Celebrate National Trails Day: The Best Hiking Trails in Sandy Springs, Georgia

Morgan Falls Overlook Park is one of Sandy Springs’ most iconic and beloved outdoor destinations, popular with visitors and locals alike. In fact, it was recently crowned the winner of our "Sandy Springs Madness" tournament, where locals voted for their favorite spot from a bracket of 16 standout locations across the city. Situated along the Chattahoochee River, the park features a ⅔-mile wooded hiking trail and the paved Springway Trail.

There are plenty of other activities you can pair with your hike as well! Visitors can launch a kayak or paddleboard from the floating dock, with rentals available on-site from Murphs Surf Paddle Shack. The open greenspace is ideal for a picnic, and the playground is a hit with kids. Additional amenities like porch swings, a dog park, a fire pit, and restrooms make it easy to spend a full day relaxing and exploring the park.

• Trail Length: 0.7 miles in the park, 1.88 miles on the Springway Trail

• Trail Type: Park trail: Easy loop, slightly uphill and unpaved. Springway Boardwalk: Mostly flat, with raised wooden paths and some paved sections. 

• Good to Know: The park is divided into an upper and lower section. The upper section includes the wooded hiking trail, playground, kayak launch, and picnic spaces, while the lower section features the Springway boardwalk, dog park, and a great view of a hydroelectric dam. Both areas have their own dedicated parking lots for easy access.

• Address: 200 Morgan Falls Road, Sandy Springs, GA 30350

The East Palisades Trail offers some of the most scenic and rewarding hikes in Metro Atlanta. Nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, this trail system combines riverside views, a tranquil bamboo forest, and forested bluffs into one unforgettable outdoor experience. Find the full trail map HERE.

While parts of the trail can be moderately challenging, it’s accessible enough for beginner hikers looking for an adventure. There are two main trailheads: Whitewater Creek and Indian Trail. The Whitewater Creek entrance (marked as EP 1 on the trail map) is considered the primary access point and offers a full range of trail options. If you're short on time or want to head straight to the highlights, start at the Indian Trail entrance—it's the quickest way to reach the scenic river overlook and the iconic bamboo grove.

• Trail Length: ~3.4 miles

• Trail Type: Moderately challenging loop with river views

• Why Visit: Located in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, this trail feels worlds away from the city. Highlights include a hidden bamboo grove, bluff-top views, and remnants of a historic mill.

• Tip: The deck overlooking the Chattahoochee River is located between EP 10 and EP 14 on the trail map, and the Bamboo Forest is located at EP 26.

• Address: Whitewater Creek Entrance - 4058 Whitewater Creek Rd NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30327 / Indian Trail Entrance - 1425 Indian Trail Northwest, Sandy Springs, GA 30339

Big Trees Forest Preserve is a 30-acre old-growth forest in Sandy Springs, offering nearly a mile of peaceful trails through a breathtaking canopy. This urban sanctuary invites visitors to explore a scenic collection of gently sloping, interconnected trails. Along the way, you’ll encounter fern-lined creeks, native azaleas, towering trees, and even remnants of early 20th-century history—like the abandoned Bull Sluice railroad bed and the old Roswell wagon road.

Originally preserved through a partnership between the City of Sandy Springs, Fulton County, the State of Georgia, Southeast Land Preservation Trust, and local citizens, the land was designated the John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve. Today, it is protected by a conservation easement and thoughtfully maintained as a space for nature appreciation, passive recreation, and forest education.

• Trail Length: ~0.75 miles

• Trail Type: Easy loop with educational signage

• Why Visit: This quiet oasis usually isn't too crowded, and is a great way to get in touch with nature without going to far from the city.

• Perfect For: Birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature.

Another trail that runs along the Chattahoochee River, Powers Island offers one of the most peaceful hiking experiences in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Tucked just across the river from the busier Interstate North trails, this lesser-known spot features a scenic 2.5-mile loop that follows the riverbank, climbs into dense forest, and traces a quiet ridge. Along the way, hikers can enjoy sweeping views of the Chattahoochee and a true sense of escape just minutes from the city.

In addition to its natural beauty, Powers Island is home to a watercraft launch and the Nantahala Outdoor Center’s Chattahoochee outpost, making it a great starting point for both hiking and paddling adventures. 

• Trail Length: ~2.5 miles

• Trail Type: Somewhat rugged terrain once you enter the forested section

• Why Visit: Nestled within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, Powers Island offers a less crowded option for hiking and water recreation.

• Wildlife Tip: Visit in the morning for the best chance to spot herons, turtles, and other river wildlife.

• Address: 5450 Interstate North Parkway, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

The Abernathy Greenway offers two connected parks that combine walkable trails, greenspace, and family-friendly features in the heart of Sandy Springs.

Abernathy Greenway Park North is a lively, art-filled space featuring a 0.5-mile paved trail perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. Its standout feature is the Playable Art Park— with a collection of climbable structures and sculptures that double as public art. Kids love it, and it’s become a local favorite for families. The park also offers open greenspace for games and picnics, shaded seating, and restrooms.

Abernathy Greenway Park South provides a quieter setting with a 0.5-mile slate chip trail, landscaping, benches, and pet-friendly amenities. It’s ideal for dog walks, quick breaks, or a peaceful walk near the city center.

• Trail Length: 0.5 miles at each park

• Trail Type: Paved at North Park; slate chip at South Park

• Why Visit: These two connected parks offer something for everyone—from interactive art and play areas to quiet, pet-friendly walking paths—all just minutes from central Sandy Springs.

• Good to Know: The North Park is great for kids and quick outings; the South Trail offers a more relaxed, wooded feel.

• Address: Abernathy Greenway North Park – 70 Abernathy Road NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 / Abernathy Greenway South Park – 75 Abernathy Road NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

This National Trails Day, take a moment to explore the beautiful outdoor spaces that make our city such a special place. Whether you’re paddling the Chattahoochee, walking a shaded boardwalk, or hiking through a bamboo forest, you’ll find the perfect way to enjoy nature right here in Sandy Springs.