A Guide to Hiking in Atlanta
From a paved Beltline trail in the city to a wild trail following a whitewater creek just miles outside the perimeter, these are the best hikes in Atlanta.
Written by Cassandra Hamilton
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Take a leisurely stroll down a path lined with restaurants and shops on the Eastside Beltline or scramble over a rocky surface at Sweetwater Creek—Atlanta has a hiking trail for everyone.
When you think of great hiking trails in cities,
Atlanta
might not be the first place that comes to mind. While it’s known more for its contributions to rap and hip-hop and its role in the history of the Civil Rights Movement, modern-day Atlanta has some surprisingly fun and challenging trails to offer. Jerry
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, has done the leg work on the best hiking in Atlanta and has compiled a list of the best hiking near Atlanta and in the city. Are you ready?RECOMMENDED
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The best hikes in Atlanta
Visitors to Atlanta might be more focused on a historical walking tour or a visit to a film set, but locals know there’s plenty of great outdoor activities to enjoy. The Atlanta hiking trails covered here spread out over the city, so you’re sure to enjoy one of these hikes no matter where you’re staying.
Best for views: Bamboo Forest
Distance: 3.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trail type: Loop
Elevation gain: N/A
Parking: Yes
Dogs: Yes
Starting point: 4058 Whitewater Creek Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30327
Head up I-75 to this trail for some beautiful views looking out over the city. The views of downtown are unparalleled and make for some great photo ops.
The trail winds its way along a whitewater creek to sandy beaches where your furry friends can splash and play before heading into a dense bamboo forest. Standing amongst the bamboo will give you an otherworldly feeling and a sneaking suspicion that a fairy tale creature might pop out.
The trail is somewhat meandering, but it’s clearly marked to help you find the way. Pay attention to your trail map and the mile markers to find the points you want to see.
Pro Tip Bring your camera to capture the city views overlooking the rushing white water.
Best for dogs: Zonolite Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trail type: Out and back
Elevation gain: N/A
Parking: Street parking
Dogs: Yes
Starting point: Zonolite Place NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
This trail is located in Zonolite Park, a former brownfield that was contaminated with pollutants. The site was cleaned up in 2011, and extensive work went into removing invasive plant life, such as kudzu and privet. Now the park is a beautiful oasis for Atlanta residents.
The trail is pooch-friendly with a mix of natural and gravel ground cover. You’ll meet plenty of other dog owners along the trail, so be sure to bring a leash in case you encounter a not-so-friendly pup. Other than that, enjoy the easy hike with your furry friend!
Best for Instagram: Palisades West Trail
Distance: 4.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail type: Loop
Elevation gain: 672 feet
Parking: Yes
Dogs: Yes
Starting point: 932 Akers Ridge Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
Just across the Chattahoochee River from the Bamboo Forest is the Palisades West Trail, home to some ‘grammable spots and the local choice for favorite Atlanta hiking trail.
This trail has it all, from wide, sweeping views of the river to rocky scrambles and sandy beaches. The unpaved trail winds its way through a young, vine-covered hardwood forest to rocky bluff overlooks.
Pose for pictures just over a mile in on a wooden boardwalk spanning a small wetland. Check out some wildlife while you’re there (see if you can spot a heron) and continue on south before looping back through the marsh towards an elevation gain.
Pro Tip Check out this trail in the springtime when the dogwoods are in bloom to see a beautiful contrast between the white flowers and the lush greenery of the forest.
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversBest for families: Atlanta Beltline Northside Trail
Distance: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trail type: Out and back
Elevation gain: 52 feet
Parking: Street
Dogs: Yes
Starting point: Northside Beltline Trail, Atlanta, GA 30318
If you’re looking for an easy hike with the kiddos through a scenic park, check out the Atlanta Beltline Northside Trail. While it’s not as long as the Eastside Trail, the Northside Trail has plenty to offer hikers in Atlanta.
This trail passes under an old trestle bridge and a vibrant mural—great backdrops for a family photo. You can even bring your beloved fur child along on this hike—just be sure to keep your pooch on a leash!
Best for exercise: White Trail at Sweetwater Creek
Distance: 4.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail type: Loop
Elevation gain: N/A
Parking: Yes
Dogs: Yes
Starting point: 1750 Mount Vernon Road, Lithia Springs, GA 30122
You can’t talk about hiking near Atlanta without talking about a local favorite: Sweetwater Creek. A popular spot for summertime swimming, this state park also has a few hiking trails for visitors. You can choose between the Red, Yellow, or White Trail.
The White Trail combines with the Red Trail to make the park’s longest trail. You’ll experience a relaxing hike through a meadow past old Civil War ruins before scrambling over rocky bluffs. This trail has an excellent mix of challenge and ease to keep your body guessing and your heart rate up.
Pro Tip Bring a swimsuit and climb out over the rocks dotting the creek to cool off after your hike.
Best for a date: Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trail type: Out and back
Elevation gain: N/A
Parking: Street
Dogs: Yes
Starting point: Piedmont Park, Atlanta, GA 30306
If your idea of a perfect date is wandering and exploring with your partner, you won’t find the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail lacking. This two-mile stretch winds through the heart of the city past popular date spots like Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market.
You’ll have your pick of restaurants and shops to explore, plus a great photo op as you pass through Krog Street Tunnel. Enjoy people-watching on the trail and the revolving public art displays for an unforgettable date.
Tips for hiking in Atlanta
Hiking in Atlanta is a great way to enjoy the city and get some exercise. The Atlanta hiking trails offer a glimpse into the natural world and can be a relaxing way to forget the stress of city life. Before you hit the trails, though, make sure you’re prepared for a safe, successful, and respectful hike.
- Carry lots of water. Atlanta is hot, hot, hot for most of the year with temperatures above 90ºF and humidity above 80%. You’ll probably be sweating, even on the shaded trails, so make sure you stay hydrated.
- Liberally apply sunscreen. Not all of these hikes are through shaded forests and you’ll find yourself out in the open under the intense sun. Make sure to apply sunscreen with at least 30 SPF to keep yourself protected.
- Be respectful to nature and other hikers. These Atlanta hiking trails are all super popular, so make sure you follow basic trail etiquette and clean up after yourself (and your dog). Leave no trace!
- Start early if you can. If you don’t like hiking around other people, get an early start to beat the crowds.
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FAQs
Can you go hiking in Atlanta?
Yes! Atlanta has a lot of hiking trails for its residents and visitors. Some trails, like the Beltline, can be found in the city, while others, like Sweetwater Creek, are just a short drive from downtown.
What weird hiking trail can be found in Atlanta?
If you’re looking for a unique hike with a slight element of horror, check out Doll’s Head Trail in South Atlanta. Head to Constitution Lake Park in DeKalb County to find the trailhead—first, you’ll walk a 10-minute paved trail to a boardwalk and pond which lead to the trail’s entrance.
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