Atlanta may not be a port city, but that doesn't mean we don't have plenty of waterfront areas to explore. Yes, most of these spots are near creeks rather than rivers, but we think they deliver the peaceful viewing experience that makes waterside spaces so alluring.

Our real estate agents have been itching to get away to their favorite trails around the city, and plan to make the most of the warmer weather. Walk with us as we travel five trails with water views.

5 Trails with Waterfront Views in Atlanta, GA 

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve Outer Loop Trail 

Address: 2852 Cascade Road, Atlanta, GA 30311 

The Cascade Springs Nature Preserve Outer Loop Trail is a 1.8-mile circuit that takes hikers around the reserve it's named after. You can see the serene South Utoy Creek from many spots along the path.

This is one of the best trails around town for sightseeing, offering unique points of interest like: 

• A historic stone spring house nestled in a sunken stone pavilion 
• An old wooden pump house that has been reclaimed by nature 
• A small waterfall that runs over a three-tiered rocky ridge 
• Old Civil War trenches and fortifications

It's an easy trail with little elevation gain, but the path isn't paved and can be hard to spot when covered by leaves. Bring a map with you and make sure you'll have enough daylight left to navigate safely. 

West Palisades Trail 

Address: 3700 Akers Drive, Atlanta, GA 30339 

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area's West Palisades Trail is flanked by two highways, but you'd never know it from looking at it. Stretching on for just under 4 miles, this trail north of our Atlanta homes for sale runs right next to the roaring Chattahoochee River. Look out for: 

• A short section of wooden boardwalk that crosses over wetlands teeming with wildlife 
• Flowering dogwood trees
• Several scenic overlooks to watch the rushing river

There are a handful of steeper areas on the path and a total elevation gain of around 600 feet, but it's nothing too challenging for hikers who come prepared. The recreation area charges a $5 entry fee per vehicle.  

Blueway Trail 

Address: 4055 Roswell Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30342 

Blueway Trail is part of the Blue Heron Nature Preserve, a local wildlife area southeast of Chastain Park. The 3-mile path connects all four biomes in the park: the wetlands, the woodlands, the meadows, and the edges of Nancy Creek. There are also dozens of animal species living near the trail.

There's even an observation blind you can use to get a better view of the critters without disturbing them. The preserve is open every day from dawn to dusk and is free to visit.

Chastain Park Trail 

Address: 140 Chastain Park Avenue NW, Atlanta, GA 30342 

Chastain Park Trail runs through Atlanta's most popular public park, covering just over 3 miles of green space on its largest loop. The path intersects with Nancy Creek at several points and passes by some smaller tributaries and a fish-filled pond. Some other amenities you can enjoy during your visit include: 

• A playground 
• An equestrian center
• Tennis courts 
• A golf course 
• Swimming pools

The ground is paved and mostly flat, with plenty of rest stops and free parking available.  

Morningside Nature Trail 

Address: 2020 Lenox Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 

The Morningside Nature Trail offers 1.7 miles of easy walking paths through Morningside Nature Preserve, a marvelously untamed green space just minutes away from the city's downtown. Here, you'll feel like you're walking through a jungle. The trail has two key features: 

• A wooden suspension bridge running over Peachtree Creek 
• A stretch of beach to enjoy

Visit the preserve and walk the trail for free anytime during daylight hours.

Make Atlanta Your Home Today 

Atlanta's lush natural spaces are just one of the many things we love about this gem of a city. Want to find out what else it has in store for you? Contact us for details on all of our premium local home listings and take your first steps toward your new life here in the City in a Forest.