Where To Uncover The Best Fall Foliage In Atlanta's Backyard

This fall, the trees that line Sandy Springs’ parks, streams, and trails will transform from emerald green to sunset orange, fiery red and golden yellow, making it a wonderful time to explore the great outdoors.

Residents and visitors are lucky to have a plethora of outdoor options to take in the metro area’s beauty. While there are many well-known spots where visitors and locals alike flock each year for leaf peeping, there are a few hidden gems spread throughout Sandy Springs.

East Palisades
Island Ford Park
John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve
Lost Corner Preserve
Morgan Falls Overlook Park
Powers Island
Patio Dining

Foliage fanatics can revel in being one of the lucky few to uncover beautiful fall colors right in Atlanta’s back yard. Sandy Springs is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring hundreds of acres of parkland and three Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) trail units waiting to be explored.

East Palisades

Nestled on the lesser-frequented eastern banks of the Chattahoochee River, visitors will find the East Palisades Trail, one of Sandy Springs’ three Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area trail units. The 3.4-mile trail is one of the most scenic stretches of the river, leading hikers and leaf peepers past several high overlooks, the ruins of an old home site, and through to a view of the forested Palisades cliffs that are unique to Sandy Springs.

Photos of the East Palisades

Island Ford Park

Hidden at the end of a stretch of tree-lined winding road at the northernmost point of the city sits Island Ford Park, another of the three Sandy Springs Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area units. Despite being one of the first pieces of land purchased for the CRNRA, Island Ford has remained one of Atlanta’s best kept secrets. This has allowed it to remain an uncrowded gem of woodland beauty. Island Ford is home to the National Park Service headquarters located in the historic Hewlett Lodge. The park includes three miles of trails covered in fall foliage, fields of wildflowers, large cave-like rock outcrops, and tons of local wildlife.

Island Ford Leaves

John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve

Fall fanatics will be delighted to uncover fern-lined banks, flowing springs, and canopies of trees blanketed with changing leaves in a variety of fall colors at this 30-acre sanctuary. Leashed, furry friends are welcome in this natural oasis located in the heart of Sandy Springs. Big Trees is a recognized old-growth forest, which means it is home to a protected environment that was preserved through tireless conservation efforts. In short, it's a magical place to leaf peep!

Big Trees Leaves

Lost Corner Preserve

Located on 24-acres of beautiful woodlands and nature trails, Lost Corner Preserve is a hidden gem for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The park features a community garden, greenhouse, apiary, walking trails, and a beautifully renovated historic cottage. The century-old bungalow-style house is available for public rentals daily. Community activities, from photography classes to master gardener lectures, are offered throughout the year.

Lost Corner Leaves

Morgan Falls Overlook Park

Catch a breathtaking sunset amongst the changing fall leaves at Morgan Falls Overlook Park. This riverside park includes picnic pavilions, a boat dock, a hiking trail, bench swings, an overlook of Bull Sluice Lake, and plenty of scenic views perfect for leaf peeping.

Morgan Falls Leaves

Powers Island

Another of Sandy Springs’ three Chattahoochee National Recreation Area units, Powers Island offers serene trail loops through a riverside forest and stunning views of the changing fall scenery along the Chattahoochee River.

Powers Island Leaves

Patio Dining

After an adventure-filled day exploring the outdoors, discover one of the more than 100 unique and independently-owned restaurants in the area, many with outdoor dining for enjoying the cooler fall temperatures. Ray’s on the River, one of the area’s most beloved restaurants, offers guests views of colorful fall foliage on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Mojave has one of the liveliest outdoor patios in Sandy Springs, with live music on Thursday and Friday nights to entertain while guests enjoy hand-crafted cocktails paired with Latin American dishes.

Patio Dining

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