Sweetwater Creek State Park: Red Trail
Ramble Trails
Ramble Trails
Share this Trail:
Share this Trail:
The Medlock Bridge Unit Trail follows the banks of the Chattahoochee River in the Duluth and Peachtree Corners area of Gwinnett County. The 1.3-mile loop trail provides an easy to moderate walk through forest and riverside areas. It is suitable for walking, jogging, and short hikes. The trail offers consistent views of the river and opportunities to see local wildlife in a quiet, natural setting.
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The trail begins near the parking area and boat ramp and follows the river for much of its length. Several short paths lead to sandy or rocky areas along the water that serve as informal overlooks. Visitors can often see people fishing or paddling on the river, as well as birds and turtles along the banks.
The inland portion of the trail passes through a wooded area with native plants and light elevation changes. Benches and small clearings provide places to rest. The trail surface is natural and can be muddy after rain. Compared to more developed areas of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, Medlock Bridge is typically less crowded and offers a calm walking experience.
There are no restroom facilities on site. Visitors should bring water, wear appropriate footwear, and take all trash with them.
The Medlock Bridge area has been used as a river crossing for more than a century. In the late 1800s, William Oliver Medlock operated a ferry here, connecting communities on both sides of the Chattahoochee River. The ferry was later replaced by a bridge, giving the area its name. Parts of the trail follow the general route of historic roads that once led to this crossing.
The site also reflects a longer history of human use of the river. Indigenous peoples once used the Chattahoochee corridor for travel, fishing, and trade. When the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area was established in 1978, the Medlock Bridge site was included to preserve public access to this section of the river. The trail now provides a way for visitors to experience both the natural environment and the history of this part of the river.
Ramble Trails
Ramble Trails
Ramble Trails
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.
