Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Atlanta, Georgia, United States
1. Appalachian Trail (Georgia Section)
The northernmost section of the famous Appalachian Trail, starting at Springer Mountain. It offers diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to dense forests.
- Length: Over 70 miles long, perfect for multi-day hiking adventures.
- Diverse Terrain: Offers a variety of terrains, including challenging uphill sections and picturesque valleys.
- Rich Wildlife: Home to a wide array of wildlife, making each hike an exciting exploration.
2. Allen Delamater National Scout Reserve
A unique hiking destination for scouts and non-scouts alike. It features over 14 miles of marked trails through diverse woodlands.
- Scouting Activities: Offers special activities for scouts, like merit badge classes and advanced hiking courses.
- Diverse Woodlands: Features a variety of woodland ecosystems, from hardwood forests to pine plantations.
- Group Camping: Ideal for group camping and educational hiking experiences.
3. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Follow the 48-mile Chattahoochee River through Atlanta's northwest suburbs for beautiful views and wildlife spotting.
- Urban Setting: An urban hiking trail, offering easy access to nature within city limits.
- Waterfront Views: Features stunning views of the Chattahoochee River and its surrounding ecosystem.
- Recreational Activities: Offers additional activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking along the trail.
4. Cloudland Canyon State Park
Experience breathtaking canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails at this beautiful state park in northwest Georgia.
- Canyon Overlooks: Features stunning overlooks of the deep canyons, offering unparalleled views.
- Waterfalls: Home to two beautiful waterfalls, Cherokee and Hemlock Falls.
- Camping Opportunities: Offers various camping options for overnight stays in the park.
5. Vickery Creek Wildlife Area
A serene hiking area along the Chattahoochee River with diverse wildlife and opportunities for birdwatching.
- Wildlife Observation: Ideal for observing various types of wildlife, including birds, deer, and raccoons.
- Birdwatching: Features a variety of bird species, making it popular among birdwatchers.
- Peaceful Setting: Offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for an enjoyable hiking experience.
6. Panola Mountain State Park
Explore the unique sandstone dome and diverse habitats at this beautiful state park.
- Sandstone Dome: Features a distinctive sandstone dome, offering unique views from the summit.
- Diverse Habitats: Home to diverse habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands.
- Nature Center: Features an educational nature center with exhibits about the park's geology and wildlife.
7. Dallas Landing Trail at Lake Allatoona
A scenic hiking trail that follows the shores of beautiful Lake Allatoona.
- Lake Views: Offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
- Boat Access: Accessible by boat, making it easy to explore multiple trail sections.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
8. Sweetwater Creek State Park
Explore Civil War history and beautiful natural landscapes at this state park.
- Civil War History: Features a historic mill ruin from the American Civil War.
- Waterfall Hike: Includes a hike to the picturesque Sweetwater Creek waterfall.
- Camping Opportunities: Offers camping opportunities for overnight stays in the park.
9. Silver Comet Trail
A paved trail perfect for hiking, biking, or rollerblading that stretches over 60 miles.
- Length: One of the longest continuous paved trails in Georgia.
- Multi-Use Trail: Designed for hiking, biking, and rollerblading, making it accessible to all abilities.
- Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of the countryside and nearby cities.
10. Benton MacKaye Trail
A lesser-known hiking trail that connects the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Springer Mountain in Georgia.
- Long Distance Hiking: Ideal for long-distance backpacking adventures.
- Remote Setting: Provides a remote, unspoiled hiking experience in the North Georgia mountains.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Traverses diverse ecosystems, from forests to mountain ridges.
11. Coosa Trail
A challenging backcountry trail through the Chattahoochee National Forest.
- Backcountry Hiking: Ideal for experienced hikers seeking a remote and challenging hike.
- Wilderness Setting: Provides a wilderness experience in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
- Remote Campsites: Features remote campsites for overnight stays during your hike.
12. FDR State Park
Hike through a beautiful park with scenic views of Lake Allatoona and the surrounding mountains.
- Lake Views: Offers stunning views of Lake Allatoona and the nearby mountains.
- Historical Landmark: Features a historical FDR cabin and other artifacts from Franklin D. Roosevelt's visits to the park.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
13. Red Top Mountain State Park
Hike through rolling hills, forests, and along the beautiful Lake Allatoona.
- Lake Views: Offers stunning views of Lake Allatoona and the surrounding landscapes.
- Challenging Terrain: Features challenging hills for experienced hikers.
- Scenic Beauty: Known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
14. Lost Mountain Park
A popular park with over 20 miles of hiking trails through wooded areas and along Lost Mountain.
- Length: Offers over 20 miles of hiking trails for various skill levels.
- Wooded Setting: Provides a peaceful, wooded setting for hikers.
- Close to City: Located close to Atlanta, making it easily accessible for city dwellers.
15. Wilderness Works Preserves
A network of preserves offering hiking trails with diverse ecosystems and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Features diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, such as deer, birds, and various other species.
- Multiple Preserves: Comprises multiple preserves throughout metro Atlanta, making it easy to find a hike close to home.