Grab your bike helmet or hiking boots and embark on a new adventure along these trails in north Fulton County.
Big Creek Greenway, Alpharetta and Roswell
Hike and bike | 8 miles
Multiple access points, including North Point Parkway, Haynes Bridge Road, Kimball Bridge Road, Preston Ridge Road and Marconi Drive in Alpharetta, and Big Creek Park in Roswell.
Hours: Trails open during daylight hours.
The Alpharetta section of the Big Creek Greenway accommodates hikers and bikers of all skill levels, including both8 miles of paved trails and a more intense unpaved hiking trail. The greenway meanders through the Big Creek flood plain, offering a tranquil environment for nature lovers. NOTE: Big Creek is the only trail in our list that allows bicycles.
FREE: www.bigcreekgreenway.com
Vickery Creek Trail at Old Mill Park
Hike | More than 5 miles
95 Mill View Ave., Roswell
Hours: Dawn to dusk.
This gorgeous trail takes hikers on a historic walk through the Roswell Mill Civil War ruins and along the bank of a rushing Chattahoochee River tributary. A covered bridge and a spillway dam waterfall are just a few of the sights on this 5-plus mile trail. The Vickery Creek Trail is a moderate intensity route but is still appropriate for a hike with kids. No bikes.
FREE: More details here.
» RELATED: 7 must-visit spots on the Chattahoochee River
Jones Bridge Trail
Hike | 5 miles
8615 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek 30022
Hours: Open during daylight hours.
One of Fulton County's most scenic hikes, the Jones Bridge Trail curves along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. The centerpiece of the trail is Jones Bridge itself, a looming skeletal frame that stretches across the river. Hikers will enjoy a moderate terrain with plenty of wonderful views. No bikes.
FREE: More details here.
Chattahoochee Nature Center
Hike | Six trails ranging from .16 miles to .50 miles
9135 Willeo Road, Roswell
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday
On the center's six trails, beginner and experienced hikers can journey past a stone cabin, a home from the 1940s, Kingfisher Pond, a bald eagle aviary, a gravesite, wetlands and the Chattahoochee River. You'll find an array of wildlife and plant life, for photos and educational purposes, but pets are not allowed. The center also offers guided trail hikes with docents, as well as bird watcher hikes. Combine your hike with a visit to the center for a wildlife encounter, special event or other program to get the most out of your admission. No bikes.
TICKETS: $10 adults; $7 ages 65 and up and ages 13-18; $6 ages 3-12; free 2 and under. www.chattnaturecenter.org
» RELATED: 4 must-visit Atlanta stores for the outdoor adventurer
Big Trees Forest Preserve
Hike | Several trails, with the longest 3/4 mile
7645 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Leisurely hikers will love this 30-acre nature preserve that serves as a designated tree, plant and wildlife sanctuary. With several trails to choose from, Big Trees Forest Preserve is ideal for hikers and walkers who want to enjoy nature at a slower pace. Pets on leashes are welcome, but the park prohibits running and biking. No bikes.
FREE: www.bigtreesforest.com
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