TRAILS IN ATHENS, GA

Nature trails and serene walking paths

From short nature trails with the family to longer day hikes, Athens is sure to have a trail marker with your name on it! More than ever, families and individuals are seeking outdoor activities, and you'll find plenty of new trails to explore in Athens, Georgia. Athens-Clarke Leisure Services maintains many trails and open spaces such as Ben Burton Park (header image), and there are also wonderful trails at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and Oconee Forest Park.

What Are The Best Hiking Trails in Athens, GA?

• North Oconee River Greenway: 8 miles of paved, multi-use trail that stretches along the North Oconee River and connects several parks and scenic areas.
• Firefly Trail: a planned 39-mile rail-trail from Athens to Union Point in Northeast Georgia, ideal for biking and long-distance walking and running.
• Sandy Creek Nature Center Trails: Over 14 miles of trails with lake views and a mix of easy to moderate terrains.
• State Botanical Garden of Georgia at UGA: 323 acres of botanical gardens with 5 miles of nature trails, offering impressive views of the gardens, forest, and river.
• Memorial Park and Bear Hollow Zoo: Family friendly, a centrally located park with short, easy walking trails around a pond. Bear Hollow Zoo is free and offers a short, accessible walking path with Georgia-native wildlife exhibits.

Are dogs allowed on the trails in Athens, GA?

Yes, most trails in Athens, GA, are dog-friendly (leash required).

What are the Athens, GA, trail hours?

According to Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, all trails are open from Sunrise to Sunset.

What are the best times to go on the Athens, GA, trails?

Especially during the warmer months, the best times to go on the Athens, GA, trails are in the mornings and evenings to avoid the heat.

Are the trails in Athens, GA, bike friendly?

According to Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, bicycle use is prohibited on all natural surface trails except the mountain bike trails at Walker Park and the small hillside natural surface trail at Dudley Park connecting the lower parking lot with the Firefly Trail.

What are the best ADA accessible trails in Athens, GA?

• North Oconee River Greenway: Its paved path makes its fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
• Sandy Creek Nature Center: The Box Turtle Loop and Boardwalk is a walker- and wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that enters woodlands and continues to a part of the Oconee River.
• Firefly Trail: It is paved and accessible, connecting to other trails.   

Athens-Clarke County Unified Government offers a list of walking paths and more information about ADA accessible trails in Athens, GA.

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