Although it's tempting to stay inside when there's a chill in the air, studies have shown being outside can reduce stress and lower your heart rate.
Atlanta residents have myriad places to commune with nature that are within — or not far outside — the city limits.
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Our Best of Atlanta poll asked readers: Where is the best place to hike in Atlanta?
The top six finishers were fairly close in voting.
Tied for fifth place were Cascade Springs Nature Preserve in Atlanta and Little Mulberry Park in Gwinnett County.
Cascade Springs is in the middle of the city but feels like you’re in the wilderness. It’s one of the trails in the area that comes with a waterfall.
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Little Mulberry Park has 14 miles of trails over 890 acres. Its trails range from leisurely stroll to aerobic workout, so you can choose your level of intensity.
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In fourth place was Kennesaw Mountain in Cobb County. The 2,965-acre park is popular for its trails, views and Civil War history. Starting Nov. 13, you'll have to pay to park, though, so make sure you bring some cash with you.
» Kennesaw Mountain park announces $5 fee starting next month
In third place was Sweetwater Creek State Park in Douglas County. With its variety of trails and appearances in some movies — the old mill is easily identifiable in "Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1" and "Killing Fields" — it's long been a favorite of hikers.
Our second place finisher is a top choice among dog owners. The East Palisades Trail at the Chattahoochee River is a 2.5 mile loop that descends to the river where pups and their owners play during hot weather.
» 7 spots where your pooch can splash, wade and swim in Atlanta
And our winner of the best hike in Atlanta for 2019 is:
More than a century ago, it was a major granite quarrying site. Today, it's a 2,000-acre site known for its scenic landscape and miles of hiking and biking trails. Arabia Mountain in DeKalb County won this year's voting with a fifth of the votes.
» Learn how a treasured Georgia nature preserve became what it is today
Looking for more things to do in the Atlanta area? Here are some of our Best of Atlanta winners:
» Best family attraction in metro Atlanta
» Best movie theater in Atlanta
» Best tourist attraction in Atlanta
» This is best music festival in Atlanta
And check out all of our Best of Atlanta winners so far this year.
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