Find the top rated dog walking trails in Forest Park, whether you're looking for an easy short dog walking trail or a long dog walking trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a dog walking trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
I absolutely love it! I highly recommend you try it at least once. It’s an urban concrete trail. Very safe. Be aware that there will be plenty of people. Be courteous and patient. Some times I get in a serious workout and other times like to stroll (solo & with friends). There are plenty of places to stop eat or drink, take pictures or use bathrooms.
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!).
Overall this trail is best for connections. The north side is a great bike/walk trail where you can freely bike/walk at least a few feet removed from the street and it’s aesthetically nice even for a trail that runs between an interstate and a service road. As a connection to the trails along the Chattahoochee it’s excellent but wouldnt really stand on its own other than being a nice side street trail. The south is a glorified sidewalk that connects the Bob Callan to Akers Mill shopping center, Cumberland Mall, etc.
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!
My wife and I did this simple loop around the city at an avg of 11mph. One of the most pleasant enjoyable rides Ive ever had. We have Trek ebikes but also have regular bikes. We rode ebikes this time. Shouldnt be any issue for anyone. Awesome flow through many different types of areas.
The wooded trails are absolutely beautiful but be careful if walking along the Chattahoochee River. Copperhead Snakes and Raccoons have been spotted.
Nice, short walk through the woods and along the river. Perfect for a quick and quiet walk with the dog.
Good for walking and leisure riding, cruddy for any kind of actual workout.
Don't miss this trail. I use it often both on bicycle and walking with dogs. Beautiful and clean!
Yes sometimes there are slippery spots on the boardwalk sections but don't all nice trails have this at some point. My suggestion is to keep your eyes open.
We bought our house back in 2008, because of this trail. Well that’s partially true¿¿ It’s been great to see all the growth and extensions on this trail. Back in 2008 the trail only went as far as the stone bridge before the railroad tracks. Now it’s a full blown trail that is simply beautiful! They did an outstanding job on this trail. They’ll even left the ruins of a water treatment village there! It’s got hiking trails that veer off and take you into the woods. It’s a treasure for this neighborhood!
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