The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Douglas County

A five-story 19th-century textile mill, built in the 1840s, was once the heart of the village of New Manchester and produced cotton yarn for the Confederacy during the American Civil War. • What can you see from the trail? The imposing red brick walls of the ruins tower above the banks of Sweetwater Creek. You can see them from about a half-mile along the Red Trail. The building is partially overgrown, giving it a mysterious and photogenic character. • Historical Significance In July 1864, the mill was destroyed by General Sherman's troops during his march on Atlanta. The ruins have been preserved ever since as a reminder of this turbulent period in American history. • Film History The ruins served as a backdrop for films such as The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 and Avengers: Infinity War, making it a popular spot for film buffs and photographers.

During my hike along the Yellow Trail in Sweetwater Creek State Park, I soon came across an impressive bridge that connects the access roads with the eastern hiking trails. This large steel and wooden bridge spans the fast-flowing Sweetwater Creek and provides a literal and figurative transition from civilization to the tranquility of the forest. From the center of the bridge, you have a magnificent view of the creek's whitewater shoals and the historic ruins of the New Manchester Mill on the other side. The contrast between the rust-colored steel of the bridge, the clear blue water, and the green of the surrounding forests is particularly photogenic. The bridge is not only a visual highlight but also a key junction in the trail network. It connects the Red Trail with the Yellow Trail, allowing for a varied loop through both sections of the park.

Jack’s Lake Waterfall is a scenic destination for trail runners who enjoy a challenge. The trail is about 4.5 miles long and follows the Jack’s River, crossing it several times over wooden bridges. The waterfall is a spectacular sight, especially after a heavy rain, and offers a refreshing spray for runners who need to cool off. The trail is moderately difficult, with some steep and rocky sections, but also some flat and smooth areas. Runners should be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the trail is located in a remote and forested area.

The New Manchester Mill Ruins are located in the Sweetwater Creek State Park, which offers a variety of trails for different skill levels. You can follow the Red Trail, which is rated easy to difficult, to reach the ruins of the cotton mill that was burned by Union troops during the Civil War. Along the way, you can enjoy the views of the white-water rapids and the lush greenery of the park. The trail is about one mile long and has some rocky and steep sections, so be prepared for a challenging run. The New Manchester Mill Ruins are a great place to explore the history and nature of Georgia while getting some exercise.

Jack’s Lake is located near the Sweetwater Creek State Park, which is home to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a historic cotton mill that was burned down by the Union Army during the Civil War. It is a great place to experience the natural and cultural beauty of Georgia while getting a good workout.

Jack’s Hill is part of the historic Santa Fe Trail, which was used by traders and settlers in the 19th century. You can see the trail ruts at the Ivan L. Boyd Prairie Preserve and the Black Jack Park, where the Battle of Black Jack took place in 1856. The trails here offer a variety of terrain, from river bottomlands and marshes to upland forests and open meadows. You can also enjoy the views of the George H. Sparks Reservoir and the Sweetwater Creek rapids. Jack’s Hill is a great place to experience the natural and cultural heritage of Douglas County while getting a good workout.

A bridge made of wood and metal crosses over Sweetwater Creek. The bridge was built in 2012 after flooding destroyed the previous bridge.

The ruins of New Manchester Manufacturing Company, originally known as the Sweetwater Mill. The building was once a cotton mill, built in 1849, that was burned during the American Civil War. Various films, such as The Hunger Games, have used this area as a scenic backdrop.