Best Atlanta Bike Routes and Trails

Atlanta Bicycle Routes and Trails

Mapping the Best Atlanta Area Bike Routes

You may not have thought that it was possible to live in a big city and also get to enjoy bicycling and the beautiful scenery that comes with it. Well in Atlanta, you can have the best of both worlds. There are dozens of great options for biking within Atlanta and other surrounding areas.

The map below gives you 15 of our favorite bike routes/trails. Click on the trail to learn more about the distance, location, and terrain. Below the map is additional information about a few fantastic bars, restaurants, and shops to hit as you ride.

Attractions Along Atlanta Area Bike Routes

After a nice bike ride, whether it took hours or was just one mile, it’s always great to chow down on some incredible food or kick back and relax with a beer. Not only have we compiled a list of some of the best bike paths within the greater Atlanta area, but also some awesome attractions that you can find along the way or nearby. Check them out below.

Chastain Park Trail

The Chastain Park Trail is a paved double-loop trail around the North Fulton Golf Course and Chastain Park that is marked as two 5k courses and a separate 3k course. This casual, multi-use trail offers a social atmosphere that is great for the whole family. Parking lots are available. You’ll pass by the Chastain Arts Center and Gallery, golf course, playground, tennis center, and horse park.

South Peachtree Creek Trail

The South Peachtree Creek Trail is a 1.1-mile trail that has both paved and boardwalk sections. This casual, multi-use trail runs from Mason Mill Park at Mason Mill Road and McConnell Drive and Medlock Park at Scott Circle, giving you beautiful views of Mason Mill Park and Medlock Park.

Arabia Mountain

The Arabia Mountain Path runs from the mall at Stonecrest into Panola Mountain State Park and beyond. This 33-mile paved route is rolling and hilly, with parking at multiple access points. You will pass by rushing streams, fields of flowers, farmland, and giant rock outcroppings, making this route both beautiful and exciting.

Southtowne Trail

The Southtowne Trail goes from the Brown’s Mill Recreation Center on Cleveland Avenue to Southbend Park on Lakewood Avenue. It is a paved 1.5-miles that is kid-friendly as well as casual, multi-use. Parking is available on Brown’s Mill Road. This trail is full of beautiful views like the Swann Nature Preserve and Old Lakewood Fairgrounds, which is now the EUE Screen Gems Studios location.

Beltline Northside Trail

BeltLine’s NorthSide Trail is only a mile long and runs from Ardmore Park to Atlanta Memorial Park through Tanyard Creek Park. This trail also features many access points and has street parking. Some views along the way will include the Bobby Jones Golf Course and the Howard Property.

As you leave the NorthSide Trail, stop by “the largest free, temporary outdoor art exhibition in the south” that is the art on the Atlanta Beltline. This outdoor gallery is free to the public and ever-changing, so be sure to stop by regularly when you need an art fix. Various mediums such as sculptures, photography, murals, dance, and more have all been showcased.

Beltline EastSide Trail

This 3-mile casual, multi-use trail is paved and kid-friendly. It runs from 10th Street and Monroe Drive to to Kirkwood Avenue. This trail features many access points and has street parking as well as a paid lot on the northern end. The weekends can get busy, so try to go during the week. The Atlanta Botanical garden, Piedmont Park, Historic Fourth Ward Park, and vibrant murals, sculptures, and graffiti art will all give you some beautiful views along the way.

Several art attractions can also be found nearby. First is the art gallery Paris on Ponce, with over 46,000 square feet of space that showcases antiques, art, oddities, boutiques, and more for you to explore, peruse, and purchase.

Be sure to next check out the Tiny Doors Atlanta art installations, which are truly something special to see. Tiny Doors is self-described as “an Atlanta-based art project bringing big wonder to tiny spaces.” Unique 6-inch doors are strategically placed around the city for people to stumble upon and enjoy. It’s no wonder that #TinyDoorsATL has almost 85,000 followers on Instagram!

After a ride on the BeltLine’s EastSide Trail on a hot day, make sure to cool down at Honeysuckle Gelato in Ponce City Market. Known for unique flavors that taste like the real thing, Honeysuckle Gelato is a wildly popular choice for those with a sweet tooth. Gelato, shakes, and gelato sandwiches are all offered, and you can also buy by the pint at certain grocery stores.

Check out The Independent, a restaurant bar and pool hall, for some good food and fun in a laid back atmosphere in Midtown. There’s reasonably priced drinks and tasty bar food, as well as board games and darts if you aren’t a fan of pool. They also have free wi-fi and poker on the weekends!

Beltline WestEnd Trail

BeltLine’s West End Trail is a casual, flat trail that is paved and 2.4-miles in length. It runs in southwest Atlanta from Rose Circle Park on White Street, through Gordon White Park, and onto Westview Cemetery. Street parking is available. You will get to view the Historic West End, Mozley Park, as well as the first permanent mural along the Atlanta BeltLine.

Nearby Lean Draft House is a unique and family-friendly brewpub that will not disappoint. Lean Draft House has an outdoor patio, yummy craft tacos, local craft beers on tap, and even a showroom of vintage European motorcycles. The patio has picnic tables and umbrellas, space for children to run around, and a community water bowl for dogs.

Greens & Gravy is a small, local spot that serves the delicious soul food of Darius Williams. Making a reservation on OpenTable is highly recommended, but expect friendly staff and a great atmosphere with music playing in the background when you arrive. The mac & cheese is a crowd favorite and a must-try.

Beltline WestSide Trail

Much like the BeltLine’s EastSide Trail, the BeltLine’s WestSide Trail is also a 3-mile casual, multi-use trail that is paved and kid-friendly. It runs from Washington Park and Lena Street to Adair Park and University Avenue with street parking available. Expect views of historic southwest Atlanta neighborhoods and Aluma Farm.

For some organically grown produce to take home after your ride, stop by the Aluma Farm. Expect quality veggies from friendly people, and be sure to stop by the stand on Thursdays from 4-8pm.

Nancy Creek Trail

Running from Murphy Candler Park to Blackburn Park and Johnson Ferry Estates in north-central DeKalb county is the 5.4-mile Nancy Creek Trail. This casual, multi-use trail is paved and kid-friendly. There is parking available at Blackburn Park & Tennis Center, Murphey Candler Park, and Donaldson Drive. Along the way, expect beautiful views of Murphy Candler Lake.

Feel like rewarding your exercise on the Nancy Creek Trail with a gourmet doughnut? Stop nearby at Bon Glaze’s main Brookhaven location! They have unique doughnut flavors like Espresso Creme, Nanner, Blueberry Sour Cream Cake, and Bacon Butterscotch. You can also order specialty doughnuts for parties, corporate events, and even weddings.

Moon Indian Cuisine is a great nearby lunch or dinner spot if you are authentic craving Indian food. Moon Indian Cuisine offers delicious food at a great price point, friendly and attentive service, as well as a clean and quiet atmosphere.

If you are craving Mexican food instead, Pure Taqueria in Brookhaven is a great, close option. Pure Taqueria has tasty food, a family-friendly atmosphere, great margaritas, and a popular rooftop patio and bar that often has live music.

Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is a popular spot that has a 4-mile casual, multi-use trail that is paved and great for the whole family. If you’ve never had the chance to go, the park is located at 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue in midtown Atlanta. There is a SAGE parking garage as well as street parking available. This trail will bring you beautiful views of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Lake Clara Meer, and the skyline.

If you didn’t bring the kids along and are looking for some tasty and local craft beer, stop by Orpheus Brewing. Orpheus can be a bit difficult to find, but it is known for its delicious sours. This microbrewery is a hidden gem that will deliver a unique and memorable experience.

Looking for some good food and quality entertainment? Head from Piedmont Park to Smith’s Olde Bar. Smith’s Olde Bar is a great place to have a relaxing night at an Atlanta classic. Catch a music act at one of the two stages, or head to the game room to play foosball, billiards, or darts.

Silver Comet Trail

This 61.5-mile paved trail is casual and mostly flat, with some challenging hills after mile 45. The Silver Comet Trail starts 13 miles northwest of Atlanta at the intersection of South Cobb Drive and the East-West Connector in Smyrna at the Mavell Road Trailhead, then heads west through Cobb, Paulding, and Polk counties until it hits the Georgia/Alabama state line near Cedartown and the Esom Hill Trailhead. Keep in mind that there is limited cell phone service available west of mile 55.

The nearby sweet tooth option to hit after the Silver Comet Trail is Smallcakes in Smyrna. Smallcakes is known for their delicious and moist mini cupcakes. This place is great for a quick stop, but there are also tables and chairs inside if you decide to stay a while and spend time with family or friends. Smallcakes is also a great catering option for parties and weddings.

While you’re in the area, Patak Meat Products is a popular hidden gem for delicious, high quality meats. This European style butcher shop cures and smokes everything in-house, and often has a line out the door. However, there is no need to fret because service remains quick. Stop by on a weekday to save a little bit of time.

Southwest Connector Spur Trail and Lionel Hampton

This 1.5-mile paved trail connects the existing Lionel Hampton Trail to Westwood Avenue. The casual, multi-use Southwest Connector Spur Trail has parking available at Lionel Hampton Park and along the nearby neighborhood streets. Along with the views of Lionel Hampton Park, enjoy serene stretches of woods.

D Café and Catering is a nearby neighborhood gem that is known for their warm service and tasty eats. It is a popular brunch spot, although it is not open on Sundays. If it’s a beautiful day, grab a table outside!

Maybe you’re a vegan or vegetarian that is looking for some tasty food options. KarbonStar Vitality Vegan Cafe & Juice Bar is a newer nearby spot that has a friendly staff and will not disappoint your taste buds. The pizza is a popular choice, along with many other favorites that even non-vegans enjoy.

South River Trail

Located southeast of Atlanta, the 7-mile South River Trail connects Constitution Road to Gresham Park, Sugar Creek Golf Course, and the Decatur campus of the Georgia Perimeter College. There is parking at Panola Shoals Trailhead, Georgia Perimeter College, and Bouldercrest Road and Constitution. This casual, multi-use trail is also paved and kid-friendly. Along with the campus of Georgia Perimeter College, expect to see scenic overlooks of the South River.

Stone Mountain Trail

The Stone Mountain Trail is a 19-mile casual, multi-use trail that is paved and even has some on-street bike lanes. This trail runs from Piedmont Avenue and Baker Street in Atlanta to Main Street in Stone Mountain Park and has numerous access points with places to park. Catch views of downtown skyscrapers, the MLK Historic Site, Carter Center, Fernbank History Center, Decatur, and of course Stone Mountain.

There are several bakeries along the Stone Mountain Trail, but Pi-Bytes in Stone Mountain is definitely worth checking out. Stop by this small, local business to taste a savory pizza “pi,” sweet dessert “pi,” or both! Locals enjoy the homemade deliciousness and the friendly service.

Several restaurant bars can also be found along the Stone Mountain Trail. One you should definitely stop by is Brockett Pub House & Grill in Clarkston. With a seemingly normal and uninteresting appearance on the outside, the inside is anything but that. You will enjoy great drink choices and prices, plenty of tasty food choices, friendly neighborhood vibes, and excellent service.

The Georgia Beer Garden in Atlanta is another underrated spot that you can find nearby the Stone Mountain Trail. Offering over 110 Georgia-brewed beers and ciders to choose from, with 24 of those available on tap, is just one of the things that makes the Georgia Beer Garden special. There is also an awesome staff, big patio, dancing, yummy food (with vegetarian options as well), and an overall great atmosphere.

Whestone Creek Trail

This casual, multi-use 1.4-mile trail is paved and kid-friendly. It winds through the Adams Crossing and Windsor Hills neighborhoods of northwest Atlanta. There is a parking lot at Bolton Academy less than a block from the trail. You will pass woodlands, Whetstone Marsh, and the scenic wooden bridge over Whetstone Creek.

Stop by Westside Pizza for some of the best pizza and calzones in Atlanta. With the delicious and reasonably priced food, good selection of local beers on tap, dog-friendly patio, and trivia nights, there is definitely something to please everyone!

Other Great Trails

Big Creek Greenway

Big Creek Greenway is a 19.7-mile casual, multi-use trail that is paved with some boardwalk. There are also mountain and dirt bike trails that are accessible from the greenway. Big Creek Greenway runs from Kelly Mill Road in Cumming to McFarland Parkway in Alpharetta, and Marconi Drive in Alpharetta to Big Creek Park in Roswell. Keep in mind that the trail is currently open in two disconnected sections in northeast Alpharetta with the gap being a couple of miles long.

If you find yourself beat from your 19.7-mile ride, stop by Jekyll Brewing to unwind with some delicious craft beer. Jekyll Brewing, the first brewery in Alpharetta, is “Inspired by the South.” It’s easy to see why with beer names like “Southern Juice,” “Big “Creek,” and “Hop Dang Diggity.” They do not serve their own food, but have menus of local restaurants that deliver.

West Palisades Trail

Located in Paces Mill Park near Vinings, this 1.8-mile casual trail is paved and has some uphill ground on the way out. You can buy a day pass to park for five dollars, or parking is free if you possess a Chattahoochee NRA annual pass. Along with views of Paces Mill Park, you’ll see the Chattahoochee River, Rottenwood Creek, and a small waterfall at the trail’s end. Chattahoochee Coffee Co is a literal hidden gem that is concealed within an Atlanta apartment complex. When you find it, you’ll enjoy the delicious coffee, friendly atmosphere, plentiful wall outlets, and beautiful views of the river. This is known as a great place for students to study or for anyone else who needs to get work done. If you’re looking for some tasty food to-go after riding the West Palisades Trail, go to Heirloom Market BBQ. Heirloom is a unique and delicious mixture of both Korean and Southern BBQ. For a large menu, juicy and tender meat, delicious sauces, house-made pickles, glass bottled sodas and more, you need to visit Heirloom.

Rico Starr Loop

The Rico Starr Loop is a 21-mile mostly-smooth paved path with a few bumpy spots. It starts around 30 miles outside of metro Atlanta at Peachtree Bikes in Palmetto. Be sure to bring water with you, as there are few places to stop along the way once you exit the Serenbe community. This loop is not considered kid-friendly. You’ll pass by Serenbe, Chattahoochee Hills, and Palmetto, with nice views of open fields, wooded areas, and farmland.

Cochran Shoals Trail

The 3.1-mile Cochran Shoals Trail is an unpaved, gravel trail that is mostly easy with more intermediate offshoots. This trail is ideal for mountain biking, and is located on the northwestern outskirts of Atlanta and follows the western bank of the Chattahoochee River. You are welcome to bring kids, but it may get crowded on the weekends. Free parking lots are located at the north end off of Columns Drive as well as the north end off of Interstate North.

Suwanee Greenway

The Suwanee Greenway Trail is located in Suwanee Creek Park and George Pierce Park. This 4-mile trail is casual, multi-use, and paved with some boardwalk as well. A precaution to note is that there is a sharp descent from the road to the river valley that must be walked for an approximate quarter mile. You will see views of Suwanee Creek, forest and wetlands, as well as Martin Farm Park.

Tired of southern-style food and want to shake it up? Head to Lucky Dog Chicago Style & More for some Chicago Style hotdogs and burgers, delicious fries, and friendly service. Lucky Dog even offers hotdogs for those who are vegetarian or vegan! Get a true taste of Chicago in the middle of Suwanee.

Camp Creek Greenway

The 4.2-mile casual, multi-use paved trail that is Camp Creek Greenway runs east-west through Lilburn in northeastern Atlanta from Lilburn City Park to Lions Club Park. Several parking options are available at Lilburn City Park, Lions Club Park, and Velva Court. Bicycle rentals are even available from April through November, as well as concessions.

Grab some delicious food at the nearby 1910 Public House. Expect your meal to be made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Easily pair a local beer from one of the many offered on tap with your meal. The menu is also mainly gluten free, so there is truly something for everyone.

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