Cochran Shoals West Loop from Interstate North Trailhead

The East Palisades trail is one of the only real hiking trails within Atlanta's perimeter.  Although it boasts surprising beauty and great trails, relatively few people in the city are aware this trail even exists.  As part of the Chattahoochee National Recreation Area, this section of forest is very well preserved and boasts some of the best views along the Chattahoochee river.  Even though th...

Sope Creek is a little slice of wild heaven squeezed into the hustle and bustle of Atlanta's metro madness. Bordering the Chattahoochee River, Interstate 285, and Suburbia sprawl, Sope Creek offers the city dweller an environmental escape that seems too good to be true. From the parking lot off Sope Creek Rd ,Take the Sope Creek Trail (blue blazes) that drop down to Spoke Creek. Once you arr...

Blue Heron Nature Preserve is located directly off of the heavily trafficked Roswell Road in Buckhead.  The preserve boasts seven acres of greenery, wetlands, meadows, wildlife, and wildflowers.  There is even an educational facility located on the grounds for those extra curious explorers.  This park is dog-friendly, but be sure to bring doggy waste bags if your furry companion is tagging alon...

Big Trees is truly a backyard beauty. The entrance connector brings you through to the beginning of the trails. If you are low on time, try out the Big Trees Loop (1/2 mile) which appears slightly before the major Backcountry trail system. Without going too deep into the preserve, you can still enjoy a peaceful getaway under the towering canopies of dogwoods and oak trees alike.If you choose to...

Park your car on the residential road and look across the street into the woods for the trail. The trail winds around through a bamboo forest with streams winding in and out. The trail splits and you can either take the high road or low road closer to the river. Both trails meet back up near the river (Peachtree Creek) and the really cool suspension bridge.From here, you can take a right towar...

You’re going to be really surprised you’re still in Roswell, or in the Atlanta area at all. When you get out of your car and start walking down the wooden stairs at the start of the trail, the busy sounds of the rushing cars on Atlanta Street fade away into the wind flowing through the Tulip Poplar trees. You look up, and there’s color - everywhere. You immediately feel isolated from the rest o...