4.7
(6386)
10,002
hikers
00:39
2.44km
20m
Hiking
The Southtowne Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a mix of wooded areas, quiet neighborhoods, and the peaceful Swann Nature Preserve, all on a mostly paved surface with some boardwalks. You'll find yourself winding along the South River, catching glimpses of a golf course, and crossing a spectacular bridge over a tributary within the preserve, providing a real sense of getting away from it all.
Planning your visit to the Southtowne Trail is straightforward; it's located south of downtown Atlanta and requires no permits or fees. Parking is typically available near South Bend Park, which serves as a convenient trailhead. This accessible route is perfect for a quick outing, whether you're a beginner, hiking with family, or just seeking a short, refreshing walk.
This 1.5-mile (2.4 km) route, with a minimal 79 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and can be completed in about 39 minutes. It's a notable part of a larger network of paths, connecting residents to recreational sites like South Bend Park and the Rosel Fann Recreation Center, making it a valuable community asset for outdoor activity.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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2.44 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.28 km
160 m
Surfaces
2.13 km
257 m
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Elevation
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Wednesday 15 July
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Southtowne Trail connects to South Bend Park and the Rosel Fann Recreation Center, both of which are good access points. Parking is typically available at these locations.
Yes, the Southtowne Trail is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.
The trail offers beautiful Georgia scenery year-round. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer can be warm but still enjoyable, especially in the wooded sections. Winter offers a quieter experience.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Southtowne Trail or South Bend Park. It is a publicly accessible multi-use path. For more information on park facilities, you can check the Atlanta Parks and Recreation website.
The trail primarily features a paved surface, with some sections including boardwalks. It winds through wooded areas, quiet residential neighborhoods, and the Swann Nature Preserve, offering views along the South River and glimpses of an adjacent golf course.
Yes, the trail is largely considered 'nice and simple' and is rated as easy. It has a few gradual elevations but nothing strenuous, making it suitable for beginners, families, and a variety of users due to its paved and boardwalk surfaces.
The main section of the Southtowne Trail is approximately 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) long. A typical hike can take around 40 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
The trail is a multi-use PATH designed to connect residents to recreational sites. It links South Bend Park and the Rosel Fann Recreation Center, providing access to amenities. A highlight is a spectacular bridge over a tributary to the South River within the Swann Nature Preserve, where you can 'disappear into nature for a good while'.
Yes, the route is officially known as the Southtowne PATH Trail and is part of a larger network. There are also plans to connect the existing trail to the Atlanta BeltLine, which would further enhance its accessibility and reach.
Yes, the trail connects to South Bend Park and the Rosel Fann Recreation Center. These facilities offer amenities such as a seasonal outdoor pool, an arts and culture center, and indoor recreation activities. The surrounding Lakewood Heights neighborhood may also offer local cafes and restaurants.
Given its primarily paved surface and boardwalk sections, the Southtowne Trail is generally considered accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, offering a smooth experience for most of its length.
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