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Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 800 Google reviews · Running trail in Sandy Springs, Georgia · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area'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.
Large, forested park popular for river rafting, trout fishing & its variety of hiking/biking trails.
What runners say about Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
“A great park for trails and enjoy the nature, it is quieter with varieties of singing birds along the way and beautiful tiny flowers to spot.”
“Overall I recommend if your looking for a leisurely stroll in a serene setting near the city.”
Living literally right across the street from this park affords me the pleasure of visiting this place at least 5 times a week... for the last 20 years. It's nature. Today on my walk, a fawn walked out of the woods across the path and settled merely 10 ft away from me.. we stared at each other as I walked by..
A beautiful park to explore. My husband and I were in the Atlanta area and decided to visit for a hike. What a lovely time we had walking in the forest and sitting beside the river. The visitor center was very clean and had some great souvenirs.
Beautiful waterfall (2!) hike with many trail lengths and options. Incline at the beginning of trail from parking area is as steep as it gets. Stairs to the covered bridge-a must see. Well blazed and many maps at waypoints. Restrooms if you cross covered bridge, go right, in the 2nd building on the right.
Wild gem in a surprise location... with history. So close to modern Atlanta, but close your eyes and go back 200 years. Big, strong river, towering oaks, poplars, and pines. Fine trail with easy grade, popular for walkers, runners, and leashed doggies. I hear that bug spray is smart in summer, but autumn was a breeze.
Trail conditions & character
“In the winter time it serves as a tranquil low key relaxation spot where you can listen to the waterfall and feel all your problems melt away.”
“Overall I recommend if your looking for a leisurely stroll in a serene setting near the city.”
“National parks pass or a small fee gets you a parking place are the trailhead.”
“Fine trail with easy grade, popular for walkers, runners, and leashed doggies.”
“Incline at the beginning of trail from parking area is as steep as it gets.”
“Restrooms if you cross covered bridge, go right, in the 2nd building on the right.”
Plan your run at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitenps.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Sandy Springs
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Island Ford Unit, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,351 reviews
Peaceful riverside park offering a range of trails plus rafting, fishing & other activities.
Roswell Underpass Park
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Petite riverside park with walking paths and views for jogs and workouts, plus fishing.
Don White Memorial Park
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Waterfront space known for serene spots and outdoor activities like kayaking, grilling and swimming, plus picnic areas.
Wildcat Park
4.3 ★★★★☆ 9 reviews