Sandy Springs, GA (September 19, 2018) – The trees that line Georgia’s parks, streams and trails will soon be transformed from emerald green to sunset orange and red with yellow hues, making for a wonderful time to explore the great outdoors. Georgia residents and visitors are lucky to have a plethora of outdoor options for enjoying the area’s beauty. While there are many well-known spots where visitors and locals alike flock each year, there are a few hidden gems spread throughout Sandy Springs where leaf peepers can revel in being one of the few to uncover beautiful fall colors right in Atlanta’s backyard. Sandy Springs is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring 950 acres of parks and natural areas, including three Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) trail units, waiting to be explored by fall fanatics.
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 Chattahoochee River, leading hikers and leaf peepers past several high overlooks, the ruins of an old home site and through a bamboo forest to a view of the forested Palisades cliffs unique to Sandy Springs.
Island Ford
Another one of Sandy Springs’ three Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area units, Island Ford, hosts three miles of trails covered in fall foliage, fields of wildflowers, large cave-like rock outcrops and local wildlife. Hidden at the end of a stretch of tree-lined winding roads at the northernmost point of the city, Island Ford is an uncrowded gem of woodland beauty. It’s also home to the National Park Service Headquarters and Visitor Center. Located in the historic Hewlett Lodge, park guests can stop in during hours of operation to chat with a park ranger and pick up trail maps and information on fly fishing.
John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve
At this 30-acre tree, plant and wildlife sanctuary, 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. Leashed furry friends are welcome in this natural oasis located in the heart of Sandy Springs.
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 cottage is available for public rentals daily. Community activities, from photography classes to master gardener lectures, are offered throughout the year.
Morgan Falls
Catch a breathtaking sunset amongst the changing fall leaves at Morgan Falls Overlook Park. This 30-acre riverside park includes picnic pavilions, a boat dock, a hiking trail, bench swings and plenty of scenic views perfect for leaf peeping.
Powers Island
Another of Sandy Springs’ three Chattahoochee National Recreation Area units, Powers Island offers serene trail loops through a striking riverside forest and stunning views of the Chattahoochee River and the changing fall scenery.
After an adventure-filled day exploring the outdoors, discover one of the more than 100 unique and independently owned restaurants offering a broad range of dining options. Locals and visitors may continue to enjoy the cooler fall temperatures and scenic views, as many of Sandy Springs’ restaurants also offer patio dining and live outdoor music.
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About Sandy Springs
Bordered by Atlanta to the south and the Chattahoochee River to the north, Sandy Springs is a modern Southern city with its own unique identity as Georgia’s sixth largest city. Incorporated in 2005, Sandy Springs combines the best of urban and rural environments with a thriving culinary scene of 100+ unique and locally owned restaurants, more than 950 acres of parks and natural areas, and 22 miles of Chattahoochee River shoreline. Artisans and independent store owners have made Sandy Springs their home, and Atlanta’s best shopping is just minutes away. Throughout the year, local events like festivals and holiday markets highlight and celebrate the up-and-coming community. Sandy Springs makes for a relaxing getaway with more than 2,800 hotel rooms, all with easy access to several major highways and interstates as well as the MARTA rail.
Visit Sandy Springs is the Destination Marketing Organization for the city of Sandy Springs, Georgia, acting as the guide to all that the Metro-Atlanta city has to offer. For more information, please visit www.VisitSandySprings.org.
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