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Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
4.5 ★★★★★ 2,315 Google reviews · Running trail in Atlanta, Georgia · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Cascade Springs Nature Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Forested 120-acre nature preserve with a trail, waterfall, streams, parking lot & picnic tables.
What runners say about Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
“There are no maps on site and the blazing could be better, but the space is beautiful and suitable for all ages and abilities.”
“Easy to park with shade, currently some construction on the road before entrance but that’s minor.”
“Great trails that are very easy to navigate with small little waterfall that's relaxing enjoyable and a great place just to explore and let your mind be at ease”
“The stream and waterfall were so serene and peaceful, exactly what I needed.”
This was my 1st time hiking, and I enjoyed it so much! I got there around 8 a.m. and only a couple of people were there.The whole trail is about 1.5 miles, which is perfect. The stream and waterfall were so serene and peaceful, exactly what I needed. It is dog and kid friendly as well. I will definitely be going back.
1st time i locked eyes with a owl was in this place (see video). If it wasn't for this nature preserve I don't know if I would have made it out of 2024 with my sanity. I come here multiple times a week, sometimes daily depending on weather. There is a special rock on the hill that I meditate on. Very peaceful.
I had no idea this city park was tucked back here! What an urban oasis! Easy to park with shade, currently some construction on the road before entrance but that’s minor. Super shady getaway compared to the Beltline, there’s tables great for a picnic. Minus the ants, it’s not too buggy!
Nice trail with wooden pathways, as well as off road trails that lead westward towards the creek on the perimeter of the preserve. Many head cuts to keep the water flowing & the trickle audible. Plenty of tables/benches along the way to rest upon. On the northern perimeter, there's a mini waterfall.
Trail conditions & character
“Great trails that are very easy to navigate with small little waterfall that's relaxing enjoyable and a great place just to explore and let your mind be at ease”
“Take your phone, there’s decent cell and gps service which you might want to help orient yourself with the creek and parking lot.”
“Easy to park with shade, currently some construction on the road before entrance but that’s minor.”
“Most of the trails have large stepping stones or tree roots protruding outward as you move upwards in elevation (this is a good thing).”
“I braved the trails with my jogger stroller and was able to navigate just fine other than the occasional rock, stump or branch that jostled us up.”
“There are trails choices so a person can walk on the flat besides a stream or tackle hills, though the total incline is less than feet.”
“The stream and waterfall were so serene and peaceful, exactly what I needed.”
“A lovely, but easy place to get lost as there’s no trail map or clear markers for direction.”
“Per other posts, it could really benefit from a site map, better marked trails, and at least a functioning water fountain.”
Plan your run at Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteatlantatrails.com
- Phone+1 404-546-6744
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–11 pm |
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