From a long hike in the wild to short, leisurely strolls, Atlanta abounds with plenty of pet friendly parks and walkways. Whether it’s all about being in nature or taking in the sights, here are the best dog walking routes in Atlanta, Georgia. Many of these areas are near beautiful vacation rentals, so you can enjoy a peaceful getaway with your dog.
Walk Your Dog In These 6 Beautiful Atlanta Places
Source: Steve Markos/Flickr CC-BY 2.0
1. Piedmont Park
See and be seen at one of the most famous parks in the city, Atlanta’s “Common Ground” since 1904. Dogs can go off leash in one of the two dog runs at Piedmont Park, or catch Frisbees in the meadow at the south side of the park. Piedmont also has several miles of trail circuits that are perfect for a trek. The park offers several plastic bag-dispensing stations for easy cleanup, as well as ground-level water fountain basins for dogs to use. Piedmont Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and located just 2 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta.
2. Chattahoochee River National Recreational Area
Perfect for those who love to explore, the national recreation area offers an abundance of outdoor activities for the owners, and a plethora of pathways for the pets. Shallow river areas are great for dogs new to the water, and the walking trails provide a variety of options for different scenic views. There’s also a shaded picnic area, a large field and several swimming holes within the recreation space. Retreat to this beautiful corner of the earth for quality time with your pets. Entrance is free, but parking costs $3.
3. The Atlanta Beltline
The Atlanta Beltline is a city redevelopment project that will ultimately connect 45 neighborhoods by 33 miles of multi-use trails and 2,000 acres of parks by 2030. At present the beltline is a 22-mile loop of around the city. Pups can walk along the Eastside Trail, which runs from Piedmont Park to the Old Fourth Ward, or the Northside Trail, a 2.4-mile stretch from White Street to Westview Cemetery. Several parks already a part of the loop include Boulevard Crossing Park, a sustainable space that features kudzu-eating goats; Arthur Langford, Jr. Park, Atlanta’s second official skate park; and D.H. Stanton, the city’s first energy-cost neutral park.
4. South Bend Dog Park
Almost a secret gem, even amongst the locals, South Bend is a grassy, hillside dog park with a large and small dog section. It’s rarely crowded, despite having all the perks for the pooches: a toybox, water fountains and even a kiddie pool for those hot summer days. The hilltop location offers a generous view, and a turn on the tree swing will whirl you back to childhood. South Bend Dog Park is an ideal running ground for one wolves, and dog walkers who prefer their space.
5. ParkGrounds
It’s a dog park and coffee shop, combining the best of good food and furry friends. The park has plenty of shaded space for dogs to run and play. The staff are friendly, as are most of the other patrons. If the owners need a pick me up, the cafe sells not just coffee, but food and beer as well. Try an iced coffee on a sunny day, or grab a latte before you head outdoors to watch the dogs at play.
6. Chastain Park
Chastain Park is over 150 acres, making it Atlanta’s largest park. Jogging paths, walking trails, and playgrounds are just a few of the features visitors will find. The park also has tennis courts, a golf course, swimming pool, horse park and an amphitheater. The walking trails are dog friendly, without too much forest cover in the surrounding area. Often filled with Atlanta residents, Chastain Park is a favorite among locals.
This article was written by Hanna Choi.