Ramble Trails

West Palisades Trail (CRNRA)

Location: 33.870921, -84.453343
Trail Length: 4 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Trail details

Amenities

Paved Multi-use Trail, Hiking Trail

Activities

Wildlife viewing, Canoeing, Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Tubing, Swimming

Attractions

Family-Friendly, Pet-friendly (leashed), Boat Ramp, Parking ($5 day pass)

Hours of Operation

7 AM TO 6 PM

Share this Trail:

Trail details

Amenities

Paved Multi-use Trail, Hiking Trail

Activities

Wildlife viewing, Canoeing, Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Tubing, Swimming

Attractions

Family-Friendly, Pet-friendly (leashed), Boat Ramp, Parking ($5 day pass)

Hours of Operation

7 AM TO 6 PM

Share this Trail:

Trail

overview

The West Palisades Trail in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area offers a captivating hiking experience with its scenic views and varied terrain.

Along

the trail

Stretching approximately 4 miles, this trail meanders along the western edge of the Chattahoochee River, providing hikers with picturesque river vistas, rugged rock formations, and lush forest surroundings. The trail features a mix of flat stretches and more challenging sections with moderate inclines, making it accessible to a range of fitness levels while still offering a rewarding adventure. Highlights include impressive overlooks where visitors can pause to take in the sweeping views of the river and the natural landscape.

Trail

history

The West Palisades Trail is part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, established in 1978 through legislation signed by President Jimmy Carter. The trail meanders through the Palisades West Unit, a 302-acre section in Cobb County, Georgia, known for its rugged terrain and scenic river views. Over the years, the trail has undergone enhancements to improve visitor experience and accessibility. Notably, in 2021, the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy funded the construction of three overlooks along the river, offering improved vistas of the Chattahoochee.

As part of broader park improvements and recovery efforts following damage from Hurricane Helene in September 2024, the newly renovated “New Day Palisades” area is set to open on June 7, 2025. This phase includes upgraded river access, sustainable landscaping, and improved amenities to enhance the trailhead experience for all visitors.

More to Explore

Help Share a New River Connection

Chattahoochee RiverLands Pedestrian Trail Bridge

The City of Smyrna and Trust for Public Land are exploring a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge across the Chattahoochee River. This bridge could improve connections between existing and planned trail systems in Smyrna and Atlanta while creating new opportunities for recreation, mobility, and access to the river. Share your input on project priorities, potential uses, and how this connection could serve the community.