Good mix of flat land and some elevation passing through the Chastain neighborhood, houses and the inner nature walk. Street Parking is convenient. Less nature exposure but well located in the city.

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!

Nice, short walk through the woods and along the river. Perfect for a quick and quiet walk with the dog.

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!

Great ride, great day. I’ll be back ¿¿¿

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!