Covered in rich flora and fauna that intrigues the senses, Georgia is home to a vast, natural landscape that spans the state from top to bottom. From the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia’s northern corner to beautiful, historic walking trails in Savannah, nature is a large part of Georgia’s culture. Think of busy streets and skyscrapers when Atlanta’s on your mind? Think again! There are lots of trails and parks with an Atlanta address, too.
Check out this list of Georgia parks and trails compiled by the KNOWAtlanta team that will have you excited to put on your hiking shoes:
Explore ITP
In the ITP region, they are also known as “inside the perimeter” or Intown Atlanta, a diverse collection of urban green spaces that awaits you.
Looking for a leisurely walk through the heart of the city? The Atlanta BeltLine is a convenient location to get started. Explore native trees, wildflowers and green spaces as you walk or catch a guided tour with Trees Atlanta for a deeper look at the Atlanta BeltLine collection of planting projects. Love local art? The Atlanta BeltLine is consistently decorated with creative displays of dance, music, mural painting and sculptures. Bikers are always welcome, so bust out that old bike in the garage and take it for a spin!
Celebrating its 35th anniversary, Piedmont Park is the place to lay down a picnic blanket and enjoy some time in the sun. Choose from a variety of park activities, including fishing classes, yoga and trails ideal for biking, running and walking to encourage you to try something new! An onsite bike repair workshop is a convenient stop if your day in the sun hits an unexpected bump in the road! Coming up soon, Piedmont Park will be hosting its annual Earth Day Bike-In Movie, sponsored by Science ATL, to raise awareness of alternative transportation.
Once the center of the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park is now a scenic locale for a day spent outside. Walk amongst monuments, historical landmarks and gardens that honor Atlanta’s international legacy. Looking for some local, live music? Southern Company Amphitheater is your hotspot for outdoor entertainment. Don’t forget to check out the magnificent water gardens for a refreshing break as you walk through the park’s Quilt Plazas.
OTP Getaway
Want somewhere a little shadier outside the perimeter? Take a hike through scenic Red Top Mountain State Park in Cartersville. Offering more than 15 miles of wooded trails, this is every hiker and mountain biker’s dream stop. Fishing enthusiasts can bring their gear and take advantage of the vast, 12,000-acre lake. To avoid fines, ensure you are up to date with your fishing license! Just over one hour from downtown Atlanta, visit Red Top Mountain and trade the city’s hustle and bustle for a weekend in nature. That’s right, the park has cabins, camping sites and yurts, so your green retreat can last the whole weekend.
Escape to the Mountains
Searching for an escape far from the city? Want to see Georgia’s rich landscape? Add Blue Ridge to your list! Nestled along a section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this little city is full of natural landscapes that will leave you breathless. Known for local wonders in the downtown area, there is so much scenery to absorb away from the city environment. Hike through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and admire the Long Creek and Fall Branch waterfalls along the way. There are many ways to explore the great outdoors here, with fishing, horseback riding, biking and boating opportunities.
Other cities in the Blue Ridge region of Georgia are home to some breathtaking green getaways! Feel the chill from waterfalls and cool springs at F.D. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain. Located just 80 miles southwest of Atlanta, surround yourself with the serenity and shaded comfort of hardwood and pine trees. Follow the 23-mile Pine Mountain Trail to experience rolling mountain terrain, refreshing natural creeks and beautiful waterfalls that make all stress float away. Don’t want to walk the whole way? Take a guided horseback ride and see the landscape from a perspective like no other.
Although a little further from the city, this next destination is perfect for waterfall and scenic hike enthusiasts. Amicalola Falls State Park in Dawsonville is a hub for hiking enthusiasts, families and anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Whether you visit to start your journey on the adjacent Appalachian Trail or for a weekend escape, there is something for everyone. Zipline through dense woods with the kids during the day and unwind inside the beautiful Amicalola Falls Lodge that overlooks scenic natural landscapes at night. Or, pitch a tent in the expansive campground and watch the stars dance without pesky urban light pollution.
South Georgia
Are you planning for an upcoming summer getaway? Savannah is a hub for all things beautiful. Walk underneath the shade of wispy Spanish moss and amongst a diverse grouping of plants local to the Georgia coast. Savannah is known for its walkability, offering expansive, pedestrian-friendly downtown areas. Outside the city, Old Fort Jackson is the perfect locale for a day outside. Explore historic architecture and landmarks that sit right on the water. You might even spot an alligator or two during your visit!
Plan your next adventure in Georgia’s great outdoors! A map of state parks and historical sites is available at https://GaStateParks.org/.
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