Henry county offers numerous trails to enjoy a leisurely stroll in nature or a sweat-inducing jog. Walking and jogging are among of the best exercises for our bodies using all muscle groups, working the heart, and building balance. Nature hikes can also instill an appreciation of nature and the environment.
Whether a half mile stroll or a three-mile trek, walking outdoors has innumerable benefits for clear minds, strong hearts, and togetherness. Where are you planning to take a walk?
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Where to Hit the Trails in Henry County
Alexander Park at 300 Atlanta St in McDonough is a great option for those who prefer walking on a paved trail. The mile-long paved walk is a great trail for walks and bike rides.
The Bushy Art Trail is a whimsical trail of creative picnic tables, for squirrels. Created by the Georgia’s Artist Consortium, co-chairs Greg Horton of BarnBeautiful and Koren Conrad of The Creativity Café say the purpose is to encourage more public art, enhance public spaces and showcase our talented local artists. Each table has its own story to tell and you can find them in parks and public spaces throughout the county. Check out this Bushy Trail map to find the spots.
Cubihatcha Outdoor Education Center at 100 Collins Road in Locust Grove has 1000 acres of protected wetlands and upplan. Visitors can take in the natural landscape along the trails that travel throughout the Cubihatcha Outdoor Education Center.
The Decastro Trail Head in Stockbridge accesses the Rockdale River Trail which offers a beautiful natural escape through neighboring Rockdale County. The trail is hilly and winding as it goes through heavily forested areas and rock outcroppings. It crosses several creeks and wetland areas.
Heritage Park is a public park in McDonough at 99 Lake Dow Rd. It is a local favorite with a concert arena, a replica 1820s village, a military monument & museum, trails and more.
McCurry Park 80 McDonough Rd, Fayetteville, GA 30214 has McCurry Park North is a 1.1 mile loop trail located near Fayetteville, Georgia that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels.
The Newlands Wetland Center in Hampton is located at 2755 Freeman Rd and features a raised ½-mile boardwalk and crushed stone path dotted with interpretative signs help those new to wetlands understand their importance to the overall ecology and wildlife of the state. Two other more primitive hiking trails detour away from the main path for an even more naturalistic experience. The center also offers programs and hands on educational opportunities.
Panola Mountain State Park, located at 2620 Georgia 155 SW in Stockbridge, is the place to go to enjoy wildlife and scenery on a mountain trail. The park includes long trails with moderate inclines and declines for biking and hiking. There is a 1.7-mile trail around the lake. Guided hikes are available at various times. Parking is $5.
Reeves Creek Trail in Stockbridge spans three miles, winding along Reeves Creek. The trailhead begins on Flippen Road and extends to Memorial Park with access at either end. Parking is available at both sites. Exercise equipment is also located at the Flippen Road entrance for runners and walkers to warm up prior to hitting the trail.
Salem Park at 1724 GA-155 N in McDonough features a scenic, well-marked walking trail and pond.
Where to Hit the Trails in Butts County
High Falls State Park at 76 High Falls Park Drive in Jackson. It has the tallest cascading waterfall south of Atlanta. Visitors can hike along the river’s edge and through hilly forest to the remains of a hydroelectric power plant foundation left over from when the town was a bustling industrial center in the 19th century.
Indian Springs State Park is a 528-acre Georgia state park located near Jackson and Flovilla. The park is named for its several springs, which the Creek Indians used for centuries to heal the sick.
Where to Hit the Trails in Spalding County
Quarry's Edge Park at 901 W. Quilly Street in Griffin has numerous trails around the quarry for hiking, mountain biking, and bouldering. The quarry is the site of many shows on the small and big screen including The Walking Dead, The Vampire Diaries, Stranger Things, Hunger Games, and more.
 Safety is important when walking outdoors. Make sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, a bottle of water, your charged cell phone, and a light snack if you get light-headed. Have you heard? The Fanny pack is back! It is a great way to carry the essentials. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes appropriate for the terrain. It is also a good idea to bring a whistle or personal safety device. |
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