This is a great way to spend an afternoon outdoors! I have gone on a hike using EP10 which takes you to a beautiful city view! I have also just hung out in the river! The water is freezing for this Miami girl but it feels so good against this Georgia Heat! We will definitely be coming back frequently! A lot of people were tubing which I would love to try next time! Warning: Dogs without leashes everywhere! It wasn't an issue but I know that can make people nervous! Definitely rocky floor I would definitely recommend water shoes! Current can be pretty strong if you get into deep enough water! River floor is every uneven so it might be difficult for some individuals to trek. read more

This was such a beautiful hike! If you plan on hiking try arriving before 11:00am as the parking lot fills up pretty quickly! Be sure to use the restroom prior to arrival as there are NO restrooms on site. If you want to see the bamboo forest there is a certain way that will take you there. The bamboo forest can be found on EP 26 (see map). If you plan on going on a hike have fun exploring and enjoying God's nature! This location is great for a day date, place to chat with friends or nice getaway for a solo trip! read more

See all

Great hiking area! The trail is more level the closer you are to the Chattahoochee River. The trails farther from the river are more challenging, as some of the trail segments are steep, few of the trail segments are wide and most of the trails have ruts and tree roots that can easily trip you up if you're not watching where you're walking. Parking at the Whitewater Creek parking lot may be challenging. When the weather is nice during the weekends, people tend to come early, and the parking lot down at the bottom near the Chattahoochee River will get full. I haven't even attempted to come here if I think parking may be tight. Oh, and many people think that parking is free, but it's not. There is currently a $5 fee for parking here, and you can pay online using the instructions at the shelter that has park info where the parking lot stops and the trail starts. Bring at least one bottle of water, and know that there aren't any restrooms. Most of the trail segments are marked on maps posted at trail intersections telling visitors where they are, and which trail segment they're on. Before you visit, check the weather forecast for the area. You don't want to be on the trail when it is raining because it gets slippery. You also don't want to be out on the trail when it's dark; the unevenness of the trails are dangerous in the dark. Go at your own pace, and enjoy your hike and the views along the way! read more

See all

Great spot to reconnect with nature! Central to the city and not hard to find. The trail has easy-to-read maps and posts so you can navigate yourself around. Awesome place for your pet friends to take a swim as it's right off of the Chattahoochie River. :) The parking is limited and can be a bit frustrating on a busy day. read more

Whitewater Creek Trail - Trail - Hiking Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

See all

Love it. The only place in Atlanta that got me out the apartment. Great hikes and awesome times at the beach! read more

Whitewater Creek Trail - Hiking Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

Whitewater Creek Trail is an AOK place to go when you're looking for a decent hike to get some moderate exercise. The terrain it covers features a number of elevation changes, some fairly rocky stretches of trail, and LOTS of tree roots. Tip: There's a bamboo forest at the edge of the river close to the North end of the trail. When you get here be careful - there's a lot of poison ivy! Close to the parking lot, you'll find a shallow swimming/wading area; it's appropriate for both small children and dogs. Note that there are no restrooms here. read more

See all

I like both sides of the river. The parking lot is much larger and seldom full on the other side. Each is a Federal Park, actually a part of the NATIONAL Park system. Those who have the senior Federal lifetime pass can use that and not pay at both. Just put the pass where its visable on the dashboard. Otherwise you self pay at the pay center. The lot at this park which is on the east side of the river is often full on weekends unless there has been changes recently. It was closed for construction about a year ago and Ive not been since. 1 WARNING- About 5 years ago I was on the west side of the river trail where that trail comes to a point. A ways north of where a creek comes in from the west. It was a nice day and the water moving at a slower speed. I decided to swim across to the other side. I ended up a ways more downstream as the current takes you downstream. At that point there were lots of reeds and I tried to stand and I sunk into gooey silt, like liquid clay or quicksand. This place was in shallow water but body weight alone made me sink into this stuff and I had a hard time getting out. It was scary and difficult. So just be aware there are spots like this that can be very dangerous. A dog might be ok as it usually doesnt have the weight a person has, but keep this in mind anyway for any dog or human that is out in the water for any reason. This stuff is NOT in the primary places people would enter the river on either side, ie the boat ramp on the vinings side or the beach near parking on the east side but they can be very close to shore north on the east side of the river at this park. Also beware of rattlesnakes. You dont see them often but I have on occasion. Its often small ones but they can be scary too! Yesterday on the west side I saw a tiny turtle on the trail. Another guy moved it to a safer place. On the return trip it was back trying to get on the cement, so I moved it to the river side which appeared to be a better place for it. It wasnt much larger than a quarter. read more

We visited here on a Sunday around 1 p.m. After finding the entrance, we encountered a park employee who was on traffic-control duty. She advised us that the lot might be full, but then waived us through. Your apparent options are to either park on the street outside the entrance (at least that might be free?) or descend about 1/4 mile on a narrow road to the dirt and gravel parking lot for the park. Passing other cars en route was mildly challenging. The lot was indeed crowded, but we managed to find a space. It is not a large lot. Parking costs $5 which you pay via a website linked to the NPS. It takes about 5 minutes to enter your info and get an email receipt. The closest area to the parking lot is a flat sandy area that appeared popular with dog owners. It was fun just to watch the dogs for a few minutes. You then have a single trail north that diverges a couple of times. It looked like you could do various sizes of loops if you had time. Our visit was limited, so we stuck to the trail closest to the river for a while. We visited a day or two after a heavy rain, so the trail was muddy in spots. Note that all the trails are dirt / natural, so you may want to consider recent weather as a factor in your visit. We also encountered quite a few other hikers; it never felt like you were alone in the woods. Maybe it is different in the morning or during a weekday. On the whole, we were not super-impressed with the hiking here. A few weeks later we tried a trail on roughly the opposite bank of the river. That one (Rottenwood Creek) is paved and less congested, plus it has ample parking. This isn't a bad spot, but if I had to choose one of these for a walk, I'd go to the other one. read more

Love watching all the dogs play in the river. Most all the dogs are very well behaved and play together well. For more pics see "The Chattahoochee Gang" album on Picfair. https://lmplatt1.picfair.com/albums/203341-the-chattahoochee-gang read more

See all

Love taking my dog here for Sunday Funday! Thus far we've only been twice but She really enjoys the other dogs and owners! Everyone is super nice and aside from the "dog beach" (which is what people call it since the dogs have completely taken over lol) there is also the walking trail which I hear ft. a cool bamboo forest! There are a few park benches but I recommend bringing lawn shares and a snack because after you come it's hard to get your dog to leave! I would also recommend carpooling if possible because there aren't many parking spots which is the only downside of voting this park! read more

See all

This is a good short hike in the middle of Buckhead that you could do in a couple of hours. Pros: - a place to be with nature in the middle of the city - beautiful views of the river - lots of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery Cons: - short hiking trails - not all of the trails are clearly laid out - parking is really difficult to come by (the path to get to the parking lot close to the river is really narrow and difficult to get to because people park along the side of the path) Recommendation: - Go if you are itching for a hike and can't get away to Sweetwater or North Georgia for a day. Bring your dog if you have one and make a day of it! - Make sure to look out for the path markers and make it a point to go to the highest point of the trail (over looks the whole river) and the bamboo forrest. read more

See all

First of all, I want to say that this isn't a "trail" but the parking for the East Palisades Trail. There are TWO parking areas for the East Palisades Trail. The other one is at Indian Trail which is listed for the Yelp page for East Palisades Trail - https://www.yelp.com/biz/chattahoochee-river-national-recreation-area-east-palisades-atlanta One of my complaints about Indian Trail parking lot is the parking lot, it is NOT paved and has a small narrow gravel road. I have to say that the parking lot at Whitewater Creek Trail is well maintain and paved. However, it is very small. Fortunately for me, I'm an early bird and like to hike early so finding a parking space was no problem at all. Come early. I have to say when leaving around 11 am, the parking lot was full and there were tons of cars parked on the side of the path to the parking lot and even on the street side before getting into the trail. It was an overflow and a ranger came out to block anyone going out to see where they were parked. I said I was going to come back and find the bamboo forest and I conquered and succeeded! I am happy to say that for some reason, no one online or anyone who has gone there gave any good directions or indicators where it is located. Well, I am NOT going to be that person. I'll tell you where it is. If you look at the trail map. It is located between #16 and #26 but closer to #26. Is there a way to park close to #26?? I'm only wondering cause I've seen photoshoots at the bamboo forest, professional ones. I cannot imagine anyone parking at either Indian Trail or Whitewater Trail and hike to go there to look all pretty. I'm sure someone knows and that person isn't sharing the info. Regardless, I got a good 6 miles walk this morning. I know I went off trail for a bit cause I went to this super hard trail. I seriously thought I was going the right way because I saw someone come from that way but now looking at the map, it is not a trail. I have been to every marker on there except for #18 just cause I already conquered the bamboo forest. The bamboos are huuuge. I was sad to see some people carve on some of them. There were some bamboos that were brown and not pretty green like how the blogs, photoshoots, and Instagram show. Whitewater Creek Trail also has a beach area for dogs. Great for dog fans! It is between #28 and #29. I see a lot of trail runners and loose dogs that are obedient. Overall, I still enjoy East Palisades Trail a lot. I definitely like Whitewater Creek Trail much more for the paved parking lot. When you are hiking, you would never think you are in the city. 87/2017 read more

See all

Whitewater creek trail was breath taking. I am glad I was able to hike this beautiful place. It was so relaxing

This hike was a pleasant surprise just a few miles from home. Great light, hills and most importantly water. The soft rapids and rock formations make this place unique and interesting. read more

I go trail running/hiking with my dog often and hands down Whitewater Creek is my favorite place. The trail names are confusing but according to the CRNA website there are 4 Palisades. WEST of the River : 1. West Palisades- Akers Drive 2. Paces Mill Palisades -off 41-goes under 285 bridge EAST of the River : 1. Whitewater Creek Palisades- (this one) off Whitewater Creek Trail 2. East Palisades- off Indian Trail It is part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area so you need to buy a $3 parking pass each time you come. But Hey- our National Parks are going broke and the money they collect here helps maintain the trail. Where else can you enjoy so much for so little? Or you can do like I do and buy a year pass for about $35. Makes it so easy. The trail is 95% shade which means you can hike here most of the year without overheating yourself or your dog. Portions of the trail are steep so it's a great workout and you can add on several extra legs if you want a longer hike. The trail markings can be a little tricky. Thank goodness someone marked numbers on the signs recently. Thank you to that person! Best part for my dog is the swim in the river at the end. This is a long established DOG BEACH and dogs run free here. So... if you bring your little kids, they will be splashed and knocked over. I uploaded a photo of the Map. The inner loop (#10-8 -7- 3) is steep and takes you down a challenging narrow, rocky, trail. The outer loop (#10-8-6-5-4) is more gradual. The lookout spot (off #10) is amazing and you can see long portions of the beautiful river. I've seen deer, squirrels and snakes in the forest. Tips: 1. This place gets super crowded; Limited parking. 2. No Restrooms 3. Bring bug spray 4. "Leaves of 3 Let them Be" (Poison Ivy) read more

See all

Absolutely LOVE this trail. It's so versitile in the atmosphere, trails and activities you can participate in. It's located within a woodsy Buckhead community. But, eventually you get to the dirt road that takes you down to a little parking lot for all guests And it's free! No check-ins. No passes. I noticed a lot of people take their dogs on the trail, go fishing, rafting, running, and of course hiking!!! There are so many different trails that branch off of other trails here. It's well mapped! The trails aren't marked though. There was one case where my husband thought one part was a trail and it wasn't and we walked down a very step hill that appeared to be a trail but wasn't. Anyways, husband got pissed (haha) but, whatever! An extra workout! Great views of the Chattahoochee River! Absolutely breath taking! I advise you go! STRONGLY encourage it :) read more

See all

Love this trail! I would love to give 5 stars, as it's a wonderful place to trail run or hike, but I took away 1 star as the paths are not marked well at all. Someone has recently taped hand-written numbers to the maps/signs, but some have peeled off. I recently took a wrong turn and added nearly a mile to my trail run! Otherwise, it's a great location (so easy to get to and ITP!), has amazing views of the river & city, and the parking is pretty decent. Both the trails and river's edge (sort of a beach/hangout area) are very dog & kid friendly. There are signs saying to keep pets on leashes, but a lot of people don't... I have yet to see it cause any problems. Make sure to bring $3 cash for parking (or a check if anyone still has those), and if the lot is full just hang out a minute... Spots tend to open up quickly. read more

See all

Park entrance is closed and will be closed for the foreseeable future. Use other entrances.

While it's not my favorite set of trails on the Chattahoochee, they're still a good workout and offer a hiking option without bikes. Also a great trail for dogs. I love that you can wade and relax alongside the river via a small beach-like area right off the trail. I wished I'd brought my swim suit so I could enjoy it more. The water is cool and refreshing after a morning hike. read more

See all

I've never written a review for a hiking trail before but this place deserves all the stars! My boyfriend and I have come here two Saturdays in a row because there is just so much to see and it's a fun way to start of the weekend! It is not a difficult hike but you will work up a sweat for sure as some of the uphill parts can be quite long. My favorite parts of the trail were EP26 which had a lovely bamboo forest and between EP10/EP14 was a beautiful lookout spot. The trail has some parts along the peaceful Chattahoochee river and other parts that go through the cool, shaded forest. On average, we have spent around 1.5-2 hours here and parking is $3. Great escape from the city! read more

See all

One of my favorite trails to hike in Georgia. Beautiful lookout point where you can see the river and the trees. There's also a drop off zone where people hang out and let there dogs play in the river. read more

Whitewater Creek Trail - Hiking Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

Parking is limited on the weekend, so go early. I go during the week however and I love this place! There are plenty of routes to take. The trails are covered pretty well by trees so it's not too hot, and of course it's near the river so that is definitely a plus! One of my favorite places to go around this area for sure! I haven't been to the dog area yet or seen the bamboo Forrest but it's something to do when I go back! read more

Whitewater Creek Trail - Hiking Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

Heaven for water dog. Water is very clear with stone pallets at the bottom. There are both shallow places and deep places, so dogs can play with the water or actual swim. Many dogs here during weekend. Scene is terrific! My dog LOVES it! read more

Whitewater Creek Trail - Hiking Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

This is probably my favorite to place to hike with my dog during the week and on weekends. It's gorgeous! It's like dog heaven. There are shallow parts of the river and when the water levels are low there is a beach for the dogs to run and swim in. Love this place! read more

Whitewater Creek Trail - Hiking Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

See all

Beautiful trails along the Chattahoochee River. We made a loop and RT measured 3.5 miles. Excellent water play for dogs. read more

See all

Be careful when using maps for this. It will take you to a dead end road but you really need to go to pumping station road. The trails are great and super dog friendly and there is a great area for dogs to swim without being too far out in the current. read more

Nice trail took my dog to the dog beach. There was plenty of dogs enjoying the water.

Someone at the dog park told me about this place. I took my rescue pup there the following wkend. There was no parking ... car parked everywhere- very hard to pass safely as pedestrians were everywhere. Once I found parking we started the trail from the main entrance point. It was too crowded and many aggressive dogs off leash. I will be going back but during the week not on weekend with my fur baby. read more

Awesome for active dogs!!! Take a towel...bluetooth speaker...a cooler and RELAX THE DAY AWAY!!

Excellent hike for the pups....and it has a "dog beach!"

Extremely rude low class people here who don't keep their dogs under control. Muddy slippery conditions made it very unsafe to take my dog into the water by the "dog beach." Unruly children not being supervised by parents. One woman thought it was funny that her pit bull was aggressively trying to jump my dog and she got nasty when I asked her to restrain him. I will never go back. read more

Great little hike to bring the pups to. Oh, and their is an off leash dog beach which is awesome if you have water dogs. All around good fun. read more

Beautiful area to escape the traffic and enjoy the nature. Great to bring your pups too!

This morning around 8AM, my 20 pound Jack Russell terrier (who was on a leash) and I were attacked by a gray pit bull (named Bella who was not on a leash) on the East Palisades Trail at the Chattahoochee River. I thought we were going to die when it happened - but we were not hurt. I had already picked up my dog and was trying to shelter her in my arms, when the pit bull knocked us to the ground. The owner was able to get her off before more damage was done. This is the reason it's against the law to have your dog off leash anywhere - on any trail - even in the water - within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. The dog's owner was very sorry. She replied that many people have their dogs off leash here and she suggested this might not be the best place for me to walk my dog. I later call the Ranger. Nothing he could do since I didn't have anyway to identify the owner. He said it is a problem and people seem to think it's OK to have dogs off leash here - and that they share that misinformation on social media. He said he will request that Rangers patrol the area more often. read more

I am so happy to have experienced this beautiful and serene area of Atlanta, only 15 minutes away from where I am visiting in Smyrna. For two hours I walked in the peaceful woods with varied views and elevations. Many paths, enough to find mostly solitude, although parking was full. Will definitely return. read more

See all

Since my ticketing experience in April, friends have been to the river with their dogs and not had an issue with ticketing. Just be mindful that is has happened, and maybe only let your dog off at the main part of the river. Hopefully my experience was an anomaly and not regular as this is a great spot when you are allowed to use it. read more

Love it here! I have 2 dogs (mastiff and pitbull) and they love it also. As soon as you enter there is the river (I call this part a creek because it branches off of the river) Anyways it is almost like a dog park for the dogs to play in the water. A whole bunch of dogs running, swimming, and etc. The trails are amazing as well! We love hiking them. Only reason I did not rate a 5 out of 5 was because to many people on the trails have their dogs off leash. I am actually all for that except the part where owners let their dogs run out of their eye sight. The other day I was walking my dogs and a huge German Shepard came out of no where, no leash and no owner. Well he came up to my dogs (mastiff is Dog friendly and pitbull not so much especially being on a leash) . German Shepard came up growling and walking slowly up to my dogs and lunged at them, well obviously my 150 pound mastiff and 90 pound pit reacted and fought back. Well we know who won that battle. The owner of the German Shepard was upset (although she didn't see the fight because she was no where in sight). Anyways, just wasn't a good situation but just remember your dog may be friendly but that doesn't mean other people's dogs are and also some people are dealthy afraid of dogs or in my case your dog may get hurt from a dog fight. It's just common curiosity for all! read more

I loved it. I'm in Atlanta for 10 weeks of training, and I was looking for some nature to hike and decompress after my work week. I had planned on driving out of Atlanta, but the weather was dreary, so I decided to stay in town. I'm glad I did. I went midday and I was the only one out there when I got there. Great trails, I saw ducks and a beaver. read more

I believe this trail is also known as East Palisades and is part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area so it should have cost you $3. . There are two entrances. One with very little parking is at the end of Indian Trail Rd off Northside Dr. The other that has more parking is at the end of Whitewater Creek Rd, via Harris Trail and Mt Paran Rd. From there the climb to the overlook is quite steep and the maps are not helpful. read more