The best walks and hikes in Fulton County

The Cauley Creek Park Trail offers an easy hiking experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll cover 3.6 miles (5.7 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 39 feet (12 metres), taking about 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll enjoy views of the Chattahoochee River from various overlooks, winding through open park spaces and wetland areas. A unique feature is the 5K rubberized surface, which is gentle on your joints. Look out for the connection to the restored Rogers Bridge, a pedestrian crossing that adds to the scenic journey.

Planning your visit to Cauley Creek Park is straightforward, as it's a newly developed park with ample parking. You'll find modern amenities like restrooms, picnic pavilions, and a playground, making it a comfortable destination for everyone. The park is family-friendly, and you are welcome to bring your dogs along for the hike. Access is easy, ensuring a hassle-free start to your outdoor adventure.

What sets Cauley Creek Park Trail apart is its connection to the restored Rogers Bridge, which allows you to cross over to Rogers Park for additional exploration. You will also encounter an art installation crafted from the original steel of the Rogers Bridge, blending history with the natural landscape. The trail's design through open park spaces and wetland areas provides a diverse and engaging environment.

Embark on an easy hike along the Bitsy Grant Connector and Northside Beltline Trail Loop, a refreshing escape spanning 2.3 miles (3.8 km). You'll experience a gentle elevation gain of just 90 feet (27 metres), making this route achievable in about 58 minutes. As you follow the path, you'll find yourself surrounded by a lush, tree-lined environment, offering a sense of calm away from urban life. The trail winds alongside Peachtree Creek and Tanyard Creek, where you can admire charming bridges and a distinctive covered boardwalk. You'll also pass by the Bobby Jones Golf Course, providing pleasant views of open green spaces.

This family-friendly hiking route is highly accessible, making it simple to plan your visit. You'll find multiple convenient parking areas, including spots at the Bitsy Grant Tennis Center, Atlanta Memorial Park, and Tanyard Creek Park. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on this trail, making it a great option for a walk with your furry companion. Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day for the most comfortable experience.

The trail is nestled within Atlanta Memorial Park, showcasing why Atlanta is often called the "City in a Forest." It offers a unique opportunity to feel far removed from the city's hustle and bustle, despite being centrally located. The route's design along the creeks and through parkland provides a continuous green corridor, highlighting the city's commitment to preserving natural spaces for recreation and enjoyment.

Explore the Roswell Area Park Orange Loop, an easy hiking route that offers a pleasant escape into nature. This trail covers 1.9 miles (3.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 46 feet (14 metres), making it perfect for a quick outing. You can expect to complete the loop in about 48 minutes, winding through peaceful, shaded forested areas and past open spaces, with views of a large fountain pond.

When planning your visit, you will find ample parking available at Roswell Area Park. The trail itself is paved and flat, which makes it suitable for strollers and motorized wheelchairs, ensuring accessibility for many. Clean restrooms and convenient rest stops are located along the route, providing comfort during your hike.

The Orange Loop is a well-maintained community hub, offering a chance to spot local wildlife like geese and deer, especially in the wooded sections. These areas are particularly beautiful during spring and fall. The trail's design provides a natural setting within the park, allowing you to enjoy a tranquil experience close to home.

The East Palisades North Loop offers an easy hiking experience, covering 2.7 miles (4.4 km) with a gentle climb of 159 feet (48 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 11 minutes. As you hike, you'll find diverse terrain, from flat sections along the river to some mild uphill stretches. Keep an eye out for the unique bamboo forest, where tall stalks create a distinct atmosphere. You'll also enjoy expansive views of the Chattahoochee River, including its whitewater shoals.

To start your hike, you can find parking at either the Indian Trail Entrance or the Whitewater Creek Entrance. Be aware that there is typically a $5 fee required for parking. While the trail system is generally marked, using a GPS app can be helpful to navigate the winding paths. This route is also dog-friendly, offering sandy spots perfect for your companions to enjoy.

This loop is located within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, providing a natural escape close to the city. Beyond the bamboo forest, you might spot old stone bridges and historic ruins along the way, adding to the trail's character. From certain overlooks, such as the Chattahoochee River Overlook, you can even catch glimpses of the Atlanta skyline.

The Wills Park Loop offers an easy hiking experience on paved paths, perfect for a relaxed outing in Alpharetta, Georgia. As you follow the route, you will wind through a vibrant community atmosphere, passing by ball fields and other park amenities. The trail is shaded by a thriving tree canopy, providing a pleasant green stroll over its 2.0 miles (3.3 km) distance, with a gentle elevation gain of 95 feet (29 metres).

This accessible loop is designed for convenience, taking approximately 51 minutes to complete at an easy pace. You will find ample parking available within the expansive Wills Park, making your visit straightforward. The paved surface ensures the route is friendly for wheelchairs, strollers, and dogs, allowing everyone to enjoy a smooth experience.

Part of a larger green space, the Wills Park Loop provides a refreshing escape right within the city. It is a popular choice for families and dog walkers seeking a pleasant outdoor activity. The trail's integration into this community park highlights its role as an easily accessible natural amenity for local residents and visitors alike.

Embark on an easy hike along the Garrard Landing Park Loop, a peaceful 1.9-mile (3.1 km) route that winds through natural surroundings. You'll experience minimal elevation gain, just 40 feet (12 metres), making it a comfortable walk for about 47 minutes. The trail offers a serene atmosphere as it follows the scenic Chattahoochee River, passing a tranquil man-made reservoir and a babbling brook. Keep an eye out for the charming covered bridge, a distinctive landmark that adds to the route's appeal. This easy loop is perfect for a relaxing outing, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and potentially spot local wildlife within its wooded areas.

Planning your visit to Garrard Landing Park is straightforward, as ample parking is available right at the trailhead. The park is well-equipped with amenities, including a playground and open meadows, making it an excellent choice for families. You can easily access the Chattahoochee River from the park, with a dedicated kayak ramp available for non-motorized boats. Consider visiting during quieter times to fully appreciate the park's natural tranquility.

This trail stands out for its accessibility and the opportunity to connect with nature close to Roswell, Georgia. The park is often described as being

The Nature Center Trail offers an easy hike through varied landscapes, perfect for a quick outdoor escape. You will wind through woodlands and alongside streams, experiencing the peaceful forest surroundings. Keep an eye out for Little Bear Creek Falls, a beautiful highlight along the way, showcasing local ecosystems. This route covers 2.1 miles (3.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 133 feet (41 metres), making it an easy trek that takes about 55 minutes to complete. It's a great way to immerse yourself in nature without a strenuous effort.

Planning your visit to the Nature Center Trail is straightforward. You can typically find ample parking directly at the Cochran Mill Nature Center trailhead. Many nature centers provide visitor facilities, so you might expect amenities like restrooms and interpretive displays before or after your hike. This makes it convenient for families or anyone looking for a comfortable outdoor experience. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene walk.

This trail is an excellent example of local ecosystems, offering chances to see diverse flora and fauna throughout your journey. It's an ideal choice if you are seeking a short, accessible nature experience within Cochran Mill Park. The trail's focus on natural observation makes it a rewarding option for those interested in local wildlife and plant life. It stands out as a well-maintained path for a refreshing outdoor break.

Embark on the Roswell Riverwalk Trail, a moderate 8.8 miles (14.1 km) hike that follows the Chattahoochee River. You will experience diverse terrain, from paved sections to boardwalks over wetlands and some dirt paths, gaining 121 feet (37 metres) in elevation. This tranquil route takes about 3 hours and 35 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant journey through lush vegetation. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you hike.

Planning your visit to the Roswell Riverwalk Trail is straightforward, as it is highly accessible. You can easily start your hike from several connected parks, including Riverside Park, Azalea Park, and Don White Memorial Park. These locations offer convenient parking options. You will also find amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, pavilions, and play areas at these access points.

This trail is a notable part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, providing a unique opportunity to explore the river's ecosystem. The path winds through beautiful wetlands, especially near its beginning, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. It connects various green spaces, offering a continuous natural escape within the urban fringe.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Roswell Riverwalk Trail, a scenic route that follows the Chattahoochee River. You will wind through lush vegetation and picturesque wetlands, often on well-maintained boardwalks that offer peaceful immersion in nature. Keep an eye out for the serene Frog Pond as you cover the 8.8 miles (14.1 km) of trail. This journey involves a gentle elevation gain of 121 feet (37 metres) and typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes to complete.

This multi-use greenway is perfect for a leisurely day out, welcoming not only hikers but also bikers and runners. It is considered both family-friendly and dog-friendly, though you must keep your canine companions on a leash. The trail conveniently connects several local parks, including Azalea Park and Riverside Park, offering various access points for you to begin your adventure. Consider starting early to enjoy the tranquility before it gets busy.

As you explore the Riverwalk, you will discover more than just natural beauty; the route also features historical elements. Look out for the Homestead Trail and Chimney Ruins, which offer glimpses into the area's past. This trail provides a unique blend of outdoor recreation and historical interest within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, making it a notable destination for a relaxed outing.