Georgia is always on my mind when it comes to planning an adventurous trip with plenty of time spent outdoors. As you read about the best hikes and activities in the state, you may come across affiliate links that help me earn a commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase. I only share products I love and would use myself.
When most people think of Georgia, they think of the big city life in Atlanta. But there’s so much more to this state than just the city!
If you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure, but don’t know where to start, then you need to check out our guide to the best outdoor locations in Georgia.
We’ve got everything from hiking trails and camping spots to beautiful beaches and lakes. So no matter what kind of outdoorsy activity you’re into, we’ve got you covered.
What is the best outdoor activity in Georgia?
It depends on what you prefer. Do you like the mountains, beach, rivers, or wildlife?
When someone asks what the best outdoor activity in Georgia is, it’s tough because there are so many great outdoor activities to choose from in this state. In a state covered by forest, and topped by mountains, hiking, biking and camping are some of the best activities in Georgia, and you will find a lot of variety from waterfalls, and lakes to pine forests.
The Appalachian Mountains offer some of the best hiking trails in the country, and there are also plenty of great camping spots throughout the state. So if you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure, then the Appalachian Mountains are definitely a place you need to check out. But that’s not all Georgia has to offer! The coastline is also home to some beautiful beaches, and there are plenty of lakes and rivers scattered throughout the state.
Things to do Outdoors in and around Atlanta
If you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure, but don’t want to travel too far from the city, then there are plenty of things to do outdoors in and around Atlanta. The Chattahoochee River offers some great hiking and biking trails, and there are also plenty of great parks in the area.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, then you can check out Stone Mountain Park. This park offers everything from hiking and biking trails to a ropes course and a zipline. So if you’re looking for a day full of outdoor fun, then Stone Mountain Park is a great place that combines family fun with hiking, walking and exploring.
Here are a few of our favorite places in and around Atlanta, Georgia.
Centennial Olympic Park
Centennial Olympic Park is a 21-acre park located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. The park was built as part of the 1996 Summer Olympics, and it features a large lake, a playground, and several restaurants and shops. The park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and there are always plenty of things to do. You can go for a walk or jog around the lake, visit the playground, or enjoy a meal or cup of coffee at one of the restaurants or cafes.
The park is also home to several events and festivals throughout the year, so be sure to check out the calendar and see what’s happening during your visit. Take an audio walking tour and learn about the park’s history. Or spend the day relaxing on the grass and taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling city of Atlanta.
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Sweetwater Creek State Park is a beautiful park located just minutes from downtown Atlanta. The park offers several great hiking and biking trails and picnic areas. Follow the red trail to get close to the river and stop to view the ruins of the New Manchester Paper Company, on both the white or red trail, which served as a filming location for one of the HUnger Games movies as well. The park is also home to the Sweetwater Creek Museum, which tells the story of the Civil War in Georgia. You can take a guided tour of the museum or explore it independently. Also, check out the park’s nature center, which exhibits the park’s wildlife and ecology. Sweetwater Creek State Park is a great place to spend a day outdoors with the family, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
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Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a beautiful park along the Chattahoochee River. The park offers several great trails for hiking and biking and several picnic areas, and a playground.
The park is also home to the Chattahoochee Nature Center, which features exhibits on the park’s wildlife and ecology. You can also take a guided river canoe trip on the Chattahoochee River.
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Indian Creek Trailhead and the Bamboo Forest
If canoeing is not your thing, located along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, The Indian Creek Trailhead is a great place to go for a walk, jog, or bike ride. The trail meanders along the Chattahoochee river and even a hidden bamboo forest, making it hard to believe that you are just outside of Atlanta.
Atlanta beltline
The Atlanta beltline is a 22-mile loop of trails, parks, and transit that surrounds the city of Atlanta. The beltline is a great place to go for a walk, jog, or bike ride, and it’s also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
You can access the beltline from several different locations, and the trails offer various experiences. You can find everything from quiet, peaceful nature trails to busy streets with restaurants and shops. Be sure to check out the beltline’s map and see which trails interest you the most. There’s something for everyone on the Atlanta beltline.
Arabia Mountain National Historic Park
Arabia Mountain National Historic Park is located just 20 minutes from Atlanta. The park offers several great hiking and biking trails.
Check out the Arabia Mountain Path, a 30-mile trail that takes you past historic landmarks and stunning views. You can access the trail from 15 different points, which gives you lots of opportunities to explore different sections of the trail anytime you visit.
Arabia Mountain National Park is a must-visit. The Arabia Mountain Heritage Area tells the story of the area’s history and culture. You can explore the heritage area on your own or take a guided tour. If you’re looking for a city break combined with history, then this is the place to go.
Best Hikes in the State of Georgia
There are so many great hikes in the state of Georgia it’s hard to pick just a few. But, here are 5 of our favorites:
The Appalachian Trail
This is a 2,000-mile trail that stretches from Maine to Georgia. The Appalachian Trail offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping. You can hike a section of the Appalachian Trail in North Georgia from Woody Gap to Gooch Gap. The hike is approximately 8.2 miles, and you can check it out here.
Amicalola Falls
Amicalola Falls is Georgia’s Tallest waterfall, tumbling more than 720 feet. The falls are located in the Chattahoochee National Forest and offer several hiking trails. Amicalola is a Cherokee word that means tumbling waters. The hike to the falls is a 2.2-mile loop trail that will take you from the parking lop right to the top. The views along the trail are absolutely stunning. For those looking to spend more time in the park you can stay at the lodge, or hike to the Len Foote hikers lodge and hike some of the Appalachian Trail.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge State Park is a beautiful 2,000-acre park located in northern Georgia. The park is most famous for its Tallulah Gorge, which is 2-miles long and 1000 feet deep. You can hike along the rim of the gorge or take a hike down to the bottom. You will see several waterfalls on your walk through the park, those capable of stairs can walk to the gorge floor as well, by winding their way down a series of steps before passing over a suspension bridge over the river. There are also several excellent whitewater rafting opportunities on the Tallulah River. You can see more about the hike here.
Cloudland Canyon
Head north to Cloudland Canyon, where you can spend the weekend in a yurt surrounded by hiking, waterfalls, and incredible views. Cloudland Canyon is a 2,000-acre state park located in North Georgia, by far one of the best state parks in Georgia. The West Rim Trail is an excellent option for exploring Cloudland State Park. Along the way, you will find caves, waterfalls, and incredible vistas from one of several overlooks, make sure you walk down the steps to see both Hemlock Falls and Cherokee Falls. This park is also right near the border of Chattanooga, making for a great long weekend hiking, dining and exploring the area.
Vogel State Park and Blood Mountain
Vogel State Park is a beautiful park located in the north Georgia Mountains. The park offers several great hiking and biking trails and several picnic areas.cOne of the most popular trails at Vogel State Park is a 4.2-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail, which takes you to the summit of Blood Mountain. The hike can be strenuous, but the views are well worth it.
Stay in a wine barrel cabin in Unicoi State Park.
If you’re looking for a unique lodging experience, consider staying in a wine barrel cabin at Unicoi State Park. Ok. It’s not exactly a wine barrel, but we will call it that. Located in Helen, GA, a visit to Unicoi State Park will make you feel like you just flew to the mountains in Europe.
The barrel cabins are anywhere from 1 to 2 bedrooms meaning there are options whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with the family. They are an excellent option for those looking for a different outdoor experience.
The Best Georgia Outdoor Adventures
The state of Georgia is filled with beautiful outdoor locations that are perfect for various outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a great hike, some whitewater rafting, or just to spend the weekend in the park, Georgia has something for everyone.
So are you ready to get outside and enjoy everything that Georgia has to offer? We put together a few videos of our favorite outdoor adventures in Georgia, and you can see them here.
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