Hiking has come one of my favorite hobbies. Hiking can help me to stay fit, but also helps me to clear my mind. Most of us from Atlanta don’t really think about the amount of nature we have around us do to being a city that always has something going on, but sometimes the best part of it is outdoors. Being known as a city within a forest, the metro Atlanta area has a vast amount of green space that many can enjoy.
About 3 years ago (basically during the covid-19 pandemic) my wife and I set out to do some new things because we quickly knew that we couldn’t just stay inside forever. We understood that we shouldn’t be close to people, but what’s a better way to keep your distance than to engulf yourself with nature. That is exactly what we set out to do. At first we took 2 hour drives to north Georgia and hiked in some amazing places such as Tallulah Gorge, Toccoa Trails, Cloudland Canyon and soooo many more. Only to realize a few months later that we could get some of the same views and feels right here in Atlanta.
We was shocked with how quick you can go into an area within the city and feel as if you’re not even in the city anymore. From not hearing any cars, sirens and many times even people. When you feel alone, you can find yourself understanding exactly what you need to survive and that is peace. Hiking has given us time to meditate, talk to ourselves and each other and simply come grounded with the world around us.
Life is busy, but remember to take sometime for you. Here are 7 great places to hike that can help you clear your mind.
- Stone Mountain Trail is a multi-use trail located in the metro Atlanta area of Georgia, United States. The trail is approximately 19 miles long and runs from Atlanta’s east side to the city of Stone Mountain, ending at the base of Stone Mountain Park.
The trail is popular among walkers, runners, cyclists, and rollerbladers and is known for its scenic views of Stone Mountain and the surrounding landscape. The trail runs through several neighborhoods, parks, and green spaces, including Freedom Park, Candler Park, and the Atlanta BeltLine.
The Stone Mountain Trail features several access points and parking areas along its route, making it easy for visitors to start and end their journey at different points. The trail is also connected to other trails in the area, including the PATH Foundation Trail and the Arabia Mountain Trail.
At the end of the trail, visitors can explore Stone Mountain Park, which features a variety of activities, including hiking trails, a skyride to the top of the mountain, a scenic railroad, and a laser show. The park also features a variety of dining and shopping options.
The Stone Mountain Trail is open year-round and admission is free. However, parking fees may apply at certain trailheads, so it’s important to check before heading out. - East Palisades Trail is a hiking trail located in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. The trail is approximately 4 miles long and features scenic views of the Chattahoochee River, as well as several waterfalls and rapids.
The trail is known for its rugged terrain, which includes steep inclines, rocky paths, and several wooden bridges and stairs. The trail is popular among hikers and trail runners, as well as birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
One of the highlights of the trail is the bamboo forest, a unique section of the trail that features towering bamboo plants that provide shade and a peaceful atmosphere. The trail also features several overlooks that provide stunning views of the river and the surrounding forest.
At the end of the trail, hikers can access a suspension bridge that crosses over the Chattahoochee River and leads to the West Palisades Trail. There are also picnic areas and restroom facilities available for visitors.
The East Palisades Trail is open year-round and admission is free. However, parking fees may apply at certain trailheads, so it’s important to check before heading out. - Arabia Mountain Trail is a 30-mile long trail located in DeKalb County, Georgia, United States. The trail is known for its scenic views, unique rock formations, and diverse wildlife.
The trail is part of the larger Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, which covers over 40,000 acres of land and is home to a variety of natural and cultural resources. The Arabia Mountain Trail runs through a mix of forested areas, grasslands, and wetlands, and features several boardwalks and bridges to help hikers navigate the terrain.
One of the highlights of the trail is the Arabia Mountain, a granite outcrop that rises 954 feet above sea level and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is also home to several rare and endangered plant and animal species, including the black-spored quillwort and the red-cockaded woodpecker.
In addition to hiking, the Arabia Mountain Trail is also popular for biking, birdwatching, and photography. The trail is open year-round and admission is free. - Red Trail at Sweetwater Creek State Park is a popular hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the park’s unique landscape. Here are some key features of the trail:
Distance: The Red Trail is approximately 4.5 miles long.
Difficulty: The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty, with some steep climbs and rocky terrain.
Terrain: The trail follows the banks of Sweetwater Creek, with rocky outcroppings and beautiful views of the water. The trail also passes through dense forests and open fields.
Highlights: Along the trail, hikers can see the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill that was destroyed during the Civil War. The mill’s stone walls and towering smokestacks are a unique feature of the trail. Hikers can also see the park’s beautiful waterfall and historic covered bridge.
Tips: Hikers should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for steep climbs and rocky terrain. The trail can be slippery when wet, so hikers should use caution in wet conditions. The park charges a small fee for parking, and hikers should carry plenty of water and snacks for the hike. - Sope Creek Trail is a hiking trail located in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Marietta, Georgia, United States. The trail is approximately 3 miles long and features scenic views of the Sope Creek and the surrounding forest.
The trail is known for its historic significance, as it passes by several historic ruins, including the ruins of the Sope Creek Paper Mill, which was built in the mid-1800s and played a significant role in the area’s industrial development. The trail also features several footbridges that cross over the creek and offer views of the water and the wildlife that inhabit the area.
The Sope Creek Trail is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, as well as history buffs who are interested in exploring the area’s rich past. The trail is relatively easy to navigate and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
In addition to hiking, visitors to the Sope Creek Trail can also enjoy picnicking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The trail is open year-round and admission is free, but visitors should be aware that parking fees may apply at certain trailheads. - Kennesaw Mountain Trail is a hiking trail located in the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, just northwest of Atlanta, Georgia, United States. The trail is approximately 5 miles long and features scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
The Kennesaw Mountain Trail is known for its historic significance, as it passes through the site of a Civil War battle that took place in 1864. The trail features several interpretive markers that provide information about the battle and the soldiers who fought there.
The trail is also popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts, as it offers a challenging climb to the top of Kennesaw Mountain, which is the highest point in the park. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of the Atlanta skyline, as well as the surrounding forests and hills.
In addition to hiking, visitors to the Kennesaw Mountain Trail can also enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife watching. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
The Kennesaw Mountain Trail is open year-round and admission is free. However, parking fees may apply at certain trailheads, so it’s important to check before heading out. - Vickery Creek Trail is a hiking trail located in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Roswell, Georgia, United States. The trail is approximately 5 miles long and features scenic views of the Vickery Creek and the surrounding forest.
The Vickery Creek Trail is known for its historic significance, as it passes by several historic ruins, including the Roswell Mill, which was built in the mid-1800s and played a significant role in the area’s industrial development. The trail also features several footbridges that cross over the creek and offer views of the water and the wildlife that inhabit the area.
The trail is popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts, as it offers a relatively easy hike through a scenic area. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of the creek, the ruins, and the surrounding forest.