Top 10 Trails in Cherokee County to Visit This Autumn
Top 10 Trails in Cherokee County to Visit This Autumn
Welcome to Fall in the Foothills
The first day of fall is finally here! Sep. 22 marks the Autumn Equinox this year, and with it comes cool air, colorful trees and Cherokee’s favorite time of the year. Perhaps the best way to get out and enjoy all Cherokee County has to offer this fall is to explore our outdoor recreation trails.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best trails in Cherokee County to enjoy on a fall weekend, but there are many more to explore! Visit playcherokee.org to search for trails and parks near you.
Ball Ground
On the north end of the county, Ball Ground has much to offer for outdoor recreation.
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Roberts Lake Trail
Explore the ruins of Roberts’ Dam on the Roberts Lake Trail. This 1.4-mile trail can be accessed in the heart of downtown, so you can grab an after-hike treat at Scooped on Main or Jill’s Bakery.
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Calvin Farmer Park Loop
If working up a sweat is not on your fall to-do list, a calm stroll around the Calvin Farmer Park Loop might be more your speed. Located in Calvin Farmer Park in downtown Ball Ground, the 0.6-mile loop is perfect for a quick walk while enjoying the fall weather.
Canton
Canton encompasses an extensive trail system for you to enjoy this autumn.
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Blankets Creek Bike Trails
Fall is the perfect weather for some off-road riding. Check out the Blankets Creek Bike Trails in Canton for over 15-miles of mountain bike trails. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced rider, Blanket Creek has something to offer you.
This partnership between Cherokee County, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and SORBA Woodstock also includes pavilions and restrooms at the trailhead, so you can take biking break and enjoy the fall time breeze. View the map here.
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Etowah River Park
Etowah River Park not only includes a playground, two pavilions, a public canoe launch and extensive athletic fields, it offers a shaded stroll this autumn over the beautiful Etowah River. This 0.5-mile concrete walking trail connects the 58-acre park with Heritage Park. Take a refreshing walk and breathe in the crisp fall air.
Holly Springs
Experience fall in Holly Springs this season with several trails and outdoor activities.
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J.B. Owens Loop
The J.B. Owens Loop of Holly Springs is a fall reprieve from the day-to-day hustle. The 1.2-mile loop is situated by a grassy field, playground and picnic tables. Grab an Alma Coffee pumpkin latte and enjoy your stroll.
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Hickory Trails Park
A more secluded walk, Hickory Trails Park is a 0.75-mile trail through a cool, wooded area. Enter the trailhead through a grassy field, complete with benches and a pavilion – perfect for an autumn picnic.
Waleska
Enjoy Cherokee’s autumn breeze on foot or on horseback with Waleska’s Garland Mountain Horse and Hiking Trails. The trail system consists of 19.7 miles for you to explore this autumn with or without your equine friends. View the map here.
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Garland Mountain: East Side Loop
The Garland Mountain East Side Loop makes up 3.9 miles of the trail system. Crossing several small streams, the East Side Loop is moderately difficult and open to horses and humans alike. The West Side Loop of Garland Mountain is longer, running at 9.5 miles long.
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Garland Mountain: Sorrel and Dunn Loop
If your heart is set on a relaxing autumn weekend, the Sorrel and Dunn Loop in the Garland Mountain Trail system is a 1.2-mile flat walk that’s well shaded – and still allows you to catch a glimpse of some majestic horses.
Woodstock
Woodstock’s extensive trail system is guided by the Green Prints Trail System master plan, which was initiated in 2007. Once completed, the plan aims to create 60 miles of off-road trails.
While the master plan is still under construction, there are many miles of completed trails for you to explore this fall.
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Olde Rope Mill Park Trails
You may be familiar with Olde Rope Mill Park, but did you know it is home to several miles of trails?
The Trestle Rock Trail runs approximately 0.4-miles along the Little River in Olde Rope Mill Park. The flat, concrete multi-use trail is perfect for a leisurely walk among the remnants of Olde Rope Mill.
The Little River Pedestrian Bridge paints a picturesque scene while allowing people to cross to the north side of the river. Take in the history of Olde Rope Mill and its iconic train trestle or continue to the Mill Mountain Bike Trail for even more natural views.
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Noonday Creek Trail
Fresh air and the great outdoors aren’t the only things Cherokee’s trail system offers. The 1.5-mile-long Noonday Creek Trail connects downtown Woodstock to Highway 92 – right past all the must-stop restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, breweries and more that downtown Woodstock has to offer. You can satisfy your thirst for adventure and locally crafted treats all in one outing. The trail can be accessed from the Woofstock Dog Park or Market Street in downtown.
To check out the complete plan for Green Print’s expansion, visit their website greenprintsalliance.org.
Read more Cherokee County news here.