3 Best Hiking Trails in Athens, GA

"Sandy Creek Park is a 782-acre outdoor recreation area with nature trails, disc golf, and boating activities at Lake Chapman. The park boasts the distinction of being home to the sole beach, providing a unique opportunity for aquatic recreation. The park also has over 28,000 square feet of sandy shoreline and more than half an acre of designated swimming areas. Additionally, the park features an extensive network of trails totaling over 14 miles. These trails wind through easy-to-moderate terrain, catering to hikers, walkers, and equestrians of all ages and skill levels. Sandy Creek Park ensures facilities like public restrooms, picnic tables, and pet-friendly areas.

"Ben Burton Park is a 32-acre riverside park, an ideal destination to have a pleasant and relaxed time with family and friends. This is a 1.5-mile loop trail with an elevation gain of 141 feet. This is generally considered an easy route, and it takes an average of 35 minutes to complete the entire trail. This nature area features a wooded hiking trail and a ramp for kayaks and canoes. This trail is operated by the Leisure Services Department. The trail also includes facilities like public restrooms, huge picnic tables, barbecue grills, kid-friendly hikes, and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot for the comfort of visitors.

"North Oconee River Greenway Trail spans 3.5 miles, and is 10 feet wide, offering a paved multi-use path accessible to all non-motorized activities. The trail seamlessly connects with Cook's Greenway Trail and extends southward along the North Oconee River Trail until Dudley Park. The trail provides ample opportunities for exploration and recreation. To enhance the experience of the visitors, the trail offers additional links to the Greenway, ensuring convenient access for all. Visitors can enjoy various facilities, including spacious parking, picnicking areas, and other recreational amenities conveniently located along the Greenway route.