Heritage Park Trail:
Georgia
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Description:
The Heritage Park Trail links two paths at the confluence of the Oostanaula and Etowah rivers, where these two waterways meet to form the Coosa River. Paved promenades line both sides of the Oostanaula, and a railroad trestle overlooking the confluence has been converted into a pedestrian bridge. It forms the bottom curve of this U-shaped trail.

Start your trek by heading down to Unity Point, east of the pedestrian bridge, for views of the layered pathways and gardens and the rivers below. From the west side of the bridge the trail winds about 2 miles along the Oostanaula. While it ends amid a rather dull residential district, the return trip offers beautiful views of the tree-lined river and historic brick buildings in downtown Rome.

Sail past your starting point and skirt the east bank of the Oostanaula for even more trailside gems. This route saunters along the river, offering scenic lookouts and several diversions. You'll wander through wooded stretches and pleasant parks and pass baseball fields, volleyball courts, playgrounds, a boat dock and a fishing area.

Just north of Ridge Ferry Park, a spur trail leads to the Chieftains Museum, a National Historic Landmark that highlights the culture and heritage of the Cherokee Indians. Follow the spur to Riverside Parkway; the museum is on a corner across the street.

The onward trail emerges at State Mutual Stadium. If your timing is good, you might be able to catch nine innings with the Rome Braves, a minor league affiliate of the Atlanta Braves.

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Parking & Trail Access:
Rome is in northwest Georgia, west of I-75. To reach Heritage Park, take GA 20 to Second Avenue; head south and turn right on Broad Street. You'll find parking one block down on the right.

The State Mutual Stadium, another trailhead, is at the intersection of Veterans Memorial Highway and Riverside Parkway. Parking is available in many other places throughout town; refer to the trail map for more locations.

Contact:
Rome-Floyd Parks & Recreation Authority
300 West Third Street
Rome, GA 30165
(706) 291-0766

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Reviews: [1 trail ratings]
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Amazing Ride
By GaReb in May, 2011
This was one of the best trails we have ever ridden. The trail was pristine and the different types of scenery changed so often it made for a very enjoyable ride. We got to experience the river and very neat pedestrian bridges. It also winds thru some very scenic shady woodland settings. The memorial park and huge water fountain being enjoyed by many people on a hot muggy day. The tribute statue to policemen and military who have given the ultimate sacrifice was one of the highlights of the trip for me. Then it takes you into a very nice park that was very nice and well maintained. I especially liked the workout stations just off the trail in the park. There is a "tree house" that the park staff have built that the trail runs right under. If this wasn't enough the trail ended at the Rome Braves Stadium. Then the fun of seeing it all again from the opposite direction on the return trip. We made the 10 mile round trip in a little over an hour. It is well worth the visit and is designed for any age and any skill level. We will definitely be back.
Beatiful Ride
By mguthas in October, 2010
We rode the trail for the first time yesterday, and quite honestly, were puzzled about where to go about 50% of the time. At one point, the trail just ended, and in a sketchy part of town, to boot. If Rome went to the expense to build this great trail, why didn't they spend the little extra to install directional signs? We have cycled many miles in Santa Rosa Beach, FL, and on the Silver Comet trail, and the signage is excellent. Once we figured it out, we really enjoyed the ride. Absolutely beautiful scenery abounds, probably one of the most beautiful rides to be found. Not a huge challenge, but a terrific way to spend a beautiful afternoon on a maginificent autumn day. Enjoy!
Look for yellow markers
By Orlando in June, 2006
The yellow markers mark the actual bike trail. Once the markers are discovered it is easy to get on the bike trail. We got pulled over by the County police since we were riding on a bike/hiking restricted road. The police directed us onto the trail. Nice bike trail and route.
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