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Big Creek Greenway

5
·4 reviews·, United States

A sprawling 26+ mile greenway offering paved paths and boardwalks for walking, running, and biking amidst nature.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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From bridge on greenway

Big Creek Greenway

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling 26+ mile greenway offering paved paths and boardwalks for walking, running, and biking amidst nature.

5
(4 reviews)

"Be one with nature ..walking down this greenway is a stress reliever."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The greenway is perfect for long walks, runs, or bike rides. Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying the 26 miles!

🗺️ Plan Your Route

With over 26 miles, know where you're going. Wayfinding signs help, but a map is useful for longer excursions .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mansell Boardwalk

Mansell Boardwalk

Alpharetta section

Experience a newly upgraded, sturdy concrete and steel boardwalk, replacing older wooden sections for improved accessibility and safety.

Forsyth County Trail

Forsyth County Trail

Forsyth County section

Explore the northern stretches of the greenway, offering beautiful scenery and a continuous path for outdoor enthusiasts.

Alpharetta Wayfinding

Alpharetta Wayfinding

Alpharetta section

Utilize new wayfinding signs and QR codes for an interactive map, making navigation along the 9-mile Alpharetta portion seamless .

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Lengthy Trail

The Big Creek Greenway spans over 26 miles, offering a vast network for walking, running, and biking. Plan your route in advance, as sections can be quite long. Wayfinding signs and QR codes are available to help navigate the extensive path.Instagram

Trail Conditions & Upgrades

While generally well-maintained, some older sections of the boardwalk have been upgraded to concrete and steel for better accessibility and safety.Instagram Check for any ongoing maintenance or closures before your visit, especially in Forsyth County sections.Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Popular for families and groups
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Explore Big Creek Greenway📍 You won’t skip a beat in your exploration along the Big Creek Greenway with the new wayfinding signs! Thanks to our partnership with the @cityofalpharetta, a wayfinding signage program was created to include directional markers and a QR code activated interactive map making your time exploring all 9-miles of the #AwesomeAlpharetta portion of the Greenway Trail easy and...
awesomealpharetta
336 likes • 11.1K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The greenway is perfect for long walks, runs, or bike rides. Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying the 26 miles! Instagram

🗺️ Plan Your Route

With over 26 miles, know where you're going. Wayfinding signs help, but a map is useful for longer excursions.Instagram

Big changes are coming to North Point Alpharetta! 🌳🚲 New trails, green space, and a direct Big Creek Greenway connection are officially approved. This transformation is set to make the area more walkable, bikeable, and community-focused. Do you think this is a step in the right direction for Alpharetta? 👇 🍑 Be sure to follow @sarahmaslowski for the latest on local developments, real estate, thin...
sarahmaslowski
892 likes • 45.5K views
🎉 Today, we celebrated a significant milestone for the Big Creek Greenway in Alpharetta with the opening of the Mansell Boardwalk! This long-awaited upgrade has transformed 1,200 feet of deteriorating wood boardwalk into a sturdy concrete and steel trail, improving accessibility and safety for all trail users.👨‍🦽🏃‍♀️🚴‍♂️🌳 The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official connection between the Beav...
alpharettaparks
500 likes • 35.3K views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water for your journey along the extensive trail system.

🚴 Bike or Run

Ideal for cycling and running, the paved and boardwalk paths offer a smooth ride for all skill levels.Instagram+1

In this edition of On the Move, @forsythcoparksandrec Director Kirk Franz discusses improvements coming to the Big Creek Greenway between mile markers 8.5 (Bethelview Trailhead) and 10.3 (Kelly Mill Road). The renovations will restore this portion of the Greenway to a safe, durable and accessible condition that will serve residents for many years to come. All other sections of the Big Creek Gre...
forsythcountyga
37 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The greenway is perfect for long walks, runs, or bike rides. Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying the 26 miles! Instagram

🗺️ Plan Your Route

With over 26 miles, know where you're going. Wayfinding signs help, but a map is useful for longer excursions.Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water for your journey along the extensive trail system.

🚴 Bike or Run

Ideal for cycling and running, the paved and boardwalk paths offer a smooth ride for all skill levels.Instagram+1

☀️ Enjoy the Nature

It's a great stress reliever and a way to connect with nature, offering a peaceful escape.Instagram

What Travellers Say

5
(4 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Big Creek Greenway as a fantastic stress reliever and a great place for walking and running. The extensive trail system offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. While generally well-maintained, some older sections are undergoing upgrades.

"Be one with nature ..walking down this greenway is a stress reliever"

Perumal Babu

"Great place to walk."

Nesim Bekaroglu

"Good running track!"

pragnesh virani

What People Like

Great for walking
Stress reliever
Good running track

What People Dislike

Some older sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Big Creek Greenway has multiple access points across Alpharetta and Forsyth County. Popular trailheads include those at Mansell Road, North Point Park, and various points in Forsyth County. Check local park listings for specific trailhead locations and parking availability.Instagram+1

Yes, most designated trailheads offer parking. However, parking can fill up quickly on weekends and during peak hours, so arriving early is recommended.

Public transportation options are limited directly to the trailheads. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the various access points.

Many sections, especially the newer boardwalks and paved paths, are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some older or unpaved sections might be more challenging.

Restroom facilities are available at some of the larger park access points and trailheads, particularly in Alpharetta. It's advisable to check specific park amenities before your visit.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Big Creek Greenway is a public park and is free to access. There are no admission fees required to use the trails.

The greenway is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific park hours for trailheads may vary, so it's best to check with the respective city or county parks department.

No booking or reservations are necessary. The greenway is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.

For organized group events or large gatherings, it's advisable to contact the local parks and recreation department to inquire about any necessary permits or reservations.

The greenway is typically closed after dark for safety reasons. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours.

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The greenway is perfect for walking, jogging, running, cycling, and enjoying nature. It's a popular spot for both casual recreation and more serious training.Instagram+2

Many users find the greenway safe, especially during daylight hours and in well-trafficked areas. However, as with any trail, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially during early mornings or evenings.Reddit

Dogs are generally allowed on the Big Creek Greenway but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet.

Benches are available along various points of the trail for resting. Some larger park areas may have picnic tables, but dedicated picnic spots directly on the trail are less common.

The terrain is mostly paved asphalt or boardwalk, making it smooth and accessible. There are some natural surface sections in certain areas.

📸 📸 Photography

The greenway offers scenic views of trees, water, and wildlife. The boardwalk sections, especially during golden hour, provide beautiful photographic opportunities.Instagram

Yes, you might spot various birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife. Early mornings or late afternoons are often best for wildlife viewing and photography.

Drone usage is typically regulated by local ordinances. It's best to check with the Alpharetta or Forsyth County Parks and Recreation departments regarding drone policies.

Late afternoons offer beautiful lighting, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' which can enhance the natural beauty of the greenway.

The Mansell Boardwalk is a notable feature, and the various bridges and natural vistas along the trail provide excellent backdrops.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Big Creek Greenway is a fantastic destination for families. The paved and boardwalk sections are generally stroller-friendly, making it easy for parents to bring young children along for a walk or bike ride.Instagram The expansive nature of the trail offers plenty of space for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Pack snacks and drinks, and consider shorter, accessible sections for younger children. The new wayfinding signs in Alpharetta can also help families plan their outing.Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Solo Runners & Cyclists

For those seeking a long and uninterrupted path for running or cycling, the Big Creek Greenway is ideal. Its extensive length allows for significant mileage without repetitive loops. While generally considered safe, solo female runners have noted the importance of awareness, especially during early morning or late evening hours.Reddit Sticking to well-trafficked areas and utilizing the improved signage can enhance the experience. The smooth surfaces of the paved and boardwalk sections are perfect for training.Instagram+1

🌳 Nature Enthusiasts

The Big Creek Greenway offers a serene natural escape with its tree-lined paths and water features. It's a great place for birdwatching and observing local wildlife. The changing seasons bring different beauty, from lush greenery in the spring and summer to colorful foliage in the fall. The peaceful ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing nature walk or a moment of quiet reflection.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Big Creek Greenway

The Big Creek Greenway is an extensive trail system, stretching over 26 miles and connecting Alpharetta and Forsyth County. This impressive length makes it a prime destination for long-distance runners, cyclists, and walkers. To help visitors navigate this vast network, Alpharetta has implemented new wayfinding signs and QR codes that activate an interactive map, making it easier to explore the 9-mile Alpharetta section.Instagram Planning your route is essential, especially if you aim to cover significant distances or explore specific sections like the newly upgraded Mansell Boardwalk.Instagram

Recent improvements have focused on enhancing accessibility and durability. The Mansell Boardwalk, for instance, has been transformed from deteriorating wood into a sturdy concrete and steel structure, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for all users.Instagram Forsyth County is also undertaking renovations in certain areas to maintain the trail's condition.Instagram These ongoing efforts ensure that the Big Creek Greenway remains a premier outdoor recreation spot for years to come, connecting communities through nature and promoting an active lifestyle.Instagram+1

Community and Connectivity

The Big Creek Greenway is more than just a trail; it's a vital community asset that fosters connection and well-being. It serves as a popular spot for individuals seeking a peaceful escape, a place to de-stress, and a venue for exercise and healthy living.Instagram The trail is frequently used by families, runners, and cyclists, creating a vibrant atmosphere, particularly on weekends.Instagram

Future plans aim to further enhance the greenway's connectivity. Initiatives are underway to complete the final connections, potentially creating a continuous 26-mile path that ties communities together through nature.Instagram This vision underscores the greenway's role in promoting walkability, bikeability, and a more community-focused environment, making it a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.Instagram

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