Cascade Springs Trail
Atlanta, Georgia
Details
Distance
1.78 miles
Elevation Gain
187 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Kelley Le
Cascade Springs offers a serene hike right in southwest Atlanta, featuring a waterfall, an old cave tunnel, and over 100 acres of forest to explore.
A quick and local getaway from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta city life, Cascade Springs Nature Preserve offers over 100 acres of forested trails that lead to Utoy Creek and Cascade Falls.
The trail starts at the parking area and leads to a boardwalk where old historical structures stand alongside the path. At the end of the boardwalk sits a stone structure surrounded and covered by moss. From here, there are two options.
Option 1: Traverse the trail towards the right for a nice long stroll through fairly dense forest before reaching Utoy Creek, Cascade Falls, and the old cave tunnel at the end of the trail loop.
Option 2: Traverse the trail towards the left to immediately go towards Utoy Creek, Cascade Falls, and the old cave tunnel.
Where Cascade Falls leads into Utoy Creek, there is this old cave tunnel above it. The tunnel has vines that drop from the top, creating a partial curtain over the tunnel. There are plenty of boulders around, which is great for walking around, sitting and enjoying nature, and splashing in the waters.
If you are feeling a bit adventurous, there is also a path that leads to the opening of the tunnel where you can walk into it, but be careful since the rocks can be slippery.
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Cascade Springs Trail Reviews
This is a special urban oasis. Unfortunately since growing in popularity over the years, the waterfall area is not as well-kept. Still, the forest is so peaceful, lots of opportunities for spotting cool birds. A good place to trail run too!
5.0
Great hike. Plenty of shade. Great for kids. Pretty easy trail.
5.0
Have an itch for a mini hike? This is your spot! With a miniature waterfall and green, lush paths, this is the perfect quick getaway. Will be back again.
5.0
This trial is a gem full of greenery found in a very unlikely urban setting. It's true the ivy covered tunnel is spectacular, but the true beauty lies in the surrounding forest. The trail takes on almost a magical feeling as you wander amongst the mature trees and mossy floors. The trail map says it is around 2 miles long; however, there are many offshoots deriving from the main trail, so if you wish to prolong your time in the forest I would advise taking the paths "less traveled by".
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Connally Nature Preserve
Sweet Auburn District Walking Tour
Eastside Trail of the Atlanta Beltline
Atlanta Botanical Garden and Storza Woods Loop Trail
Carter Center, Freedom Park, Olmsted Linear Parks
Doll's Head Loop
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