Nature in Atlanta: 5 Places to Enjoy the City in the Woods
Did you know that Atlanta is considered one of the largest but least densely populated cities in the country? Even as a metropolis full of urban life, here are only 3,500 people per square mile compared to cities like New York, where they live at least 28,000 people per square mile.
This has served as a unique opportunity to conserve much of its greenery, trees and natural spaces, and has given Atlanta its affectionate nickname "the city in the woods."
Nature in Atlanta is one of the pillars of tourism and the life of the society of this Georgia city. Approximately 48% of the Atlanta metropolitan area is covered by trees. From the moment you start the tour of the city, you can appreciate the number of tall and impressive trees that surround the skyline of its buildings, towers and skyscrapers.
Nature in Atlanta: the places you cannot miss
Much of Atlanta's greenery has been preserved thanks to residents passionate about the environment and local nonprofit organizations leading efforts to protect parks and plant even more trees. With more than 400 public parks in the area, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful nature that Atlanta has to offer.
Piedmont Park
In the center of the city, just one mile from Downtown, is Piedmont Park, perhaps the most recognized park when it comes to nature in Atlanta. Here many residents gather to enjoy outdoor activities and although it is an essential part of daily life, Piedmont Park is also the branch of Atlanta's most popular annual events such as the music festival "Music Midtown" or the pride festival. gay Atlanta Pride which attract thousands of visitors.
Located between the Midtown and Virginia Highland neighborhoods, Piedmont Park covers an area of 200 acres, with grassy areas to relax, trails for jogging, walking or biking, and even two dog parks. In spring and summer, every Saturday you can find the Green Market, a market with local vendors selling food, fruits and vegetables, handicrafts and much more.
Mason mill park
In the northeast of the city is Mason Mill Park. A beautiful park with a 120-acre forest and offering nine different trails, all short distances (less than a mile) and with various levels of difficulty.
This park is perfect to visit as a family and with young children as it offers paved trails, a recreational park with games, and also a dog park. In addition, it is an ideal place for watching wildlife such as birds, turtles, otters and if you visit in the spring or summer months, you may have the opportunity to see the park's cutest residents, wild rabbits.
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Just 15 miles west of downtown Atlanta is Sweetwater Creek State Park, a state park named for the long creek that runs through it. This park spans 2,500 acres and includes trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, and a 200-plus-acre lake.
Upon entering, a tree-lined path runs alongside the creek and leads to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company – an old textile mill that burned down during the Civil War. Beyond the ruins of this building begins a more challenging path with a steep climb that at the top offers panoramic views of the creek gorges.
George Parks Lake is popular for fishing and is a beautiful place to enjoy a picnic and even share some bread with the ducklings that frequent the area. Although swimming is not permitted, in the warmer months, the park offers rentals for fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, boogie boards, and pedal boats, making it a must-see among Atlanta nature attractions.
West Side Park
Atlanta's newest park – Westside Park, is also considered the largest green area within the city's perimeter and covers 280 acres. Westside Park is a short walk from Downtown to the west, offering five miles of paved trails for jogging, walking, skating or biking. One of its most popular areas is a large reservoir that preserves 2.4 billion drinking water.
Plus, TV fans may recognize it from shows like "The Walking Dead" and "Stranger Things" as the area previously provided frequent filming locations.
Stone Mountain Park
Covering 3,200 acres, Stone Mountain Park is Georgia's most-visited attraction and one of Atlanta's most popular nature spots, and for good reason. The park offers several activities to enjoy with family or friends including festivals in all seasons of the year, history tours, a museum, 4D movie theater, and its famous cable car. Although the most popular activity is climbing to the top of the stone mountain, you will also find plenty of outdoor recreation options.
For those who love fishing, Stone Mountain Lake offers the opportunity to catch five different species of fish. If you prefer to exercise with a bit of hiking, the park has 15 miles of trails to hike, at varying degrees of difficulty.
