

January 25, 2019

For more photos, see my flickr album.


Good to combine with:

Featured
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Jones Bridge
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Jones Bridge
Garrard Landing Park
Garrard Landing Park
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Medlock Bridge
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Medlock Bridge
February 26, 2019 /Shawn Taylor
near: medlock bridge, near: jones bridge, near: garrard landing, atlanta page 4, free admission, north metro, 5+ miles of trails
parks
1 Comment
rogers-bridge.png

Rogers Bridge Trail

Rogers Bridge Trail
January 30, 2019 by Shawn Taylor in parks
Note: This location will be closed from March 1, 2021 until construction is completed (estimated late summer 2022).

This site consists of a multi-use path (former road) that’s about a mile long, plus an unpaved trail around a retention pond. The fields on either side of the paved trail are open but with no formal paths through them. This is an excellent site for birding.

While the park borders the Chattahoochee River, there is barely any river view from the park.

There are plans to create a 195-acre city park – to be called Cauley Creek Park – to be located on this site, with construction beginning early in 2021.

Please note the potential confusion with Rogers Bridge Park in Duluth, across the river from this trail. The bridge is no longer operational, so the sites are quite far apart by road. Part of the construction project beginning in 2021 will be to reconnect the sites via a pedestrian bridge.

Also known as: Cauley Creek Park
Address: Intersection of Rogers Bridge Rd and Bell Rd, Johns Creek, GA
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of Johns Creek
Acres: Unknown
Approximate miles of trails: 1.3
Hours: Unknown
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 25
Transit directions: This location is not accessible by transit
Parking: There is a small parking lot at the trailhead
Trail surface: Part paved, part natural
Blazes/markings: None

American Wigeon, December 29, 2018

American Wigeon, December 29, 2018

Field Sparrow, December 29, 2018

Field Sparrow, December 29, 2018

Remnants of Rogers Bridge, December 29, 2018

Remnants of Rogers Bridge, December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

December 29, 2018

White-tailed Deer, December 29, 2018

White-tailed Deer, December 29, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

Featured
Shorty Howell Park
Shorty Howell Park
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Medlock Bridge
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Medlock Bridge
January 30, 2019 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, free admission, north metro, birding, near: medlock bridge, near: shorty howell
parks
Comment
roswell-area-park.png

Roswell Area Park

Roswell Area Park
January 23, 2019 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Also known as: Roswell Park
Address:
10495 Woodstock Rd, Roswell, GA 30075
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of Roswell
Friends of the Park Group: Friends of the Roswell Parks
Acres: 80
Approximate miles of trails: 2
Hours: Unknown; trails are lit
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 20
MARTA directions: From North Springs Station, take the 85 bus to the Alpharetta St@Woodstock St. stop. Walk northwest on Woodstock St for 0.8 miles. The park entrance will be on the right.
Parking: Parking is plentiful at the park
Trailhead(s): There are several trailheads along the parking lots and roads
Trail surface: Mostly wide gravel, some paved, some sidewalk
Blazes/markings: There are some mile markers for the various running routes
Geocaching: Yes
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fishing allowed: Yes - catch and release only
Photography policy: Permit policy
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Ball fields

  • Swimming pool

  • Restrooms

  • Outdoor fitness equipment

  • Picnic pavilions

  • Playground

Links:

  • City of Roswell

Chipping Sparrow, January 1, 2019

Chipping Sparrow, January 1, 2019

January 1, 2019

January 1, 2019

January 1, 2019

January 1, 2019

January 1, 2019

January 1, 2019

January 1, 2019

January 1, 2019

White-breasted Nuthatch, January 1, 2019

White-breasted Nuthatch, January 1, 2019

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near Roswell Area Park on iNaturalist.org »

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

Featured
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Vickery Creek
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Vickery Creek
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Allenbrook
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Allenbrook
Old Mill Park
Old Mill Park
January 23, 2019 /Shawn Taylor
near: old mill park, near: vickery creek, near: allenbrook, atlanta page 4, free admission, north metro, allows dogs
parks
Comment
heritage-park.png

Heritage Park

Heritage Park Trail
January 22, 2019 by Shawn Taylor in parks

This Cobb County park has an out-and-back boardwalk and natural surface trail that follows Nickajack Creek. The trail’s northwest end connects to the Silver Comet Trail near Concord Road.

Near the west end of the trail stand the ruins of the Concord Woolen Mill. The mill originally opened in 1847, was burned by Sherman’s troops, after which it was rebuilt once and then again after a second fire in 1889. The mill was abandoned in 1916. [1] A “ghost frame” was added in 1996 to stabilize the ruins. Extensive in-depth information about the mill is available at the Concord Covered Bridge website.

Speaking of the Concord Covered Bridge, it is located nearby on Concord Road and is still in use for vehicular traffic.

Also known as: Heritage Park Trail
Address: 60 Fontaine Road, Mableton, GA 30126
Cost of admission: None
Governance: Cobb County
Acres: Approx. 110
Approximate miles of trails: 1.8 mile each way out-and-back
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 11
Cycling directions: There’s a trailhead along the Silver Comet Trail
Parking: Parking is available along the trailhead at Fontaine Rd. and Nickajack Rd. Alternatively, you can park at the Silver Comet Trail’s Concord Road trailhead and walk southeast on the Silver Comet for about 1/3 mile to the Heritage Park trailhead.
Trailhead(s): There is one trailhead near the intersection of Fontaine Rd. and Nickajack Rd., and a second trailhead along the Silver Comet Trail.
Trail surface: Natural and boardwalk
Blazes/markings: None, but the trail is wide enough to be clear
Dogs allowed: Yes
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 25 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition)

Amenities:

  • Pavilions

  • Restrooms (closed when below freezing)

Links:

  • Cobb County Parks

  • Georgia Native Plant Society Workdays

  • Concord Woolen Mills

January 21, 2019

January 21, 2019

January 21, 2019

January 21, 2019

January 21, 2019

January 21, 2019

Carolina Chickadee, January 21, 2019

Carolina Chickadee, January 21, 2019

Concord Woolen Mill Ruins, January 21, 2019

Concord Woolen Mill Ruins, January 21, 2019

Carolina Wren, January 21, 2019

Carolina Wren, January 21, 2019

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near Heritage Park on iNaturalist.org »

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

Featured
Spink-Collins Park
Spink-Collins Park
January 22, 2019 /Shawn Taylor
near: spink-collins, atlanta page 4, free admission, near downtown-15 miles, allows dogs, west metro
parks
Comment
shorty-howell.png

Shorty Howell Park

Shorty Howell Park
December 21, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address: 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd, Duluth, GA 30096
Cost of admission: None
Governance: Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation
Acres: 67
Approximate miles of trails: 3
Hours: Park is open sunrise to 11:00pm, trails are open sunrise to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 21
Transit directions: From Doraville Station, take the Gwinnett County Transit Bus 10B to the N Berkeley Lake Road & Wal-Mart stop. From there, head east on N Berkeley Lake Road. Once you reach the intersection with Pleasant Hill Rd, you can either turn left and enter via the main park entrance on the right, or you can go straight on Hill Drive and walk into the park (unpaved).
Parking: Parking is plentiful in the park
Trail surface: 1.25 mile paved loop with mile markers every 1/4 mile plus about a mile of unpaved trails and some other short paved trail or sidewalk segments
Dogs allowed: Yes
Photography policy: Gwinnett County Parks
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Pavilion

  • Grills

  • Ball fields

  • Playgrounds

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • Restaurants

  • Gas station

  • Walmart

Links:

  • Gwinnett County Parks

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, December 15, 2018

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

Ruby-crowned Kinglet, December 15, 2018

Ruby-crowned Kinglet, December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

Hooded Merganser, December 15, 2018

Hooded Merganser, December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

Great Blue Heron, December 15, 2018

Great Blue Heron, December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

December 15, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.


Good to combine with

Featured
Rogers Bridge Trail
Rogers Bridge Trail
McDaniel Farm Park
McDaniel Farm Park
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Medlock Bridge
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Medlock Bridge
December 21, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
near: mcdaniel farm, atlanta page 4, near bus-10 min, multi-use path, free admission, north metro, allows dogs, near: rogers bridge
parks
Comment
mcdaniel-farm-park.png

McDaniel Farm Park

McDaniel Farm Park
November 12, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

McDaniel Farm Park was sold in the 1820 land lottery. It was a subsistence farm and was farmed until 1999. The farm buildings represent a typical farm from the 1930s.

This park is a popular spot with photographers for engagement and family photos. Information about commercial photography is available here.

Address: 3251 McDaniel Rd, Duluth, GA 30096
Cost of admission: None
Governance: Gwinnett County
Acres: 134
Approximate miles of trails: 3 miles paved, 1 mile unpaved
Hours: The park is open dawn to dusk daily; the farm area is open 10-4 daily
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 21
Transit directions: From Doraville Station, take the Gwinnett County Transit bus 10A or 10B to the Gwinnett Transit Center. From there, it is a 12-minute walk to the park. From the transit center, head right on Satellite Blvd. Head left on Old Norcross Road. Then take a right on McDaniel Road and continue to the end of the road. There are sidewalks the whole way.
If you have a Breeze card, you can add cash to it for your trips there and back, or use GCT (but not MARTA) “trips” on the card. Fare information is available here. The 10A and 10B are considered “local” rides.
Trailhead(s): There are multiple trailheads at each of the two parking lots. On both ends of the parks, McDaniel Rd dead-ends at the park. The south parking lot is at 3251 McDaniel Rd (coming from Old Norcross Rd), and the north parking lot is at 3020 McDaniel Rd (coming from Duluth Hwy).
Parking is available at both parking lots, including accessible parking and bike racks at both. Bus parking is also available at the south parking lot.
Trail surface: Approximately 3 miles paved, approximately 1 mile natural, and approximately 0.5 miles gravel
Geocaching: Yes
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fishing allowed: Yes
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 49 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition) and chapter 42 in 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles (3rd edition)

Amenities:

  • Two rentable picnic pavilions and assorted other picnic tables

  • Restrooms and water fountains at both the north and south end of the park

  • Small and large dog parks

  • Playground

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • Gwinnett Place Mall is nearby

Links:

  • Gwinnett County

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

November 10, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near McDaniel Farm Park on iNaturalist.org »

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

Featured
Shorty Howell Park
Shorty Howell Park
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Medlock Bridge
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Medlock Bridge
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve
November 12, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, near: medlock bridge, near: autrey mill, multi-use path, free admission, north metro, allows dogs, dog park, 3+ miles of trails, near: shorty howell
parks
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Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Jones Bridge

Jones Bridge Unit
October 20, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Jones Bridge (formerly Jones Ferry) was constructed in 1904. It fell into disrepair in the 1930s and was partially dismantled sometime between then and 1960. The remains of the bridge were a highlight of both this park and Jones Bridge Park on the other side of the river until the remains of the bridge collapsed and were disassembled in January 2018. Today, nothing remains of the historic bridge.

The Jones Bridge Unit is home to the Chattahoochee River Environmental Education Center (CREEC) at 9101 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek. Parking is available at CREEC, but only when it is open for events.

Also known as: Jones Bridge Unit
Address: 8615 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek, GA 30022
Cost of admission: Free, $5/day parking fee per car; annual pass available
Governance: NPS
Acres: Approximately 150
Approximate miles of trails: 4
Hours: Dawn to dusk; exact park hours are posted at the trailheads
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 19
MARTA directions: Take the 140 or 141 from North Springs Station to Mansell Park & Ride (the first stop). From there, walk across the parking lot to the other bus station, near the on-ramp for GA-400. Transfer to the 142 (only runs on weekdays). Take the bus to Holcomb Bridge Rd @ Nesbit Ferry Rd. From there, walk southeast on Holcomb Bridge to Barnwell Road. Turn left on Barnwell Road and continue until you see the National Park Service sign for CREEC on the right. The total walking distance from bus stop to trailhead is 1.0 miles. Note: most of this distance lacks sidewalks, so you’ll have to walk in the grass, including navigating a short bridge with no shoulder.
On the return trip, you can wait for the bus at Barnwell and Holcomb Bridge. In this direction, the walking distance from trailhead to bus stop is 0.8 miles.
Parking: Parking is available at the main trailhead.
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: Each intersection is marked with a full park map of the unit
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fishing allowed: Yes
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 60 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition), chapter 40 in 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles (3rd edition), page 36 in Hiking the Hooch (1st edition)

Amenities:

  • Picnic area

  • Restrooms

  • Boat ramp

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • The intersection of Holcomb Bridge and Barnwell has restaurants and a grocery store

Links:

  • NPS map

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

Chattahoochee River, October 18, 2018

Chattahoochee River, October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

Trametes versicolor, October 18, 2018

Trametes versicolor, October 18, 2018

Macrolepiota sp., October 18. 2018

Macrolepiota sp., October 18. 2018

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near Jones Bridge Unit - Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area on iNaturalist.org »

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days

REI Hiking Project


Good to combine with

Featured
Simpsonwood Park
Simpsonwood Park
Garrard Landing Park
Garrard Landing Park
Big Creek Park
Big Creek Park
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Island Ford
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Island Ford
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve
October 20, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, north metro, boat ramp, allows dogs, near: island ford, near: garrard landing, near: big creek park, 3+ miles of trails, near: simpsonwood park
parks
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Garrard Landing Park

Garrard Landing Park
October 20, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Robert McAfee operated a ferry across the river here. In 1834, he received permission to build a toll bridge at the same site. That bridge was burned during the civil war, and rebuilt in 1906. In 1960, the bridge was replaced with the current Holcomb Bridge Road.

T.H. Ellard bought the Garrard Landing Park land along the Chattahoochee River in the early 1920s. The Garrards and Ellards refused to sell their land, and thanks to Larry Garrard it became a park.

The Johns Creek Environmental Campus borders the park. It is a wastewater treatment plant and educational facility that utilizes state-of-the-art technology. The Environmental Campus has a native plant garden adjacent to it.

One section of trail in this park is a remnant of Alabama Road.

Also known as: Johns Creek Environmental Campus
Address: 8000 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell, GA 30075
Cost of admission: Free
Governance: City of Roswell
Acres: Approximately 40
Approximate miles of trails: 2
Hours: Unknown
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 17
MARTA directions: Take the 140 or 141 from North Springs Station to Mansell Park & Ride (the first stop). From there, walk across the parking lot to the other bus station, near the on-ramp for GA-400. Transfer to the 142 (only runs on weekdays). Take the bus to Holcomb Bridge Rd @ Spalding Dr. From there, walk northwest on Holcomb Bridge (back the way you came) for 0.6 miles. After you cross the Chattahoochee River, the park is the first entrance on the left. Note: most of the 0.6 miles lacks sidewalks, so you’ll have to walk in the grass.
Parking: Free parking is available at the park
Trail surface: Mostly wide gravel trails, with a few sections along the pond being paved, and a couple of natural-surface spur paths. On the included map, paved trails are wide and grey; gravel trails are less wide and green.
Dogs allowed: Yes, with many poop stations along the trails
Fishing allowed: Unknown
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Picnic pavilion (reservable)

  • Playground

  • Restrooms & water fountains

  • Dog poop stations

  • Canoe & kayak launch

  • Native plant garden (at Johns Creek Environmental Campus)

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • The intersection of Holcomb Bridge and Spalding (0.6 miles southeast of the park) has gas stations, restaurants, and a grocery store

  • The intersection of Holcomb Bridge and Barnwell (0.8 miles northwest of the park) has restaurants and a grocery store

Links:

  • City of Roswell

  • Friends of the Roswell Parks

  • Johns Creek Environmental Campus

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

Osprey, October 18, 2018

Osprey, October 18, 2018

Eastern Meadowlark, October 18, 2018

Eastern Meadowlark, October 18, 2018

Palm Warbler, October 18, 2018

Palm Warbler, October 18, 2018

Usnea lichen, October 18, 2018

Usnea lichen, October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

October 18, 2018

Remnant of original Holcomb Bridge, October 18, 2018

Remnant of original Holcomb Bridge, October 18, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near Garrard Landing Park on iNaturalist.org »

Good to combine with

Featured
Simpsonwood Park
Simpsonwood Park
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Jones Bridge
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Jones Bridge
Big Creek Park
Big Creek Park
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Island Ford
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Island Ford
October 20, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, free admission, north metro, boat ramp, allows dogs, garden, near: jones bridge, near: island ford, near: big creek park, near: simpsonwood park
parks
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Sykes Park

Sykes Park
July 04, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

In June 2018, two mountain bike trails opened at Sykes Park. The beginner trail was formerly a nature trail, and the intermediate trail is brand new. Hiking is allowed on both trails, but remember to hike in the opposite direction of the posted signs, since the signs are intended for bikers. The trails at Sykes Park are part of a planned network of more trails (including Southside Park) called "Ride & Fly" due to the trails' proximity to the Atlanta Airport.

Address: Earl Godfrey Cir, East Point, GA 30344
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of East Point
Acres: 44
Approximate miles of trails: 1 now, 4 total planned
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 8
Parking: The park has dedicated, free parking
Trailhead(s): The trail is accessible from a few points along Earl Godfrey Cir. Trailheads are marked with signs that say which direction to bike on which day (hikers should head the opposite direction)
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: Each trail intersection is marked. Easy mountain biking trails are marked with a green circle, more difficult trails are marked with a blue square.
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Picnic pavilion

  • Exercise equipment

  • Restrooms

  • Basketball and tennis courts

  • Mountain biking

Links:

  • East Point

  • MTB Atlanta

July 4, 2018

July 4, 2018

Photo by Marc Turnley, July 4, 2018

Photo by Marc Turnley, July 4, 2018

Photo by Marc Turnley, July 4, 2018

Photo by Marc Turnley, July 4, 2018

Photo by Marc Turnley, July 4, 2018

Photo by Marc Turnley, July 4, 2018

Good to combine with:

  • Southside Park

  • Connally Nature Park

  • Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

  • Perkerson Park

July 04, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, near: connally nature park, near bus-5 min, free admission, near downtown-10 miles, mountain biking, itp page 2
parks
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Atlanta Memorial Park

Atlanta Memorial Park
June 28, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address: 384 Woodward Way NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of Atlanta
Acres: Approximately 200
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Hours: 6:00am to 11:00pm
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 5
MARTA directions: From Midtown Station, take the #12 bus to Howell Mill Rd@Peachtree Battle. Walk South on Howell Mill across the creek. The trailhead will be on your left, before any intersection.
Cycling directions: From the Northside Beltline Trail at Tanyard Creek Park, follow the trail north. Follow a sign to turn left towards the tennis center. From the tennis center, take the connector trail north along Northside Drive. As of June 2018, the trail ends right at Atlanta Memorial Park. Note: as of June 2018, the trail is not quite complete. There are a couple sections where you need to go through some gravel and rocks and might need to walk your bike.
Parking: Free street parking is available adjacent to the park
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: None
Dogs allowed: Yes
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 19 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition) 

Amenities:

  • Playground

  • Water fountain

Links:

  • Atlanta Memorial Park Conservancy

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From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near Atlanta Memorial Park on iNaturalist.org »

Good to combine with:

  • Tanyard Creek Park

  • Standing Peachtree Park

June 28, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, near bus-5 min, free admission, near downtown-5 miles, allows dogs, itp page 2
parks
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Big Haynes Creek Nature Center

Big Haynes Creek Nature Trail
May 28, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Not to be confused with Big Haynes Creek Recreation Area, Big Haynes Creek Nature Center is part of the Georgia International Horse Park, home to the equestrian events at the 1996 Olympics. These 173 acres were designated as a nature preserve and opened in 2007. The nature center features hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails, as well as a boat launch for canoes and kayaks. Some trails have bikes and horses separated, others are combined. Some of the trails are very wide and flat, while some are very narrow and moderately steep. Note: some of the biking and hiking trails are along granite outcrops and may be very slippery when wet.

Address: 855 Costley Mill Rd NE, Conyers, GA 30013
Cost of admission: None
Governance: Georgia International Horse Park
Acres: 173
Approximate miles of trails: Around 5 miles of trails in the nature center; around 20 miles total trails in the horse park
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 27
Parking and trailhead: Signs direct you to the nature center parking lot, which is across Costley Mill Rd from Gate D of the Georgia International Horse Park
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: Trails are blazed with paint on trees
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fishing allowed: No
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Four tent pads, grills, and a fire pit are available for approved groups

  • Boat ramp for canoes and kayaks

  • Interpretive signage

  • Equestrian and mountain bike trails (hiking appears to be permitted on both)

  • Wetlands overlook with viewfinder and bench

Links:

  • Georgia International Horse Park

  • Map (note: some trails have changed)

  • Paddling.com trip overview

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IMG_8235.jpg
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For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web
 

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

  • Arabia Mountain

  • Panola Mountain

May 28, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, free admission, east metro, mountain biking, boat ramp, 5+ miles of trails, nature center, wetlands, allows dogs, near: arabia mountain, near: panola mountain
parks
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Proctor Creek Greenway

Proctor Creek Greenway
May 07, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address (approximate): 1259 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of Atlanta
Approximate miles of trails: 2
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 3
MARTA directions: Take the train to Bankhead station. The trail begins immediately west of the station.
Trailhead(s): There are trailheads at Hollowell, Johnson, and Kerry Circle. The trail is paved, so the trailheads are easy to find.
Trail surface: Paved

The segment from Hollowell to Johnson was built as part of the Renew Atlanta bond of 2015. The trail segment was opened on May 7, 2018. The segment from Johnson to Kerry Cir (the "River Park Trail") is a PATH trail that was built many years earlier. The new segment makes the trail easily accessible by MARTA. The trail begins immediately west of the Bankhead MARTA station (east of the creek).

The greenway will eventually extend all the way to the Chattahoochee River, for seven miles total.

Links:

  • Emerald Corridor Foundation

  • Renew Atlanta Bond

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

April 1, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.

Good to combine with:

  • Spink-Collins Park

  • Westside Park

May 07, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, near bus-5 min, near marta station, free admission, multi-use path, near downtown-5 miles, allows dogs, itp page 2, near: westside park
parks
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W.D. Thomson Park

W.D. Thomson Park
April 22, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address (approximate): 1029 Mason Woods Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Cost of admission: None
Governance: DeKalb County
Acres: 29
Approximate miles of trails: 2
Hours: 7:00am to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 6
MARTA directions: From Decatur MARTA station, take the 19 bus to Clairmont Rd@Mason Mill Rd. Walk west on Mason Mill Rd. Turn right on Mason Woods Dr. The park entrance is on the right.
Parking: There is parking available in the park
Trailhead(s): There are two trailheads in the parking lot, clearly marked by blazed posts
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: Multiple colored blazed posts for the various trail segments
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 18 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition)

Amenities:

  • Tennis courts

  • Single basketball goal

  • Mutli-use field

  • Playground

  • Pavillion

  • Water fountain

  • Bike rack

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

There is a gas station and a cafe at the corner of Mason Mill & Clairmont, about a 15 minute walk east of the park, and near the #19 bus stop.

Links:

  • DeKalb County Parks

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

April 4, 2018

From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near W.D. Thomson Park on iNaturalist.org »

Good to combine with:

  • Mason Mill Park

  • Kittredge Park

  • Hahn Woods

April 22, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, free admission, near downtown-10 miles, near: kittredge park, itp page 2, near: mason mill
parks
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Southside Park

Southside Sports Complex
April 16, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Thanks to a partnership of IMBA, REI, and the City of Atlanta, mountain bike trails are being built in this under-utilized park. Southside Park is currently Atlanta's largest park (until the westside reservoir park opens) at 211 acres. There will eventually be three trail loops: beginner, intermediate, and expert, but currently only the beginner trail is open (as of April 2018). It is known as the Evergreen Trail. It is about 1.25 miles long. All the trails combined will be about 7 miles long.

The trails are all open to hikers and runners. The trailhead signage shows which direction mountain bikers should travel based on the day of the week, and all other trail users should proceed in the opposite direction.

Check out MTB Atlanta's website for more info and a map of the planned trails.

Address: 3460 Jonesboro Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30354
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of Atlanta
Acres: 211
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Hours: 6:00am to 11:00pm
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 7
Parking: Parking is available at the trailhead
Trailhead(s): The trailhead is clearly marked at the north end of the parking lot
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: None
Geocaching: None

Amenities:

  • Bike racks at trailhead

  • Ball fields

  • Mountain bike trail

Links:

  • MTB Atlanta

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

Summer Tanager, April 14, 2018

Summer Tanager, April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

White-Breasted Nuthatch, April 14, 2018

White-Breasted Nuthatch, April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

REI Hiking Project

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist.org
View more observations near Southside Park on iNaturalist.org »

Good to combine with:

  • Southtowne Trail

  • South Bend Park

  • Constitution Lakes

  • Sykes Park

April 16, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 4, free admission, near downtown-10 miles, mountain biking, itp page 2, near: intrenchment creek, near: reynolds nature preserve
parks
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