By billbrockman in December, 2011
This trail in NW Atlanta is unlikely to be a "destination trail" for many folks, being less than two miles long and not connected with any other trails as of yet. There is no designated parking and none is really needed. Folks coming by auto can easily park on Adams Dr. if necessary.
However, for those in the neighborhood it is a very welcome addition. The trail was born from an abandoned spur line from the Inman Rail Yard that was formerly used for delivery of chlorine tankers to the R. M. Clayton water treatment plant on the Chattahoochee River. This line was paved from Marietta Rd., NW to Marietta Blvd., NW, about one mile. Later, a spur to the spur line was run through some nice mature woods to Adams Dr. via one of the PATH Foundation's first boardwalks. Original plans for a traditional paved trail met with some neighborhood resistance and in a fine example of win/win the neighborhood and PATH together raised the additional funds for the innovative and scenic boardwalk and wooden bridge across Whetstone Creek. No trees were lost in this construction which also protects the stream banks.
The trail continues on the other side of Adams Dr through a Watershed Management field to Bolton Rd., NW where a traffic signal provides a safe crossing. The final short segment runs beside the water treatment plant (not that scenic) to a end point near the dead end of Marietta Rd.
Plans to extend the trail and connect with other trails including the Silver Comet hopefully lie in the future. The Moores Mill Rd. bike route is nearby for those comfortable with riding on city streets.