Find the top rated cross country skiing trails in Eatonton, whether you're looking for an easy short cross country skiing trail or a long cross country skiing trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a cross country skiing trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
The review below regarding trail closure was correct when written (Summer 2018) due to water line replacements throughout Arabia Mountain Park in DeKalb County.
In addition, on the Rockdale County side, there were closures related to dam improvements between the upper and lower lakes of Panola State Park.
However, the good news is the entire trail system (Arabia Mountain, South River, and Rockdale River trails) is now (Fall 2019) back to normal (trails opened again!).
The Rockdale River Trail is seamlessly connected with the Arabia Mountain Trail and a portion of the South River Trail, forming a network of ~25 miles of trails (I see various measures). This entire system is hard surface (mostly concrete with a few asphalt stretches). Even though significant portions of the trail are wooded/shaded, the trail itself is usually quite clear of debris (well maintained)... unless you are riding very soon after stormy or windy days).
When we ride near dawn or dusk, we often see wildlife along the trails (deer, rabbits, snakes, turkeys). The stretch of the Rockdale River trail between Union Church Road and S.R. 138 that runs above/along the South River and is probably my favorite portion of the entire connected system, as you listen for the water cascading over the rocks down below.
Rockdale County recently (~September 2019) constructed bathrooms at the trailheads located off Union Church Road (at Daniels Bridge Road intersection) and off S.R. 138 (at the East Fairview Road intersection)… the latter of which has full plumbing (running water + sewer).
As other comments on this site indicate, this trail system has lots of hills and curves (this is a roller coaster, not a "rails to trails" like the Silver Comet!). So, if you are a beginner, expect to cover a shorter distance than you normally would. And remember, along with uphills come downhills, so make sure your brakes are in working order!
This trail is nearly level compared to other trails that are reviewed. The Northern end at The Water Park is very well maintained and a great place for kids, birthday parties, and community functions. The Southern End is to be linked soon but at present that is a promise.
The Southern End extends from the Spring Street Bridge north a bit but certainly goes South from there to the Ocmulgee National Park. This lower part is new to me and truly a wonderful ride, hike, run or walk. It parallels the River and the Interstate 16 with many bridges over creeks and marshes. It is highly recommended.
From the Boat Ramp at the Spring Street Bride to the Great Temple Mound is about 3 miles. Many prefer to park at the Great Temple Mound and walk North as security is a bit better. But, don't get locked-in!
Wide, concrete trail very well maintained. But somewhat hilly. Has a seamless connection to the Arabia Mountain Trail. The Monastery of the Holy Spirit at the south end is a good place to start -- convenient parking. Also you can get a sandwich lunch (and tour if you like) at the Monastery.
Very nice trail. Wide, paved, multi use trail. It should be noted however, that about 6 miles from where the trail is picked up at the mall, it is dead ended. Construction has it closed and there is no real viable detour. I would avoid this trail for now until this is fixed, but evidently the construction has been going on for years.
This is a great trail that will be even better once completed into Mansfield.
Been coming here for the last 7mo and have never passed more than one or two people, each visit. As it is still undiscovered to the city, my dog gets the pleasure of running beside me on the bike without worry of heavy foot or bike traffic around. There is something to discover on every visit, if on foot (and have the curious nature about you)... including all of the seasonal edible fruits and 'weeds' that one finds in a "City in a Forest." A great section for exploring Atlanta as an abundant and vibrant marvel of the Piedmont.
Rode the 6 miles of concrete trail from Entrenchment Creek trailhead, over to and through Gresham Park, alongside Barack Obama School and past Sugar Creek golf course (safety netting in place), under 285 (cool) and over to the Georgia State University GPC campus. Excellent condition, very few users, lots of sites to see, parks, schools, golf courses, and it will eventually link to the eastern stretch of the trail that runs from MLK High School near Panola Shoals out to the Monastery of the Holy Spirit which is also a nice trail. Fun fact, in January 2018, a portion was renamed the Michelle Obama Trail in honor of her commitment to getting young folks moving. Sign in place at GSU campus end of trail.
After a pleasant day of biking and upon our return to parking at the Browns Mill Trailhead, we found that our vehicle back window had been smashed, along with another trail patron's car. Had to get repaired this week. Be careful! They need a security patrol and cameras at this site.
This trail is about a 3 hour drive for us so we decided to give it a try. Its paved and very nice but if you are not use to hills be prepared, there are a lot of them. If you don't like hills I would not recommend this trail. For those that said it wasn't enough of a work out they must be out of their minds. We were headed to the Rockdale River Trail and met a local man
riding the trail and he warned us about the "monster" hill that went straight down. We were very thankful for that information.
The Dudley Park end is good for families, but the Sandy Creek end is too much fun.
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