Whether you're a nature lover, an active adventurer, or someone who enjoys leisurely outdoor experiences with your kids, Athens has something to offer everyone. So - gather your loved ones, lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic, then enjoy the beauty of autumn together! Browse Mac KID Athens' list of local (and neighboring cities') outdoor fall experiences below!
Be sure to check the hours of operation and admission fees before traveling. Each location's website has been attached for your convenience.
Did I miss something on these lists? Let me know by sending me an e-mail: jessicasweeney@macaronikid.com.
| Hiking Spots in Athens/Oconee 🏞️ |
Ben Burton Park: This 1.4 mile trail offers a moderate hike through woods and along the Oconee River that offers a "quick and easy" hiking experience.
Heritage Park Trails: This park offers short hiking trails that wind through wooded areas, bordering the Apalachee River.
Oconee River Greenway Trail System: These paved trails follow the North Oconee River and provides a scenic route for both walking and biking.
Sandy Creek Park Trails: Sandy Creek Park offers a network of hiking trails that wind through woods and along the lake. The trails vary in length and difficulty, making them suitable for hikers of all ages.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia: The garden features several nature trails that meander through diverse habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and native plant collections. It's a great spot for an easy stroll or a short hike.
Trails at Watson Mill Bridge State Park: This state park near Athens offers hiking trails that take you through wooded areas and along the river. The park's covered bridge is a highlight of the experience.
WalkerPark Trails: Walker Park offers both paved and natural surface trails for hiking. The trails wind through woods and open spaces.
| Biking Trails in Athens/Oconee 🚵 |
Ben Burton Park: This 1.4 mile trail offers a moderate ride through woods and along the Oconee River that offers a "quick and easy" riding experience.
Bishop Park Trails: These trails are located within Bishop Park and are great for riders looking for a moderate biking experience with some elevation changes and natural features.
Firefly Trail: The Firefly Trail spans 39 miles which connects Athens to Winterville via a multi-use path, providing a safe and scenic route for biking.
Fort Yargo State Park: Located in Winder, GA, Fort Yargo State Park offers 4 looped trails that range in difficulty and scenery.
Herman C. Michael Park: Located in Oconee County, this park has multi-use trails that are suitable for short bike rides.
North Oconee River Greenway: These paved trails follow the North Oconee River and provide a scenic route for both walking and biking.
Sandy Creek Park Trails: Sandy Creek Park offers a network of hiking trails that wind through woods and along the lake. The trails vary in length and difficulty, making them suitable for hikers of all ages.
WalkerPark Trails: Walker Park offers both paved and natural surface trails for hiking. The trails wind through woods and open spaces.
| Camping Spots in Athens/Oconee 🏕️ |
Fort Yargo State Park: Located in Winder, GA, Fort Yargo State Park offers 12 walk-in campsites with amenities such as water and electricity, as well as primitive camping sites. The park features a lake for fishing and boating, hiking trails, and a disc golf course.
Hard Labor Creek State Park: Located in Rutledge, GA, this state park provides a range of camping options, from tent sites to RV sites with full hookups. The park offers hiking trails, a lake for fishing and boating, and a golf course.
Watson Mill Bridge State Park: Situated near Comer, GA, this state park offers traditional, equestrian, and pioneer camping sites along the tranquil South Fork River. The park is known for its historic covered bridge.
| Places to See Fall Colors In and Around Athens/Oconee 🍂 |
Fort Yargo State Park: Also close to Athens, Fort Yargo State Park offers a lake, hiking trails, and picnic areas surrounded by trees that put on a colorful show during the fall season.|
Hard Labor Creek State Park: Located near Rutledge, this state park is known for its rich fall foliage. The park's hiking trails and lakeside views make it a great spot to enjoy the changing colors.
North Oconee River Greenway: This greenway offers walking and biking paths along the river, providing ample opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and witness the fall foliage.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia: Located in Athens, the botanical garden boasts a variety of trees and plants that showcase brilliant fall colors. It's a convenient spot to enjoy the changing leaves without traveling far.
Watson Mill Bridge State Park: Just a short drive from Athens, this state park features hiking trails and a covered bridge surrounded by trees that create a picturesque fall scene.
| Outdoor Fall Fun and Foliage One Hour (Or Two) From Athens, GA 🍁 |
Amicalola Falls State Park: Although a bit farther away, this park's waterfalls and hiking trails are flanked by hardwood forests that turn into a spectacular display of fall colors.
Blue Ridge Mountains: If you're willing to take a longer drive, the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia offer some of the most iconic fall foliage in the region.
Brasstown Bald: A 2-hour drive from Athens, this is the highest point in Georgia, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape as the leaves change colors.
Chicopee Woods Mountain Bike Trails: Located in Gainesville, GA, these trails offer a variety of loops and technical sections suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Don Carter State Park - This State Park located in Gainesville, GA includes horse trails, paddle trails, private boating, and over 14 miles of hiking trails.
Lake Hartwell State Park: Lake Hartwell State Park offers camping along the shores of Lake Hartwell. Enjoy water activities, fishing, hiking, and exploring the park's natural surroundings.
Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge: A bit outside of Athens, this refuge offers opportunities for wildlife watching, birding, and hiking.
Raven Cliff Falls Trail: This trail in Helen, GA leads to a stunning waterfall and offers a more challenging hiking experience.
Victoria Bryant State Park: Located in Royston, GA, and offers tent and RV camping options. Enjoy hiking trails, a golf course, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Here are some other outdoor fall fun ideas you can enjoy together!
🐟 Fishing: Check out this Mac KID's Article listing the top 12 fishing spots in Athens.
🔥 Bonfires: Gather around a bonfire with friends and family. Roast marshmallows, make s'mores, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.
🌞 Fall Picnic: Pack a picnic with warm comfort foods and head to a park or nature area to enjoy the crisp fall air.
🏈 Outdoor Sports: Engage in outdoor sports like football, soccer, or frisbee. The cooler temperatures make physical activities more enjoyable!
📷 Photography: Bring your camera or smartphone and capture the beauty of the season, from colorful leaves to misty mornings.
🍁 Outdoor Art: Create leaf rubbings, nature collages, or paint on rocks that you've gathered.
⭐ Stargazing: Fall evenings can offer clear skies for stargazing. Bring a telescope or simply lie back and enjoy the celestial show.
🙏🏻 Outdoor Yoga: Practice yoga in a park or other outdoor space to connect with nature while staying active.
🎃 Harvest Celebrations: Check out this Mac KID Athens' article that lists 50+ Fall Events and Celebrations in and around Athens.
Take a moment to browse fall-fun articles written by other Macaroni KID Publishers
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