Below is a list of the top and leading Hiking Trails in Atlanta, GA. To help you find the best Hiking Trails located near you in Atlanta, GA, we put together our own list based on this rating points list.
Atlanta, GA’s Best Hiking Trails:
The top-rated Hiking Trails in Atlanta, GA are:
- Northside Trail – wooded walking/cycling path through picturesque scenery, including a covered bridge & a creek.
- Doll’s Head Trail – just a few miles from downtown Atlanta is a trail covered in a crazy collection of outsider art.
- Cascade Springs Nature Preserve – amazing trail with mounded earthworks from the Civil War battle of Utoy Creek.
- Palisades West Trail – forested loop trail featuring a boardwalk section & scenic view of the river & rock outcrops.
- Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve – tranquil green space with a creek & a network of unpaved trails shaded by mature trees.
Northside Trail
Northside Trail is considered one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Georgia. This hiking trail is a mile-long path where hikers and visitors can experience nature at its best. Northside Trail is one of the best spots in Atlanta to take nature selfies. The spectacular sceneries are something to be amazed at. This hiking trail offers visitors to feel nature and its seclusion while being near the city. Families and friends can enjoy outdoor activities that will surely help you destress. Looking for an excellent hiking trail near Atlanta? Northside Trail is arguably one of the best hiking trails you should experience.
Products/Services:
Hiking, biking, camping, outdoor activities
LOCATION:
Address: Northside Beltline Trail, Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: (404) 477-3687
Website: beltline.org/northside-trail
REVIEWS:
Pleasant walking/biking trail through the woods and beside the creek. One stretch along Northside Drive is out in the open (sunny) but most of the trail is wooded and shady. If you take your dog, there are limited water stops so be sure to bring water for the pooch – John Keller
Doll’s Head Trail
Doll’s Head Trail is nestled within one of the best parks in Georgia, Constitution Lakes Park. This hiking trail can be located inside one of the most scenic nature preserves in the state. Doll’s Head Trail offers visitors and hikers a scenic and glassy experience across the lake. This multi-trail experience offers a wide variety of trail experiences from unpaved trails, wildlife-filled wetlands, and more. This brief hike showcases artwork, toys, and other trinkets across this hiking trail, giving it its name. So, if you find yourself in Atlanta and want to have a unique experience, Doll’s Head is the trail to go.
Products/Services:
Hiking, biking, camping, outdoor activities
LOCATION:
Address: 1305 S River Industrial Blvd SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
Phone: (706) 521-4453
Website: atlasobscura.com/dolls-head-trail
REVIEWS:
Fun a little quick easy hike in the city. Gives you Walking Dead vibes if you’re a fan! You’ll want to stop and check out all the oddities while you do the Doll’s Head loop. The trail is also fairly quiet which was nice…but does up the creepiness factor. – Nicole Chilcott
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve provides visitors with the experience of hiking in a scenic and beautiful landscape near Atlanta. This hiking trail has a moss-covered springhouse that’s part of history. Cascade Springs Nature Preserve is very tranquil and is what many people need if they are looking to unwind. This hiking trail is in the middle of various historic houses and plazas. The park itself is approximately 120 acres with a large network of hiking trails. If you want to experience nature in Atlanta while not straying away from city life, Cascade Springs is the way to go. So bring your family and friends on this adventure!
Products/Services:
Hiking, biking, camping, outdoor activities
LOCATION:
Address: 2852 Cascade Rd, Atlanta, GA 30311
Phone: (404) 546-6744
Website: atlantatrails.com/cascade-springs-nature-preserve
REVIEWS:
Awesome waterfalls and pools for meditation and prayer among nature. Great getaway and spiritual space for gaining clarity. The bonus of trails for running and walking. – Monique Redman
Palisades West Trail
Palisades West Trail is an almost 7-kilometer popular hiking trail that has a scenic river. This hiking trail features a variety of hiking options for the entire year. West Palisades Trail allows dogs but you need to keep them leashed. This hiking trail is also child-friendly. Outdoor activities you can do include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, running, and more. The scenic beauty of nature will surely help you unwind and reflect. The fresh air, green grass, and trees offer refuge to many wildlife that you can post on your walks. So, what are you waiting for? Bring your friends and experience West Palisades Trail in Atlanta today!
Products/Services:
Hiking, biking, camping, outdoor activities
LOCATION:
Address: 932 Akers Ridge Dr. SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
Website: alltrails.com/west-palisades-trail
REVIEWS:
Loved the views while hiking. Loved to see people jumping into the water. Everything gorgeous. I Will visit again! Wasn’t crowded at all when I went. Easy parking. Restrooms available and also life jackets! – Tanisha Hill
Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve
Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve is a hiking trail located in Atlanta that is almost 2 kilometers long. This hiking trail highlights a river and the trail is mostly used for hiking and dog walking. Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve is also kid-friendly and allows pets. You can walk your dogs as long as they are on a leash. This hiking trail has random side trails that you might enjoy. If you want a peaceful walk and hike that is not that long, this might be the hiking trail for you. You can explore the paths along the main hiking trail, as well as the river. If you want a brief hike in Atlanta, Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve is a great option to have.
Products/Services:
Hiking, biking, camping, outdoor activities
LOCATION:
Address: 1301 Beech Valley Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Phone: (404) 546-6788
Website: recplanet.com/daniel-johnson-nature-preserve
REVIEWS:
It was a peaceful and nice trail surprised that it was right by a neighborhood. The trails are a little confusing but a little exploring and you’re back on the suggested route. Would recommend! – Dipeeka Bastola
Alain Atkins is the senior editor for Kev’s Best. Alain has been working as a journalist for nearly a decade having published pieces in many print and digital publications including the Argus Leader and the Huffing Post. Alain is based in St Louis and covers issues affecting his city and state. When he’s not busy in the newsroom, Alain enjoys backpacking.