Atlanta’s Best Parks for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Atlanta has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts, from its many parks and trails to its proximity to the Chattahoochee River. Whether you’re looking for a place to hike, bike, kayak, or relax in nature, Atlanta has you covered.

Here are a few of the best parks in Atlanta for outdoor enthusiasts:

Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s largest urban park, a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. The park has something for everyone, with hiking, biking, and running trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and a dog park. There’s also a lake where you can rent paddleboats and kayaks.

Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain Park is a 3,200-acre park located just east of Atlanta. The park is home to the world’s largest exposed granite dome and various other attractions, including hiking trails, a scenic railway, and a Skyride. You can also climb to the top of Stone Mountain for stunning views of the surrounding area.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

A 48-mile section of the Chattahoochee River that passes through Atlanta is protected as the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Several people visit the river to swim, fish, and kayak. Trails for walking and riding bicycles can be found all along the riverbank.

Sweetwater Creek State Park

Around 25 miles west of downtown Atlanta, you’ll find Sweetwater Creek State Park. Sweetwater Creek runs through the park and is a hotspot for water activities like swimming, fishing, and tubing. The park features a covered bridge, a grist mill, and hiking routes.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Located in the heart of Atlanta, the Atlanta Botanical Garden spans an expansive 30 acres. The garden is home to various plants and flowers from all over the world, as well as some specialty gardens, such as the Rose Garden, the Orchid Display House, and the Japanese Garden. There are also several trails in the park for walking and hiking.

Here are some activities you can enjoy at each of these parks:

Piedmont Park:

• Hike the Piedmont Park Trail, a 1.2-mile loop trail that winds through the park.
• Rent a paddleboat or kayak on the lake.
• Play a game of basketball, soccer, or baseball on one of the many sports fields.
• Let your dog run free at the Piedmont Park Dog Park.
• Enjoy a picnic on one of the many lawns.

Stone Mountain Park:

• Hike to the top of Stone Mountain for stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Take a ride on the Stone Mountain Scenic Railway, a scenic train ride that takes you around the base of Stone Mountain.
• Visit the Stone Mountain Skyride, an aerial tramway that takes you to the top of Stone Mountain.
• Explore the Confederate Memorial Carving, a massive bas-relief sculpture carved into the side of Stone Mountain.
• Play a round of golf at the Stone Mountain Golf Course.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area:

• Kayak, canoe, or fish in the Chattahoochee River.
• Hike or bike along the Chattahoochee River Trail.
• Swim in the river at one of the many swimming areas.
• Visit the Chattahoochee Nature Center, which offers exhibits and programs on the Chattahoochee River ecosystem.
• Have a picnic at one of the many picnic areas along the river.

Sweetwater Creek State Park:

• Swim, fish, or tube in Sweetwater Creek.
• Hike or bike along the Sweetwater Creek Trail.
• Visit the New Manchester Mill, a historic grist mill that offers tours and demonstrations.
• Cross the covered bridge, a historic covered bridge that spans Sweetwater Creek.
• Have a picnic at one of the many picnic areas in the park.

Atlanta Botanical Garden:

• Explore the Rose Garden, a beautiful garden with over 1,000 roses of all different varieties.
• Visit the Orchid Display House, a greenhouse home to a variety of orchids worldwide.
• Walk through the Japanese Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with koi ponds, stone lanterns, and pagodas.
• Hike the Woodland Trail, a 1.2-mile loop trail that winds through the forest.
• Enjoy a picnic on one of the many lawns.

No matter your interests, you’ll find a park in Atlanta that’s perfect for you. So get out there and explore!