My body needed this work out since it's been forever since I did this. Overdue and well deserving for my body. Easy & convenient parking for hikers. While nervous, it was a no breeze hike following one of the ladies navigation. Starting out going (LEFT) on the trials, the hike round trip took 4mins (round trip) even after we took a wrong loop. Thank God only animals we seen were the 's NOT an , , nor . Thank God NEW Pro: There is now a restroom which is smarter than people so, be sure to bring your cell so, you can scan the code for entry. CON: As a aquaphile, was disappointed that there was no beautiful big waterfall. read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

A beautiful nature escape, in the heart of ATL. Location and Parking Located on Cascade Road, parking is plentiful and free. If you do go on the weekends, make sure to arrive early as the parking can fill up fast. Venue and Atmosphere The great outdoors await; enjoy the mostly paved path along the creek to a peaceful waterfall. The trail continues slightly uphill and winds through the park with beautiful foliage and more creek views. Aside from the incline, the trail is relatively easy. The waterfall wasn't very full but that of course depends on the rain level, and the past month was a dry one. It was still lovely! Verdict I'll definitely visit again! read more

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I've lived in the area for years but had never visited the preserve. I had a great time spending a beautiful day in nature. The hiking trails aren't overly difficult, with portions of it being relatively level and others with some incline. There are beautiful water ways nearby and a lovely waterfall. There is a parking lot with ample parking, a water fountain and benches right at the beginning of the trail. Fun time all around. read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Waterfall - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

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Upon my inaugural hiking experience, I found immense enjoyment in the activity. Arriving at around 8 a.m., I noticed that only a few individuals were present. The trail, spanning approximately 1.5 miles, proved to be just the right length. The tranquil stream and waterfall provided the calm and serenity I was seeking. Furthermore, the trail is suitable for both dogs and children. Without a doubt, I plan on revisiting this location. The healing power of nature is truly remarkable. read more

Nice hiking trail nestled off Cascade Road. Ample parking although it can get packed on the weekends which most folks park in the neighborhood. I love this park. There's a gorgeous waterfall in the park with huge rocks to sit and just listen to the water. Perfect for journaling too. read more

A hidden gem among the hustle and bustle of Atlanta! I spotted this park on Google maps and since we had finished a large brunch, we were looking for a nice walk we could do to help us digest. This park is like a forest escape in the middle of a city. It's really peaceful with some small waterfalls, different trails, hills, and wildlife. I will say that there are some interesting characters in the parking lot and I wouldn't necessarily come to the park alone. Don't let that stop you though- bring a group and enjoy a picnic or nice walk for a mini dose of nature in the city. read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

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Amazing place to go and explore nature. I've passed this place my entire life and never realized how beautiful it was. Definitely will go again read more

This place is a hidden gem. There are so many cool perks about this park. There's a place to get married, there's a waterfall and their are cool trails to venture off too. Words can't really express how well thought out this place is read more

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This park is in the middle of the city, just a turn away from the busy city life. While parking you can see all kinds of shady characters, ladies in questionable dresses being dropped off while cars speed off the parking lot, people disappearing into the woods... just shady. The signs at the park entrance does not help it either to let you know you are in a bad part of town. The waterfalls are about a 7 minute walk from the parking lot. Once you get to the waterfalls you find more shady characters laying on the rocks, rolling their smokes and getting fidgety once they see you are taking pictures. Park is dirty with trash everywhere. There is also a shack along the trail that I can guarantee is used as a stash house and to conduct some occasional transactions. Definitely do not come here alone or late afternoon. read more

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The waterfall isn't as nice as expected but it is used as a shrine. Very nice place to walk in the city though, nice beautiful trails where you won't get lost in. There are hills so bring water and comfy shoes! There were a good number of people there but we barely crossed paths with anyone so it was nice! It is a free park with a decent amount of parking. read more

This was nice as my first trail (03/27/2020). It's great for beginners. There is a small area for picnicking. My companions and I noticed fruit and money in the water, which we concluded were offerings to the Yoruba Goddess Oshun. read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

I'm giving this 4 of 5 mostly due to it's tranquil feel and how much I enjoyed the walk. If you are looking for a nature-hike while not having to venture far from an in-town starting location, this is a good target venue. It is located on Cascade Road a couple of miles inside 285. There are no amenities on site (restrooms, etc.) so plan accordingly. The parking lot is gravel. The overall feel of the park is of semi-neglect. There are boardwalks and trails, but they are only marginally maintained. Where large trees have fallen onto paths, the paths have been diverted. Where such trees have damaged boardwalks, there are stop-gap plywood repairs. My wish would be that high-dollar, wasteful projects like the pedestrian bridge near MB Stadium ($25+ million) would have been scaled back slightly and $500k or so devoted to places like this. Still, there is nothing profoundly wrong with this venue. Especially after a rain, you should wear hiking boots. If you do, you should have no real issue in navigating the trails within the park. We explored most of what appeared to be the larges loop. We spent a total of an hour inside the park, and enjoyed it. There is a fairly sizable (15 foot) waterfall to observe. The trail is a bit hilly, but easily navigable. When we went (mid-afternoon on Sunday) there were not that many people. We had the trail to ourselves for about 3/4 of the hike. There were occasional other hikers and one guy asleep on a bench along the trail (?), but otherwise it was quite nice. Be prepared to climb over the occasional fallen tree. My only advice would be to come here after a few dry days, so as to avoid any muddy patches. We arrived the day after a rain, so there was definitely a lot of water and mud to get by. But overall, for convenience to the city, this is a nice park. read more

A surprising nature trail right in the heart of west Atlanta. Parking is just enough. The trails are about maybe a mile or two some of its on an incline. I loved the small water fall and creek. This is also the sight of a civil war battle. read more

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This is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Cascade. It was beautifully featured with families, yoga and artist! While the walk wasn't that intense it lead to beautiful trails, a wonderful waterfall and even some hidden clues and hunts. We were able to pass by the classroom and hidden fire house. Waking along the trails you will encounter very friendly and eco-centric people. Everyone was very pleasant and outgoing. I stopped a few times along the way to take in the greenery. While, this may not be the place for many to come if they're looking for a huge waterfall. It is ideal for something local and fun. The kids and I felt very safe walking, there wasn't a trail that I had taken alone that made me feel unsafe. I would recommend wearing off, sunscreen and longer clothing due to poison ivy and bugs. I seen women and families having photo shoots by the water. It wasn't crowded and the area was well kept. I a resident of the area and I am elated to finally have taken an opportunity to visit. I will definitely be coming back read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

I had the most amazing time here! It's an amazing escape from the City! The sounds of nature and water surround you. The areas create with benches to sit and just listen are Beautifully placed. I walked up to a photo shoot happening on the bridge and I took a pic of the model. The fallen trees, roots growing moss and wild mushrooms are amazing. It's just a breathtaking park! read more

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a bit sketch at the trash infested entrance. but once your on your way to the trail it gets better. watch that you don't step on any condoms strewn about. read more

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In the heart of Cascade lies a gem of beautiful nature. Trails vary from wide to narrow, there are really no markers to chart your course, so be cautious. I winded up in a maze of kudzu, heard something and turned back. I wish they would take better care of the grounds but I really did enjoy the falls and creek. Not too many people, so I didn't worry about us social distancing. It was just what I needed on a nice, sunny day. I think we were able to get in 4 miles and the falls, sand and creeks were breathtaking. I definitely will go back for this piece of serenity, right on the city! read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Sandy creek at Cascade Falls - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

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One of my favorite close by locations to connect with nature. My daughter enjoys it just as much as I do. Highly recommend for those who want to go on a little adventure for the day. read more

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Very nice greenspace on the westside. Easy trails and lots of them, interconnecting and it's quite clean except for some trash around the entrance. Not a huge parking lot but probably sufficient for most days, unless there's an event. The entrance from Cascade Rd is not hard to spot but there wasn't any sign warning me coming westbound. The trails are not real well marked. Although I saw signs pointing the direction for the Ridge trail and a few others, it wasn't at all intersections, even those that are on the map (there are trails that aren't on the map). After the short walk to the trailhead junction from the parking lot, hiking clockwise around the Spring, Ridge and Utoy creek trails takes you past the old pumphouse (which looks like a shrine), the Cascade waterfall (where Turkeyfoot Creek water exits a drainage canal under Cascade Rd), some nice Georgia urban forest and then along serene Utoy Creek. You'll also pass a spot where you'll find benches and what seems to be a pulpit, and a larger picnic spot not too far from the start of the loop at the pumphouse/trailhead junction. The loop is about two miles total, give or take. You can also take the Terrace trail or complete the Spring trail loop. You have options. There is not a whole lot of elevation change anywhere, so unless you walk fast or hike every inch of trail, Cascade Springs is not a hard workout. However, the trail surfaces are generally very good - not many ankle twisters. The path to the trailhead junction and to the picnic area to the right is very flat. I saw some evidence of park upkeep but not a lot. It doesn't need much as long as people treat the land right. Several large trees have fallen across the trails and remain uncut, some for quite a while it seems. Elsewhere, you'll see where the fallen trees have been cut so I guess it's a matter of resources. None of the fallen trees were impassable by any means. A watershed non-profit organization - the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance - has tasked itself with preserving and protecting this park (among others). Note that Cascade Springs is part of the City of Atlanta park system. In sum, a very nice urban greenspace with some interesting and scenic trails. Plus it can support a fair amount of picnicking activity. Some have described it as 'spooky' and I suppose it can seem that way if you're alone. I saw only one other person (and his dog) on a pleasant late Friday morning. Recommended. read more

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It was very beautiful and clean! It was easy to find and navigate the park. The views were also amazing!!!

Went here this past Sunday to help remedy my SAD (seasonal affective disorder). I'm happy that this place did the trick, even though I did get lost. The parking lot is rough, but it's not that bad and the best part is that it's free! There were a number of other cars in the lot so I felt like it was safe. I did the Ridge Trail and had pulled up the map on my google maps app on my phone (I got the map from: https://www.atlantatrails.com/hiking-trails/cascade-springs-nature-preserve/) but I still got lost. Heads up, the GPS on my phone wasn't very accurate within the preserve. My biggest issue with the preserve is that there are a number of intersecting trails that aren't marked with a sign to point you in the right direction. I ended up getting lost, but was able to find my way out pretty easily. The falls are really cool (but definitely looks bigger in pictures) and its pretty close to the lot so you don't have to hike/nature walk to get there. Also, the preserve was pretty clean, so no complaints there. Oh! I should note that I went hiking/nature walking solo with my dog and never felt unsafe the entire time I was there. I did get some nice time alone with nature, but at the same time I crossed paths with enough people to know that there was someone nearby in case something happened. As we were exiting about ~30 minutes before sundown/closing, they close the gate to the lot. For a minute I thought I was locked in for the night, but luckily some savvy people drove up to the gate and I saw it open for them automatically. To summarize: - Nice, dog-friendly, nature preserve for some easy nature walking. - Free parking! Gate closes at 6:00 PM during the winter and 7:30 in summer. - Ridge trail is ~1.9 mile easy walk. The trails aren't always clearly labeled so you might want to budget time if you have a tendency getting lost (like me!) read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

Such an awesome hidden gem in the city! I've hiked this several times since discovering it. It's a great escape that doesn't take hours to get to. People & staff have done a great job keeping it clean. Not a hard trail to walk. You can choose to be challenged by some hills by going up a trail or going around on the flat trails. There's benches on the outer trails to chill and a cool waterfall you can climb! Gated entry which closes around 545 for entry. To get in after this point you have to wait for someone to come out. Park closes at 730. I don't think it's big enough to visit if you're an out of towner but definitely a local. Seems like many people don't know about this so this post is bitter sweet lol I would like to add that I did not feel unsafe while hiking. I was able to get some good solo time in with nature but crossed paths or saw others thru the trees to know that I wasn't alone & could yell IF something happened. I've seen families, couples, solos, & pet owners hike these trails. With any parking lot lock your doors & hide your valuables. That's just common sense. read more

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As far as waterfalls go, this wasn't it! However, it was a short, cute walk around the preserve. If your looking for grande vistas and high elevations, again, this ain't it. read more

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Nice nature walk just outside Atlanta. Good for kids. Adding to our list for quick weekend hikes!

Cool easy peaceful walk. I expected more from the waterfall. I also wish there were more signage. However I enjoyed the time with nature and I love this tree. read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Don't watch me watch the tree - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

Nice hide away in the Cascade area! The total hike was about 3.24 miles around the preserve. The environment was peaceful and quiet. It was muddy. The waterfall... well I was expecting something a little lore but it was nice. Will definitely visit again. read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Sign on the hiking trail! - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

I do not remember how I came across Cascade Springs Nature Preserve. All I know is that I was so surprised that it's not in North Georgia. Just several miles southwest of Atlanta is Cascade Springs Nature Preserve! I Googled some photos online and was impressed so I haaaad to check it out. Honesty, it is not hard to find but the sign doesn't stand out. It's like they want to keep a hidden gem away from the public. Parking lot is small so come early! There is a map that is posted before you take the trail. Up front, you do see a cute little house. There were bench tables around there. Rest area already? There are no signs of anything. I took a chance and just kept going right. I figure that it will eventually loop around. So I kept going right and ended up no where. So where is this waterfall that I saw in photos? Because the trail never really ends, I did just kept going but I should've stopped where there were actually more grass and then it picked up again. That's why I kept going. I did see a "Do Not Trespass" sign but I didn't listen cause the trail didn't end and was walking alongside the creek. I had to find this waterfall. So it eventually ends cause I couldn't go anymore so I backtracked. I remembered seeing a trail going uphill. The incline is easy and not strenuous. It loops around and yes, I kept going right. I finally see other people! But they were walking towards me! On the trail, there are lots of dead trees and many have fallen, even knocking out other trees. One huge fallen tree blocked the trail and the roots were up high. It look like it has been down for a long time. There's a trail to go around it too. When I finally see the waterfall, it is small but nice. I just love waterfalls anyways. It was small but a nice view. Then walked a little away and back to the beginning. What??? I should've went left all that time, instead I went right SMH. My thoughts. Since I took the longer way, it is like 3 miles. I didn't even see the middle trail next to the cute little house. What!?! Oh well. You could easily feel like you're lost in a forest but there's enough people who come hiking. Go the left way, not right way first. When going the way I did, I did see signs that were facing the opposite way. Overall, easy trails with some hills, no huge incline, close to the city. 37/2017 read more

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Looking for a respite from the bustle of the city? Cascade Springs Nature Preserve is a literal breath of fresh air. Be warned the waterfall may not look as picturesque as envisioned, and depending on the time of year it may be more trickle than full fledged nature encounter. There is also a gate at the top preventing any awe-inspiring feelings of being immersed in the great outdoors. That being said, the trails wind through the forest, the old springhouse bears its own charm, and you can enjoy a bit of Atlanta history along the "heritage trail." The paths are fairly easy and walkable, with little risk of getting lost. So come for a stroll with a four legged friend, plan a picnic, or just to enjoy a sprightly jaunt along the stream, this park definitely makes for a refreshing dose of serenity. read more

This preserve is probably one of Atlanta's most precious hidden secrets. Not many people know about this park but most of us who do, love it. However, the quality and upkeep of the park is quickly declining. Vandalism and theft are becoming more frequent on the premises. Fallen trees are making it harder and harder to access parts of the trails throughout the park. I personally just don't feel as safe as I used to. Hopefully, things will turn around. This used to be the most peaceful place in Atlanta. read more

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I never knew this was here! Very peaceful place and I found a few interesting things there as well. We sat on the rocks in the water and mediated. read more

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This is a gem hidden within the perimeter. Serene, easy hiking. The trails aren't difficult but they are lovely. Very well kept and easy to follow. The Creek is lovely to walk alongside. Make sure to watch for the monolithic rocks that scatter the landscape. This has fast become on of my favorite nature areas inside the perimeter. read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

I decided to go to Cascade Springs Nature Preserve today for a Memorial Day picnic and hike. I'm so glad I finally checked this place out after (literally) living around the corner from it for 5+ years (tsk tsk). I was surprised to learn how large an area the nature preserve covers. There are several trails of varying difficulty and and slightly varying elevations. Someone mentioned that the trails were color coded. However, I didn't see any noticeable coding (probably never looked in the right spots). There are benches and picnic tables at random points around the trail and near the parking area. The reserve is pet friendly as long as the animal is on a leash. This is an awesome green-space get away if you just need some time in the woods without leaving the city . read more

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Very peaceful and clean. Great meditation and relaxation location with a trail. Waterfall is beautiful. read more

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Beautiful nature preserve. A lot of land to explore and many paths that are easy to get lost on. Cool rock formations and ancient trees. Overall, a nice hike away from the city but in an interesting neighborhood. read more

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I absolutely love this place. It is truly a hidden gem. I've lived in Atlanta several years and just discovered this place. It's beautiful and the trails are fairly easy. I wish there were more signs to guide visitors through the preserve. Overall great experience and I will definitely be back!!! read more

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This nature walk is in the southwest part of Atlanta on Cascade road. It's an awesome trail because everyone can do it and you can choose the length you want to go as their our multiple routes. There is also a waterfall! Small but awesome to see and relax by in the city. Since the first time I went 2 years ago they have expanded the trails so yesterday I did a loop of about 3.5 miles. But you can also do the shorter loop of like 1.5 miles! It's great for everyone including kids, dogs, and adults of any age. They have a parking lot at the entrance which advises to lock all doors and secure valuables. I have never heard of break ins there but better be safe. Come and enjoy this nature walk you won't regret it. read more

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Very crowded, dirty, fruit all in the water. Unkept. Parking lot security, parking lot vendors

This place is great if you really want a nice peaceful walk or would like to enjoy conversation with family or friends. The waterfall here is cool, but didn't really like how someone left a whole bunch of uneaten fresh fruit near the waterfall. What a waste of good groceries . read more

Very relaxed & peaceful place. More than enough parking. Some of the trails are a little muddy and can be very slippery after the rain, but that's to be expected. Some of the trails are blocked by fallen trees, but can be accessible again by just walked around of going over the tree. All in all the spot is pretty nice and will give you a pretty decent workout!! read more

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Waterfall is epic! - Parks Near Me - Atlanta, Georgia

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After the track we usually walk on was crowded today, we decided to try another track and that was also kinda crowded. So, my wife had the idea that we check out the Nature Preserve. The Preserve is literally around the corner from our house, we pass it every day yet had never checked it out. Well, today we were very pleasantly surprised. PROS: We hiked for about a mile and a half, saw a couple interesting sites like large rocks perfect for climbing, a couple bridges, a creek and a lectern with benches that looked like a little school/church in the woods which was interesting. But after all that, we figured we'd seen it all and we actually walked back to the beginning of the trail ready to leave. When we got out to the parking lot though we decided to check the "hiking guide" one last time to see if we missed anything major. Boy, did we! We missed the waterfalls! So we decided to go back and take another trail until we found the falls (which are not far from the entrance of the park). Finding the falls made our day! It was so beautiful and peaceful. There's a picnic bench on the hill across from the falls if you just want to sit and watch them from afar (great date idea) but you could also climb into the falls and sit on the rocks right next to them. It was GREAT! Be careful because I slipped and fell in HAHA but we had such a great time that it was worth it. CONS: I will say, the park is not well manicured (it's free to the public so maybe they don't have the money?) and the trails are not well marked so you just kinda wander around not knowing where you're going but, it's a big loop so you can't really get lost. Also, all the info plaques that are supposed to give you information on the landmarks you're seeing were empty so you had to guess or remember what you read (if you read) on the park sign before you came in. Yeah, for the most part, it just looks like you're wandering in the woods without much aim and it can get a little creepy-feeling because it's pretty secluded. When we first got there,we were pretty much walking along but by the time we left there were a few families and people with their dogs that joined us. I'm so ashamed to say that this place has been literally ten minutes away from my house all this time and I never checked it out. We'll be back though! read more

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