8 spectacular hiking trails around Atlanta
Explore ATL’s natural beauty with the best hikes to be found around town.
Kristy Lytle
April 17, 2024
Atlanta is renowned for its bustling city life, rich history, and diverse culture. However, nestled amidst its urban sprawl lies a plethora of breathtaking hiking trails for those seeking the tranquility of nature. From serene woodlands to cascading waterfalls, Atlanta and its surrounding areas boast an array of hiking experiences that cater to adventurers of all levels. Whether you’re seeking a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll, these 8 handpicked trails promise unforgettable encounters with nature’s wonders.
East Palisades Trail
Location: Northwest Atlanta
Trail Length: 4-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Just a mere 20 minutes from downtown, East Palisades Trail is actually a series of trails that hug the Chattahoochee River. The trails are dog friendly (please remember leashes are required) with plenty of sandy beaches for your pup to run off some energy and then cool off with a dip in the river. You can also find breathtaking views of metro Atlanta. East Palisades is most known for its Instagram-worthy bamboo forest, located at trail marker EP 26. If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, some trails take you to exhilarating high-elevation views of the Chattahoochee.
Morningside Nature Trail
Location: Morningside
Trail Length: 1.6-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Located in North Atlanta, this easy trail loops through the Morningside Nature Preserve, which boasts 33 acres of secluded forest teeming with dense vegetation. On quieter days, hikers may spot foxes, turtles, beavers, and other wildlife that call the preserve home. Canine companions are welcome as long as they are on a leash. In fact, there’s a sandy stretch beneath the suspended wooden bridge traversing the South Fork Peachtree River, affectionately dubbed the “dog beach” by locals due to its popularity among four-legged trail visitors. Many also consider this off-trail spot the ideal location for a picnic, so be sure to bring along some provisions if you plan to pause for a bite.
Vickery Creek Trail at Roswell Mill
Location: Roswell
Trail Length: 4.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Vickery Creek Trail at Roswell Mill is an almost 5-mile network of trails that wind through a fern-filled forest with many delightful sights along the way. Near the Mill, you’ll find a large covered wooden bridge with stunning views of Vickery Creek rushing by below you. The waterfall (technically it’s a spillway dam) is another popular location to stop and catch your breath. If you’re lucky, you might even spy a heron fishing for its next meal in the creek. History buffs will enjoy inspecting the ruins of the old Roswell Manufacturing Company Mills, built in 1839 and 1853.
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Location: Southwest Atlanta
Trail Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve is a whopping 125-acre preserve located just 20 minutes from downtown. You’ll hike through the old-growth forest over multiple streams and through a Civil War battlefield. Other historic sites along the trail include an old pump house remains, trenches dating back to the Civil War, and a stone spring house covered with spongy green moss. This slightly strenuous hike is worth it for a view of the wondrous natural Cascade Falls waterfall.
Kennesaw Mountain – Mountain Loop
Location: Marietta
Trail Length: 5.8-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park offers over 22 miles of trails across nearly 3,000 acres of preserved land, managed by the National Park Service, providing both stunning natural beauty and historical significance. The Mountain Loop trail, spanning nearly six miles and circling the park’s highest peak, is a favorite among visitors, offering panoramic views of Atlanta and insights into the area’s Cherokee heritage and Civil War history. With trails catering to hikers, runners, and history enthusiasts alike, Kennesaw Mountain promises an enriching outdoor experience blending both nature and heritage.
Arabia Mountain – Mile Rock Trail and Forest Trail
Location: Stonecrest
Trail Length: 2-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
The Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, located east of Atlanta, showcases a rich tapestry of landscapes across its rolling terrain, offering over thirty miles of hiking trails. The two-mile loop journey along the Mile Rock Trail and Forest Trail takes hikers through a shady forest, across expansive granite fields, and past a tranquil lake, showcasing diverse flora. With gentle elevation changes and well-marked trails, this route is suitable for beginners and families. Completing the loop at the Arabia Mountain Nature Center, visitors can immerse themselves in the area’s scenic beauty, punctuated by remnants of historic mining structures and abundant wildlife.
Red Top Mountain State Park – Homestead Trail
Location: Acworth
Trail Length: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
The Homestead Trail at Red Top Mountain State Park offers a captivating five-mile loop adventure, winding along the picturesque contours of Lake Allatoona’s shoreline. Beginning at the park’s visitor center, hikers are immersed in a lush forest filled with ferns and wildlife, gradually making their way toward the tranquil lake. Along the trail, vibrant wildflowers dot the landscape, complementing the stunning views of the iron-rich soil contrasting with the lake’s cool hues. The loop meanders through valleys and ascends to small knolls, providing ample opportunities to spot a variety of woodland creatures. With options for shorter or longer excursions, the Homestead Trail promises a rewarding outdoor experience suitable for hikers of all skill levels, complete with convenient access points and well-marked pathways.
Big Creek Greenway – Alpharetta Section
Location: Alpharetta
Trail Length: 9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
The Big Creek Greenway, spanning 26 miles through Cumming, Alpharetta, and Roswell, offers a scenic journey along Big Creek, beginning at the City Limits of Alpharetta and Roswell and ending at the Marconi Trailhead. The 9-mile concrete trail runs parallel to North Point Parkway, offering glimpses of wildlife like blue herons, deer, ducks, and geese in the preserved water settings along the way. Divided into sections, the trail includes recreational amenities like restrooms and designated picnic areas.
Want more ways to get outside and explore Atlanta? Subscribe to the Localite newsletter.
Share this article
Nearby Cortland Locations
Nearby Cortland Locations
5 phenomenal places for pizza in Phoenix
These are the must-try spots if you’re looking for the best pizza in Phoenix.
Move over, New York City: Phoenix has been considered a top pizza destination nationally for many years now, thanks to a wide variety of styles and a roster of award-winning chefs who aren’t shy about using a cornucopia of ingredients.
Whether you want a whisper-thin Neapolitan pie or a gooey, gargantuan Chicago deep dish, you’re in luck. And all of these pizzerias offer a superb sit-down experience as well as takeout.
The Parlor Pizzeria
Phoenix
The Parlor has racked up an impressive number of “best of” honors from local and national publications since opening in 2009 in a former midcentury beauty salon (note the double entendre of “beauty/pizza parlor” and the old-school bucket hair dryer by the bathroom). This is a destination not just for its sustainable, hip design, but also for its delectable wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, impressive yet affordable Italian-heavy wine list, and inventive cocktails. It’s also vegan-friendly.
Pizzeria Bianco
2 Phoenix locations
James Beard Award winner Chris Bianco put Phoenix pizza on the map way back in the 1990s and got national recognition for the first of many times in 2004 when a New York Times writer deemed his artisanal wood-fired pies with homemade mozzarella and locally sourced toppings the best in the nation. To get the full story, watch the first episode of Chef’s Table on Netflix, which focuses on the humble chef and his craft. Pro tip: Though the original downtown Heritage Square location of Pizzeria Bianco is nestled in a charming historic building with a cozy adjacent wine bar for the inevitable long waits, the one at the parking-rich Town and Country shopping center can be easier to navigate.
Pizzeria Virtù
Scottsdale
Chef Gio Osso has a lot of tricks up his sleeve and ethereal Neapolitan pizza is among them. The puffed perimeter crust tapers down to a paper-thin center and the toppings are delicate and exquisite, from dabs of smoky pancetta to spicy soppressata and sweet chestnut honey. The elegant white-tablecloth ambiance and outstanding Italian wine selection at Pizzeria Virtù are ideal for a classy date night.
Spinato’s Pizzeria
6 locations Valleywide
This family-owned local chain is beloved for many reasons: Its signature sweet tomato sauce made from fresh California fruits is lip-smacking, its crispy crust has a glorious crunch, the service is exceptional and its longevity (it was founded in 1974) is admirable. Also, its cheery, contemporary restaurants are inviting for everything from an intimate happy hour to a big group outing, even with kids in tow. Fun fact: Spinato’s is the official pizza of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury and serves the same high-quality pies at Footprint Arena as at its freestanding locations.
Vero Chicago Pizza
6 locations Valleywide
Chicago transplants will tell you there’s no contest: Vero’s deep-dish pizza is a true taste of home. Fresh, crave-worthy toppings (including possibly the best Italian beef outside of the Windy City), a trio of cheeses, tangy, chunky sauce, and a golden-brown crust lift Vero head and shoulders above all others in town, and their thin crust is no slouch, either. With names like Lake Shore Drive, The Loop, and Wrigley Field, it’s the next best thing to grabbing a flight to Midway.
Get the best of Phoenix delivered right to your inbox when you subscribe to the Localite newsletter.
Share this article
Nearby Cortland Locations
Nearby Cortland Locations
Your ultimate guide to FoodieLand Dallas
Embark on a flavorful journey with top vendors and global delicacies from April 19 to 21.
Attention all food enthusiasts! Brace yourselves for an extraordinary culinary adventure as FoodieLand descends upon Dallas. This isn’t just any food festival; it’s an immersive journey through the vibrant tapestry of culinary delights. This guide will provide essential tips, must-try vendors, and insider insights to ensure you make the most of your experience.
When to Go
FoodieLand Dallas is a three-day culinary festival that will take place from April 19 to 21. It offers a wide variety of food and exciting activities for everyone, whether you prefer to go out on Friday or have a weekend to spare. To avoid long lines and get the best out of the festival, you should plan your visit to coincide with your favorite food vendors and arrive early. So, don’t miss the chance to indulge in mouth-watering dishes and activities at the FoodieLand Dallas festival.
What to Wear
Dress comfortably and be prepared for a day filled with walking, eating, and exploring. Opt for casual attire and comfortable shoes to navigate the festival grounds with ease. As Dallas weather can be unpredictable in April, consider layering your clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat for outdoor activities, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Plan Your Schedule
With so much to see and taste at FoodieLand Dallas, it’s essential to plan your schedule in advance. Check out the festival map and vendor lineup ahead of time to prioritize your must-try dishes and activities. Consider creating a rough itinerary to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the highlights of this Dallas food festival.
Get Your Tickets Now
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this culinary spectacle. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or simply someone who appreciates good food, FoodieLand Dallas promises an unforgettable event that will ignite your senses and ignite your culinary passions. Tickets are available now on the FoodieLand website. They’re $6 for adults, and children under five get in for free. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
The Vendor Lineup
One of the most exciting aspects of FoodieLand is its stellar lineup of vendors, and the Dallas edition is no exception. Let’s take a sneak peek at some of the participating vendors who are poised to steal the show.
Baan Thai
Baan Thai offers a genuine experience of Thai cuisine, taking diners on a culinary journey to the heart of Thailand. Be sure to try their signature skewers, which are bursting with flavor and perfectly grilled to perfection.
Dallas Bakehouse
Dallas Bakehouse is a bakery that offers various treats, ranging from sweet biscotti to indulgent macarons. These sweets are crafted using time-honored techniques and premium ingredients, resulting in beautiful and delicious creations. Whether you’re looking for a sweet pick-me-up or searching for the perfect dessert to end the day, Dallas Bakehouse has something to satisfy your craving.
Ghostix
Ghostix is more than just a corn dog shop; it is a family-driven business that is passionate about creativity and culinary excellence. Established in 2017, they serve delicious Korean-style corn dogs at night markets, concerts, and private events. Be sure to request extra napkins, as you’ll want to savor every last bite of these savory treats.
Fusion Eats
This vibrant eatery offers a fusion of flavors from around the world, bringing together diverse culinary traditions to create unique and unforgettable dishes. From crispy avocado rolls to crispy fried wings doused in garlic butter, every bite at Fusion Eats is a journey of discovery and delight. Explore their menu of bold and inventive dishes, each showcasing the best ingredients and techniques from various cuisines.
Beyond the Food
FoodieLand is more than just a food festival — it’s a celebration of community, culture, and entertainment. In addition to sampling delicious dishes from top vendors, be sure to check out the various activities and attractions available throughout the festival grounds. From live musical performances to carnival games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Bring the whole family and make a day of it, exploring all that FoodieLand has to offer.
Capture the Memories
Make sure to capture the memories of your FoodieLand experience! Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to snap photos of your favorite dishes, vendors, and moments throughout the festival. Share your photos on social media using #FoodieLand so that you can connect with fellow foodies and share your culinary adventures.
A Foodie Weekend
Make it a totally food-filled weekend. Explore the city’s vibrant food scene by dining at local restaurants, visiting farmers markets, or taking a culinary tour of the city’s neighborhoods. With so much to see and taste, you’ll want to savor every moment of your Dallas foodie adventure.
Subscribe to the Localite newsletter for more Dallas events and information!
Share this article
