If you’re an avid runner in Georgia, we’ve got some good news for you. The state of Georgia is home to some of the best running trails in the country. From stunning lakeside paths to challenging mountain trails, Georgia has a variety of options for runners of all skill levels.
In this article, we’ll take a look at Georgia’s best running trails, including some of our favorite jogging paths.
Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park is located just outside of Atlanta and is one of the state’s most popular outdoor attractions. The park boasts more than 15 miles of hiking and running trails, including a challenging 5-mile loop that takes runners to the top of the famous Stone Mountain.
For a more leisurely run, the 3-mile Lake Loop around Stone Mountain Lake is a peaceful option. The trail is flat and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is another popular destination for runners in Georgia. The park spans 48 miles along the Chattahoochee River and offers a variety of running trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
For a longer run, the 7-mile Cochran Shoals Trail is a great option. The trail runs along the river and offers beautiful views of the water and the surrounding park. For a shorter run, the 3-mile Paces Mill Trail provides a scenic route along the river and through the woods.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Atlanta. The park offers more than 20 miles of hiking and running trails, including a 5.6-mile loop to the top of Kennesaw Mountain.
The trail to the summit can be challenging, but the views from the top are worth it. On a clear day, you can see all the way to downtown Atlanta. For a less strenuous run, the 2.8-mile Cheatham Hill Trail is a scenic option that passes through historic Civil War battlegrounds.
Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is a popular destination for runners in the heart of Atlanta. The park offers more than 5 miles of running trails, including a 2-mile loop around the lake.
The park’s paved paths are perfect for runners who prefer a flat, easy route. The park also hosts a variety of running events throughout the year, including the annual Atlanta Pride Run and the Atlanta Half Marathon.
Red Top Mountain State Park
Red Top Mountain State Park is located on the shores of Lake Allatoona and offers more than 15 miles of hiking and running trails. The park’s 4-mile Iron Hill Trail is a challenging route that takes runners to the top of Iron Hill.
The trail can be steep in some places, but the views from the top are spectacular. For a less demanding run, the 2-mile Lakeside Trail offers a scenic route along the lake.
Callaway Gardens
Callaway Gardens is a beautiful resort located in Pine Mountain, Georgia. The resort offers more than 10 miles of running and hiking trails, including a 5-mile loop around the lake.
The trails at Callaway Gardens are well-maintained and provide beautiful views of the resort’s gardens and lakes. For a shorter run, the 2-mile Fitness Trail offers a challenging route with fitness stations along the way.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, Georgia has plenty of options for outdoor exercise. From challenging mountain trails to peaceful lakeside paths, there’s something for everyone in Georgia’s best running trails.
So grab your sneakers, hit the trails, and enjoy all that Georgia has to offer.