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

Blue Heron Nature Preserve

Blue Heron Nature Preserve
May 31, 2021 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Blue Heron Nature Preserve is along Nancy Creek in North Buckhead.

The Blueway Trail of Eidson Mill, Emma Lane Wetlands, and Land O’ Lakes was completed in 2020, and now all the trails at the preserve are combined (other than some brief sidewalk connections)

Address: 4055 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30342
Admission: Free
Governance: City of Atlanta, Blue Heron Nature Preserve
Acres: 30
Approximate miles of trails: 3
Hours: 6am to 11pm
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 8
MARTA directions: The number 5 bus runs between Dunwoody and Lindbergh stations and stops right outside Blue Heron (Lakemoore Drive or 4090 Roswell Road stop)
Parking: There is parking available at 4055 Roswell Rd (the office/school) and just north of there at the community garden. There is also street parking available in the neighborhood.
Trailhead(s): There are many trailheads. There is a trailhead from the parking area off Roswell Rd. as well as other trailheads on Roswell Road, Lakemoore Drive, Rickenbacker Drive, Emma Lane, and Land O Lakes Drive.
Trail surface: Natural
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 1 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition)

Features:

  • Community garden

  • USGS creek monitoring station

  • Picnic areas

  • Apiaries

  • Photo blind

  • Bike racks (at the office)

November 16, 2016

November 16, 2016

Great Blue Skimmer, May 31, 2021

Great Blue Skimmer, May 31, 2021

Eidson Mill Trail, November 16, 2016

Eidson Mill Trail, November 16, 2016

Carolina Wren, January 13, 2017

Carolina Wren, January 13, 2017

Beaver Tail Trail, November 16, 2016

Beaver Tail Trail, November 16, 2016

November 16, 2016

November 16, 2016

November 16, 2016

November 16, 2016

November 16, 2016

November 16, 2016

Eastern Chipmunk

Eastern Chipmunk

More photos on Flickr

Blue Heron - All

From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist
View more observations near Blue Heron Nature Preserve GEOFENCE on iNaturalist »

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

Featured
Mountain Way Common
Mountain Way Common

Featured
Park Pride Community Garden Tour, May 20, 2017
May 21, 2017
Park Pride Community Garden Tour, May 20, 2017
May 21, 2017
May 21, 2017

Updated August 2, 2016, November 16, 2016, January 13, 2017, March 11, 2018, & May 31, 2021

May 31, 2021 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 1, free admission, itp, near downtown-10 miles, near bus-5 min page 2, near: mountain way common
parks
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west-palisades.png

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: West Palisades

West Palisades
May 22, 2021 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Also known as: Paces Mill Unit
Address: 3444 Cobb Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339
Cost of admission: Free, $5/day parking fee per car
Governance: NPS
Friends of the Park Group: Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy
Acres: 302
Approximate miles of trails: 6
Hours: Dawn to dusk, exact park hours are posted at the trailheads
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 10
Transit directions: Take the 12 MARTA bus from Midtown Station to the Cobb Pkwy & River Pkwy stop. The park entrance is only about 0.2 miles south of the stop. For access to & from the southbound bus, you can cross under Cobb Parkway from the park parking lot instead of needing to cross the highway at grade.
Cycling directions: A multi-use path (partly outlined here) connects West Palisades to Cochran Shoals. It’s about 3 miles between the two units by bike.
Trailhead(s): There is a second trailhead at 932 Akers Ridge Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
Parking: Paid parking is available at both trailheads
Trail surface: Part paved, part natural
Blazes/markings: Each intersection is marked with a map
Restrooms: There are restrooms at the Cobb Parkway parking lot and near the Akers Ridge parking lot
Dogs allowed: Yes, on leash
Fishing allowed: Yes
Best time to visit: If you arrive in the first weekend in November, like I happened to in 2016, especially if the weather is unseasonably warm, you might find dozens of fly fishers in the river. This is because of the "Delayed Harvest" rule, where fish must be released along this section of the Chattahoochee between November 1 and May 14 of each year. This is a time when the river is stocked with trout from hatcheries, so it's considered to be a good time and place for beginners to fish.

Guidebook mentions: Chapter 9 in 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles (3rd edition), page 104 in Hiking the Hooch (1st edition), trip 78 in Afoot & Afield Atlanta (2nd edition), chapter 61 in Hiking Georgia (4th edition)

Features:

  • Restrooms

  • Boat ramp

Links:
Map (PDF)

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 4, 2017

November 4, 2017

November 4, 2017

November 4, 2017

Blue-tipped Dancer, May 22, 2021

Blue-tipped Dancer, May 22, 2021

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

November 6, 2016

IMG_3062.jpg

More photos on Flickr

West Palisades - all

From around the web

Recent iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist
View more observations near West Palisades Unit, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area on iNaturalist »

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

Featured
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Cochran Shoals (Columns Drive & Interstate North)
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Cochran Shoals (Columns Drive & Interstate North)
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: East Palisades (Whitewater Creek & Indian Trail)
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: East Palisades (Whitewater Creek & Indian Trail)
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Powers Island
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Powers Island
Bob Callan/Rottenwood Creek Trail
Bob Callan/Rottenwood Creek Trail

Updated November 6, 2016, November 4, 2017 & May 22, 2021

May 22, 2021 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 1, near bus-10 min, near downtown-10 miles, itp page 2, boat ramp, near: cochran shoals
parks
Comment
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
peachtree-creek-greenway.png

Peachtree Creek Greenway

December 12, 2019 by Shawn Taylor in parks

On December 12, 2019, the first mile of the planned 12-mile Peachtree Creek Greenway opened. Currently extending along the North Fork of Peachtree Creek from N Druid Hills Rd to Briarwood Rd, the greenway will one day connect to the Beltline and PATH 400 to the south and extend to Doraville MARTA station to the north.

Address: 2036 N Druid Hills Road
Cost of admission: None
Governance: Current trail is in the City of Brookhaven, future segments will be in other cities
Approximate miles of trails: 1.2
Hours: The trail is lit and is open 6:00am to 11:00pm
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 6
Transit directions: MARTA busses #8, #39, and #47 all stop near the greenway. Of those, the #39 runs the most frequently. From Doraville or Lindbergh station, take the #39 to Buford Hwy & N Druid Hills. From there, walk southeast on N Druid Hills for about a block. The greenway is clearly marked on the left.
Parking: There are three parking lots for the greenway: One on the north side of N Druid Hills just east of the creek, one on the south side of Corporate Blvd just east of the creek, and one on the south side of Briarwood Rd just west of the creek.
Trailhead(s): As well as the parking lot trailheads mentioned above, there is also a trailhead at Corporate Square (note: this trailhead is not handicap accessible) and a couple private, locked trailheads for nearby residence.
Trail surface: Paved
Blazes/markings: The trail is well marked with mile markers and directions to points of interest
Dogs allowed: Yes, on leash
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Bike repair stations

  • Benches

  • Trash & recycling cans

  • Lighting

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • The trail is in a fairly urban area, and there are many gas stations, restaurants, and bus stops nearby

Links:

  • Peachtree Creek Greenway

Current Trail

Current + Planned Trails

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

December 7, 2019

North Fork Peachtree Creek, December 7, 2019

North Fork Peachtree Creek, December 7, 2019


Good to combine with

Featured
Kittredge Park
Kittredge Park
Confluence Trail
Confluence Trail
December 12, 2019 /Shawn Taylor
near: kittredge park, near: confluence trail, near bus-5 min page 2, multi-use path, itp page 2, near downtown-10 miles, allows dogs
parks
1 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 »

Good to combine with:

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

Lullwater Preserve and Hahn Woods

Lullwater Preserve
October 14, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks
Note: As of August 2022, the trail between Lullwater Preserve and Hahn Woods is closed for sewer line repairs. The suspension bridge is also closed.

According to a sign in Lullwater Preserve, "The place called Lullwater passed through four stages in its history: Piedmont forest; hunting grounds for the Cherokee and Creek nations; site of farms, mills, and residences for European American settlers; and finally as a resource for Emory University, which has used it alternately to house the president, to sell for profit, to build on, and to preserve for recreation and education."

Today, the park has a neat pedestrian suspension bridge over the south fork of Peachtree Creek. 

Signs at some of the trailheads state that the trail is for use by Emory staff, faculty, and students. I have never heard of this being enforced, with many groups and individuals visiting regularly.

The PATH trail in Medlock, Melton, and Mason Mill parks is planned to connect to Lullwater Preserve, and construction began in 2017. As of October 2018, there is a fence blocking where I would expect the trail to connect, so I am unsure what is planned.

Also known as: Lullwater Park; Emory President’s Estate
Address: 1463 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322
Cost of admission: None
Governance: Emory University
Acres: 154
Approximate miles of trails: 4
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 6
MARTA directions: Take the #6 MARTA bus from Lindbergh or Inman Park to the Clifton Rd NE @ Haygood Dr NE stop. From there, walk north along Clifton Road for a little over a block. The entrance to the preserve is on the right.
Parking: Parking is available at the Hahn Woods trailhead at 866 Houston Mill Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329. From what I understand, parking at the Clifton School at 1900 Starvine Way is free on the weekends.
Trail surface: Some paved, some natural, some gravel
Dogs allowed: Yes
Fishing allowed: Yes, catch and release only
Best time to visit: Early-November fall foliage is excellent
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 5 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition)

May 2, 2015

May 2, 2015

May 2, 2015

May 2, 2015

November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

Hahn Woods beech, November 3, 2016

Hahn Woods beech, November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

November 3, 2016

Great Blue Heron, January 12, 2017

Great Blue Heron, January 12, 2017

December 9, 2017

December 9, 2017

For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

Featured
Mason Mill/Melton/Medlock Parks
Mason Mill/Melton/Medlock Parks
WildWoods & Fernbank Forest
WildWoods & Fernbank Forest
Lullwater Conservation Garden
Lullwater Conservation Garden

Updated November 4, 2016, January 12, 2017, April 9, 2017, and October 14, 2018

October 14, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 1, near: fernbank forest, near bus-10 min, multi-use path, free admission, near downtown-10 miles, birding, 3+ miles of trails, near: mason mill, near: lullwater conservation garden, itp page 2
parks
1 Comment
kittredge-park.png

Kittredge Park

Kittredge Park
October 03, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

The primary trail sections near the main trailhead are bordered with logs and filled with mulch and pine straw. There are numerous benches along the trail, and there is also a picnic area. The park has ball fields, a pool, a community garden, and a playground. The community garden and playground are at the Holly Lane entrance to the park.

Also known as: Elwyn John Wildlife Sanctuary
Address (approximate): 1500 Kittredge Park Rd NE, Atlanta GA 30329
Cost of admission: None
Acres: 29
Approximate miles of trails: 1.5
Hours: 7:00am to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 8
MARTA directions: Take the 30 bus from Lindbergh Station to Briarcliff Rd NE @ Woodlake Dr NE. Walk southeast on N Druid Hills. Turn right on Kittredge Park Rd and walk to the end.
Parking: Free parking is available at the end of Kittredge Park Rd. Street parking is also available off of Holly Ln near the playground.
Trail surface: Natural/mulch
Blazes/markings: There are some signs to mark the loop trail
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 10 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition)

Amenities:

  • Playground

  • Ballfields and pool

  • Trash cans

  • Picnic tables

Nearby amenities/conveniences:
There are several restaurants, a Target, a drug store, and two gas stations at or near the intersection of N Druid Hills and Briarcliff, about a 10-minute walk from the Kittredge Park Dr. trailhead.

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

Nantahalla Crossing, Eagle Scout service project of Levi Siegelman, October 2012, photo from November 5, 2016

Nantahalla Crossing, Eagle Scout service project of Levi Siegelman, October 2012, photo from November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

November 5, 2016

May 2, 2018

May 2, 2018

June 6, 2018

June 6, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.

Good to combine with:

Featured
Peachtree Creek Greenway
Peachtree Creek Greenway
Mason Mill/Melton/Medlock Parks
Mason Mill/Melton/Medlock Parks
W.D. Thomson Park
W.D. Thomson Park

Updated August 2, 2016, November 5, 2016 & October 3, 2018

October 03, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 1, near bus-10 min, free admission, itp, near downtown-10 miles, near: mason mill, near: thomson park, near: peachtree creek greenway
parks
Comment

Connally Nature Park

Connally Nature Park
September 29, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Check out the rare pink lady's slipper orchids in late April or early May.

Connally Nature Park is also home to Atlanta’s champion white oak. As well as the champion, several other large, old white oaks are present along the trail.

The land was deeded by the Connally family to the City of East Point in 1991. East Point planned to use the land for a softball field or an elementary school but Trees Atlanta fought to preserve the land and the oaks and eventually won.

Address: Mulberry Ct, East Point, GA 30344
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of East Point
Acres: 27
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Hours: 7:00am to 10:00pm
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 7
MARTA directions: From West End station, take the #81 bus to Delowe Dr@Elinwood Dr. Walk east on Elinwood Drive for one block. Head left on Mulberry St. The park will be on your right.
Cycling directions: From East Point station, exit to the west (towards Main St.) Turn right on Main St. After 0.3 mile, turn left on Ware Ave. After 0.6 miles, turn left on Headland Dr. After 0.6 miles, turn right on Delowe. After 0.4 miles, turn right on Connally. Take the first right on Mulberry St. and then the first left into the park. There is no bike rack available. Total cycling distance is 2.2 miles. Note: Main St. is one way, so you will need to return via East Point St.
Parking:
 Parking is available at the trailhead.
Trailheads: Both trailheads connect to the grassy area near the parking area.
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: None
Dogs allowed: Yes
Best time to visit: Late April or early May
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Parking

  • Dog poop bags and trash can

Nearby amenities/conveniences:

  • Gas station, grocery stores, and restaurants at the intersection of Headland & Delowe

April 18, 2015

April 18, 2015

August 24, 2014

August 24, 2014

April 18, 2015

April 18, 2015

August 24, 2014

August 24, 2014

April 18, 2015

April 18, 2015

April 18, 2015

April 18, 2015

September 29, 2018

September 29, 2018

For more photos, see my flickr album.

Good to combine with:

Featured
Hampton-Beecher Nature Preserve
Hampton-Beecher Nature Preserve
Sykes Park
Sykes Park
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

Updated August 3, 2016 & September 29, 2018

September 29, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 1, near: hampton-beecher, near: cascade springs, near: sykes park, near bus-5 min, free admission, itp, near downtown-10 miles
parks
3 Comments
sykes park.png

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
Comment

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

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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
Comment
boat-rock.png

Boat Rock Preserve

boat rock bouldering area
April 21, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Boat Rock Preserve is an area that has been preserved by the Southeast Climbers Coalition. The surrounding area was being developed, and the climbers rushed to preserve some of the area for bouldering.

The boulders here remain – similar to Stone Mountain and Arabia Mountain – after the surrounding different kinds of stones  have eroded away.

Address: 1221 Boat Rock Road Southwest, Atlanta, GA 30331
Cost of admission: None
Acres: 13
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Hours: 6am to 9pm
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 10
MARTA directions: The 73 bus is the closest. Check the website for info because the 73 has varying routes.
Parking: There is a small parking lot at 1221 Boat Rock Rd. [Update 2018] the parking lot is now gated. Check out the Southeastern Climbers Coalition website to get information about how to park in the lot. The parking lot is kind of tricky to notice. It's on the south side of Boat Rock Road, between Cascade Hills Dr SW and Binford Pl SW.
Trailhead(s): The main trailhead is at 1221 Boat Rock Rd. There are a few other trailheads available on neighborhood streets.
Trail surface: Mostly natural, some asphalt from a former road
Blazes/markings: There is some directional signage, but no blazes
Guidebook mentions: None

Amenities:

  • Toilet (no running water)

Links:

  • The Southeastern Climbers Coalition

  • Sandtown

  • Climbing Routes on Mountain Project

  • Dr Topo Boat Rock Bouldering Guide (PDF)

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April 21, 2018

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For more photos, see my flickr album.

Good to combine with:

  • Sweetwater Creek State Park

  • Herbert Greene


Featured
Exploring Boat Rock with EcoAddendum, October 15, 2016
Nov 13, 2016
Exploring Boat Rock with EcoAddendum, October 15, 2016
Nov 13, 2016

I attended the EcoAddendum walk at Boat Rock Preserve, led by Kathryn Kolb.

Read More →
Nov 13, 2016

Updated October 18, 2016 & April 21, 2018

April 21, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 2, free admission, west metro, near downtown-10 miles, climbing
parks
Comment
southside-park.png

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

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White-Breasted Nuthatch, April 14, 2018

White-Breasted Nuthatch, April 14, 2018

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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
1 Comment

Constitution Lakes

Constitution Lakes
April 14, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Formerly the site of South River Brick Works, many bricks can still be found here. This park is also home to the Doll's Head Trail – brainchild of Joel Slaton – a creepy art project communally created using objects found in the park.

Address: Intersection of Moreland Ave and S River Industrial Blvd SE
Cost of admission: None
Governance: DeKalb County
Acres: 267
Approximate miles of trails: 3
Hours: 7:00am to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 6
MARTA directions: From Five Points Station, take the #49 bus to Bailey St SE @ Fayetteville Rd SE. From there, walk Southwest on Fayetteville Rd. Continue south on Moreland. Turn left onto S River Industrial Blvd SE. The sign for the park is immediately ahead. It's about a nine minute walk from the bus stop to the park entrance.
Parking: There is parking at the trailhead
Trail surface: Paved and boardwalk from the parking lot to the lake. Other sections are natural surface or boardwalk
Geocaching: Yes
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 2 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition)

Links:

  • Friends of Constitution Lakes

  • "Doll's Head Trail at Constitution Lakes" History Atlanta, July 9, 2014

  • "Doll's Head Trail", Atlas Obscura

  • eBird hotspot

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Great Blue Heron, April 16, 2017

Great Blue Heron, April 16, 2017

April 16, 2017

April 16, 2017

November 22, 2016

November 22, 2016

For more photos, see my flickr album.

Good to combine with:

  • Southside Park

  • Old Atlanta Prison Farm (post forthcoming)

  • South River Trail (post forthcoming; PATH Foundation link)


Updated August 2, 2016, November 22, 2016, April 1 & 16, 2017, and April 14, 2018

April 14, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 1, free admission, itp, near downtown-10 miles, birding, wetland, 3+ miles of trails, near: intrenchment creek, near: reynolds nature preserve
parks
Comment
east-palisades.png

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: East Palisades (Whitewater Creek & Indian Trail)

April 10, 2018 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address: 4050 Whitewater Creek Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30327 (approximate) OR 1425 Indian Trail NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30327
Cost of admission: Free, $5 parking per car
Governance: NPS
Acres: 393
Approximate miles of trails: 5
Hours: Dawn to dusk, exact park hours are posted at the trailheads
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 10
MARTA directions: Not really MARTA accessible
Parking: Parking available at both trailheads
Trail surface: Natural
Blazes/markings: Some trails are blazed with blue. Each trail intersection has signage.
Geocaching: No
Guidebook mentions: Chapter 8 in Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests (1st edition), chapter 8 in 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles (3rd edition), page 110 in Hiking the Hooch (1st edition), trip 77 in Afoot & Afield Atlanta (2nd edition), chapter 62 in Hiking Georgia (4th edition)

Links:

  • Trail map

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For more photos, see my flickr album.


From around the web

REI Hiking Project

Random eBird sightings from the last 30 days


Good to combine with:

  • West Palisades

  • Bob Callan/Rottonwood Creek Trail


Updated November 1, 2016, May 10, 2017 & April 10, 2018

April 10, 2018 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 1, near downtown-10 miles, 5+ miles of trails, itp page 2, near: west palisades
parks
Comment
herbert-greene.png

Herbert Greene Park

Herbert Greene
November 11, 2017 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address: 4300 Dollar Mill Way SW, Atlanta, GA 30331
Cost of admission: Free
Governance: City of Atlanta
Acres: 56
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Hours: 6:00am to 11:00pm
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 9
MARTA directions: Take the train to H.E. Holmes station, then take the 865 bus to Utoy Cir SW@Dollar Mill Way SW. Walk west on Dollar Mill Way SW to the end of the street. Continue straight ahead into the woods (the trailhead is not clearly marked).
Parking: On-street parking is available
Trail surface: Natural

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

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Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

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Beech tree, November 11, 2017

Beech tree, November 11, 2017

November 11, 2017

November 11, 2017

Beech tree, November 11, 2017

Beech tree, November 11, 2017

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

November 11, 2017

November 11, 2017

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

Utoy Creek, November 11, 2017

Good to Combine with:

  • Boat Rock Preserve

November 11, 2017 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 3, near bus-5 min, free admission, west metro, near downtown-10 miles
parks
Comment

Confluence Trail

Confluence Trail
June 28, 2017 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address: End of Armand Rd NE, Atlanta GA 30324
Cost of admission: None
Governance: South Fork Conservancy
Acres: Unknown
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Hours: Unknown
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 6
MARTA directions: Take the 6, 27, 30, or 33 east from Lindbergh Station to the Lindridge Dr NE stop. From there, walk south on Armand Rd to the end of the road.
Parking: There's neighborhood street parking available along Armand Rd.
Trailhead(s): Note: the trailhead is near a private property sign. You're allowed to hike on the trail, but please park in the cul-de-sac or elsewhere outside the Cedar Chase community.
Trail surface: Natural

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Links:
South Fork Conservancy

Good to combine with:

  • Meadow Loop

  • Cheshire Farm Trail

  • Morningside Nature Preserve

June 28, 2017 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 3, near bus-10 min, free admission, near downtown-10 miles, itp page 2, near: peachtree creek greenway
parks
Comment

Atlanta History Center

Atlanta History Center
May 21, 2017 by Shawn Taylor in parks

As well as the indoor exhibits and research center, Atlanta History Center also features nature trails, gardens, and a demonstration farm.

The trails are scattered throughout the property. Here's a map to guide you to find them.

Address: 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Cost of admission: $16.50 per adult (at time of writing)
Governance: Atlanta History Center
Acres: 33
Approximate miles of trails: 1
Hours: 10:00am-5:30pm Monday-Saturday; noon-5:30pm Sunday
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 6
MARTA directions: Take the 110 bus North from Arts Center station or south from Buckhead or Lenox station to the Peachtree Rd @ E Paces Ferry Rd NE stop. From there, walk west on West Paces Ferry. The history center will be on your left after 0.4 miles.
Parking: The history center has a parking deck
Trail surface: Mostly dirt

Links:
Atlanta History Center [Web] [Facebook]

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Good to combine with:

  • Sidney Marcus Trail

  • Blue Heron Nature Preserve

  • PATH 400 (post forthcoming)


Featured
Park Pride Community Garden Tour, May 20, 2017
May 21, 2017
Park Pride Community Garden Tour, May 20, 2017
May 21, 2017
May 21, 2017

May 21, 2017 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 3, near bus-10 min, near downtown-10 miles, itp page 2
parks
Comment

Glenn Creek Nature Preserve

Glenn Creek Nature Preserve
April 29, 2017 by Shawn Taylor in parks

In 2004, the Glenn Creek Nature Preserve Alliance raised over $65,000 to facilitate the purchase of this property from the owner, who wanted it to become a nature preserve. $90,000 was added from the Georgia Community Greenspace Funds, and the property was purchased by the City of Decatur in December 2004. The Georgia Land Trust assisted. According to the deed, the land is to be used as a nature preserve in perpetuity.

Address: Fairview St, Decatur, GA 30030
Cost of admission: None
Governance: City of Decatur
Acres: 2
Approximate miles of trails: Less than 1
Hours: The park is open dawn to dusk, but the parking lots have more specific hours
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 8
MARTA directions: Walk from Avondale Station (total distance: 0.6 miles), following the below cycling directions.
Bike directions: From Avondale station/PATH trail, go north on Sycamore. Make a slight left on Ridgeland and then a left on Fairview. The park is at the end of Fairview. From downtown Decatur, go east on Sycamore and then continue north on Sycamore. Then follow the directions above.
Parking: On-street parking should be available
Trailhead(s): There is a single public trailhead at the west end of Fairview St.
Trail surface: Natural

Amenities:

  • Bike rack

  • Trash can

  • Interpretive signage

  • Viewing platform

  • Benches

Links:
Glenn Creek Nature Preserve [Web] [Facebook]
Map

April 29, 2017
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Wood Thrush, April 29, 2017
Wood Thrush, April 29, 2017
March 8, 2013
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April 29, 2017 April 29, 2017 Wood Thrush, April 29, 2017 March 8, 2013 March 8, 2013

Good to combine with:

  • Decatur Cemetery

  • Glenlake Park (post forthcoming)

April 29, 2017 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 3, near bus-10 min, free admission, near downtown-10 miles, itp page 2, near: umch
parks
Comment

Frazier-Rowe Park

Frazier-Rowe Park
December 20, 2016 by Shawn Taylor in parks

Address: 2886 Lavista Rd, Decatur, GA 30033
Admission: None
Acres: 6
Approximate miles of trails: <1
Hours: 7:00am to sunset
Miles from downtown Atlanta: 9
Trail surface: Some paved, mostly natural

Features:

  • Playground

  • Water fountain

  • Picnic tables

  • Native plant nursery

  • Interpretive signage

  • Paved exercise loop trail

  • Exercise equipment

  • Bike rack

  • Outdoor classroom

Links:
Frazier-Rowe Park
Friends of Frazier-Rowe Park

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Good to combine with:

  • Mason Mill

  • Briarlake Forest Park

December 20, 2016 /Shawn Taylor
atlanta page 3, near bus-5 min, free admission, near downtown-10 miles, itp page 2
parks
Comment
  • Newer
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