Stone Mountain Park Activities Recreation & Golf Nature Gardens Hiking TrailOverview of Nature Gardens Hiking TrailGet ready to explore and appreciate the wonders of the natural world on the captivating Nature Gardens Trail. This family-friendly Nature Gardens hiking trail offers a blend of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and a welcoming atmosphere suitable for all ages. Traverse an easy, dirt-tread path through beautiful gardens filled with a variety of plants, flowers, and trees. Along the trail, you will come across informative signs that provide educational information about the plants, trees, and wildlife found in the area.The Nature Gardens Trail is also home to a diverse range of wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, butterflies, small mammals, and other creatures that inhabit the area. The trail may provide opportunities for observing and appreciating these animals in their natural habitat. To take a break and enjoy some family time, you can find designated picnic areas and benches along the trail. These spots provide a convenient place to rest, have a snack or a meal, and appreciate the natural surroundings. Nature gardens showcase the beauty of each season. Depending on the time of year, you can expect to see different flowers in bloom, changing foliage colors, or migratory birds passing through the area. Each season brings its own unique charm to the hiking experience of Stone Mountain Park’s Nature Gardens Trail.Trail InformationDownload Nature Gardens Hiking Trail Map PDFDistance: ¾ mileDuration: 20 minutesDifficulty: Easy, family-friendlyFeatures:Embark on a delightful journey along the Nature Gardens Trail, a captivating loop that takes you through a mature oak-hickory forest community. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you stroll through this scenic trail, surrounded by towering trees and a rich diversity of plant life. This trail is especially renowned for offering excellent opportunities to view shade-loving native plants in their natural habitat. As you begin your adventure, you’ll be greeted by a small garden area at the entrance, adorned with interpretive signs that provide valuable insights into the native plants you’ll encounter along the way. Parking and Trailhead AccessTo access the Nature Gardens Trail, you’ll need to park at one of two convenient locations within Stone Mountain Park:Nature Gardens Trail Parking Lot: The Nature Gardens Trail Parking Lot is located on Robert E. Lee Blvd, just past the South Woods Gate. You will pass the Walk-Up Trail Parking Lot on your left, followed by the Nature Trail Parking Lot on your right. There is a pedestrian crosswalk that connects the parking lot to the trailhead of the Nature Trail. Directions to Nature Gardens Trail Parking LotMemorial Hall Parking Lot: The Memorial Hall Parking Lot offers an alternative way to reach the Nature Gardens Trail through one of the Connector Trails. Follow the clearly marked path from this parking lot along the Connector Trail to reach the Nature Gardens Trail. Directions to Memorial Hall Parking Lotpurchase parkingTrail Rules and RegulationsTo ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, please observe the following rules and regulations:Stay on designated trails and do not create new pathsKeep pets on a leash at all timesDispose of trash properly and leave no traceRespect other hikers and yield to uphill trafficHow to Prepare For Your HikeNecessary GearWear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Choose sturdy and comfortable footwear, such as hiking boots or athletic shoes with good traction. You may also bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and potential bug bites.Safety TipsStick to designated hiking trails and follow any posted signs or markers. Straying off the trail can lead to getting lost or causing damage to the environment. Take breaks as needed and hike at a comfortable pace. Let others know of your whereabouts, and always try to hike with a buddy.Weather ConsiderationsCheck the weather forecast and pay attention to the time of year. Georgia summers are often hot and humid, with mild winters. Temperatures can vary depending on the time of day you visit. You may opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics, and dress in layers to adjust to changing weather conditions.Nature Gardens Trail FAQsIs the Nature Gardens Trail suitable for young children?Yes, the Nature Gardens Trail at Stone Mountain Park is a great place to visit with young children. This short trail spans less than 1 mile and is perfect for little ones to explore. The trail is also conveniently located a short distance from the Playground area.Are there restroom facilities along the Nature Gardens Trail?The nearest restrooms to the Nature Gardens Trail are located in the Stone Mountain Playground area.Are there picnic spots along the Nature Gardens Trail?Yes, there are a few picnic spots along the Nature Gardens Trail. There are also picnic areas available under a covered pavilion in the Playground area.Does the Nature Gardens Trail connect to other Stone Mountain Park hiking trails?Yes, there are three Connector Trails along the Nature Gardens Trail that are clearly identified with trailhead markings and connect this trail to the Cherokee Trail, the Walk-Up Trail, and the PATH Foundation Trail.Can I bring a stroller to the Nature Gardens Trail?Strollers are not recommended on the Nature Gardens Trail due to the dirt tread and uneven terrain.More Stone Mountain Park Hikes to Enjoy Recreation & Golf RecreationWalk-Up Trail to Top of Stone MountainWhile on top, 1,683 feet above sea level, enjoy amazing views of downtown Atlanta, the North Georgia mountains and the surrounding area. On a haze-free day, you can see 60 miles from the mountain. More Details RecreationHiking TrailsStone Mountain Park features 15 miles of hiking and walking trails with varying degrees of difficulty. Enjoy the 5-mile trail around the base, the 1-mile trail to the summit and more! More Details RecreationWalk, Jog or BikeWalkers, joggers, and bicyclists can circle the mountain on a 5 mile loop. Motor vehicle traffic is one-way on the back side of the mountain with wide, dedicated lanes for jogging and biking. More Details A FAMILY VACATION DESTINATIONThe Best Things To Do In Atlanta Are At Stone Mountain Park!Explore a wide variety of fun family activities, exciting seasonal events and more at the home of the best things to do in the Atlanta, Georgia area.Plan Your VisitDiningFrom full service restaurants to quick-service concessions, Stone Mountain Park offers a wide variety of locations where you can fill your stomach and quench your thirst.Explore MoreShoppingStone Mountain Park is home to a variety of unique shops featuring handmade crafts and signature souvenirs for every member of the family.Explore MoreFestivals & EventsDon’t miss exciting annual events at Stone Mountain Park like the Yellow Daisy Festival, Pumpkin Festival: Play by Day, Glow by Night, Stone Mountain Christmas and more! With something every season, there’s always plenty of things to do in Atlanta at Stone Mountain Park.Explore More
