Ivy Creek Greenway
A serene, paved greenway with picturesque wetlands, a charming old mill, and a waterfall. Perfect for peaceful walks and nature observation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Ivy Creek Greenway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, paved greenway with picturesque wetlands, a charming old mill, and a waterfall. Perfect for peaceful walks and nature observation.
"This place is absolutely gorgeous! The wooden walkway is so peaceful and just beautiful!"
🎯 Park Smartly
Avoid the tricky I-85 exit ramp parking. Opt for shopping center entrances for easier access. :car:
🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Mosquitoes love the wetlands! Pack repellent for a more comfortable experience. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ivy Creek's Waterfall & Old Mill
Along the main trail
Discover a charming waterfall and remnants of an old mill, offering a picturesque glimpse into the past. Perfect for photos!
Scenic Boardwalks & Wetlands
Various points along the trail
Wander along peaceful wooden walkways through lush wetlands, spotting turtles and abundant greenery. A tranquil escape.
Shaded, Paved Walking Paths
Entire length of the greenway
Enjoy a smooth, well-paved trail shaded by trees, ideal for walking, jogging, or biking in comfortable temperatures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hidden Entrances & Parking
Nature's Companions: Bugs & Water
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Part of a old water mill in Gwinnett
🎯 Park Smartly
Avoid the tricky I-85 exit ramp parking. Opt for shopping center entrances for easier access. :car:
🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Mosquitoes love the wetlands! Pack repellent for a more comfortable experience. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
I planted paw paw trees around Suwanee
MorningView subdivision Suwanee
👟 Comfortable Footwear Recommended
The paved trail is great for walking, running, or biking. Consider water shoes if you plan to explore the creek. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls
Leashed dogs are welcome! Your furry friend will love splashing in the creek. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Park Smartly
Avoid the tricky I-85 exit ramp parking. Opt for shopping center entrances for easier access. :car:
🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend
Mosquitoes love the wetlands! Pack repellent for a more comfortable experience. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
👟 Comfortable Footwear Recommended
The paved trail is great for walking, running, or biking. Consider water shoes if you plan to explore the creek. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls
Leashed dogs are welcome! Your furry friend will love splashing in the creek. :dog:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Don't miss the waterfall, old mill, and wetland views. Perfect photo opportunities await! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ivy Creek Greenway's peaceful atmosphere, lush greenery, and well-maintained paved trails, perfect for walking and biking. The scenic boardwalks over wetlands and the charming old mill with a waterfall are frequent highlights. Some find the parking near the I-85 exit tricky, and mosquito repellent is recommended.
"Very nice walking trail, the entrance it's kind of hidden. We had to park by the Moe's in the shopping center. The entrance is next to the South bound I-85 off ramp."
PS Robinson
"Ivy Creek Greenway is a peaceful, scenic trail that winds through lush forests, alongside the meandering Ivy Creek, and past wetlands filled with wildlife. The greenery is abundant, making it a great place for a leisurely walk, run, or bike ride. The atmosphere is tranquil, offering a serene environment where you can easily forget you're so close to the city.
Trail Quality:
The trail is well-paved and mostly flat, making it accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're walking, jogging, or cycling, the path is smooth and easy to navigate. There are several bridges and boardwalks along the route, which add to the charm and provide great views of the surrounding nature."
Hakan Akel
"Highly recommend avoiding the parking area nestled between Buford Dr and the exit ramp of hwy 85. The area is not maintained, and if you're driving anything besides a truck you'll need some finesse to get back out.
Mosquito repellant and awareness are your friend here. Recommend you don't jog with headphones in.
Will need to revisit to see more of the trails."
Hegemony Productions LLC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The entrance can be a bit hidden. While some park near the I-85 exit ramp, it's recommended to park at nearby shopping centers for easier and safer access. Look for signs pointing towards the greenway from these areas.
Yes, parking is available, but the quality varies. The area near the I-85 southbound off-ramp is not well-maintained and can be difficult to exit, especially for non-truck vehicles. It's best to find parking at adjacent shopping centers. :car:
Absolutely! The trail is well-paved and smooth, making it ideal for biking. It's a great way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery. :bike:
The trail is mostly flat and well-paved, making it generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The boardwalk sections are also designed for ease of movement. :wheelchair:
From downtown Atlanta, take I-85 North towards Greenville. The greenway is accessible via exits near Buford Drive. It's advisable to use GPS and look for parking in the vicinity of the Buford Drive exits. :world_map:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ivy Creek Greenway is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to access and enjoy the natural beauty. :ticket:
As a public greenway, it is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary, but it's typically open for visitors throughout the day. :clock1:
There are no admission fees to enter or use the Ivy Creek Greenway. It's a free public amenity for the community to enjoy. :moneywithwings:
No reservations are needed or available for general access to Ivy Creek Greenway. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. :calendar:
There isn't a formal visitor center. Information is primarily gathered from signage along the trail and community reviews. :informationdeskperson:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can spot various wildlife, including turtles in the wetlands, various bird species, and potentially other small mammals. The creek also offers opportunities for observing aquatic life. :bird:
Restroom facilities are not explicitly mentioned in reviews, so it's advisable to plan accordingly or use facilities at nearby shopping centers before or after your visit. :toilet:
Yes, the trail is very well-shaded by trees, making it an enjoyable experience even on warmer days. This provides a comfortable temperature for walking and other activities. :palm_tree:
Some reviews mention the possibility of fishing at certain spots under bridges along the creek. It's recommended to check local fishing regulations before casting a line. :fishingpoleand_வத:
The trail is well-paved and mostly flat, making it easy to navigate for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. There are also charming bridges and boardwalks. :road:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within Ivy Creek Greenway. It's a nature trail focused on outdoor recreation. :forkandknifewithplate:
Since the greenway is often accessed via shopping centers, you'll find various fast-food and casual dining options nearby. Moe's is mentioned as being close to one of the entrances. :hamburger:
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and find a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic, especially if you're looking for a peaceful meal surrounded by nature. :sandwich:
You'll likely find coffee shops and cafes within the shopping centers adjacent to the greenway entrances, perfect for a pre- or post-walk refreshment. :coffee:
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own snacks and water, especially for longer walks, as there are no concessions available within the greenway itself. :water_bottle:
📸 📸 Photography
The old mill ruins with the waterfall are a prime photography spot. The scenic boardwalks over the wetlands also offer beautiful shots, especially with the lush greenery and potential wildlife. :camerawithflash:
Absolutely! The wetlands, creek, and surrounding forest provide ample opportunities for nature photography, from macro shots of plants to capturing birds and turtles. :camerawithflash:
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour lighting, enhancing the natural beauty. Early mornings can also be serene with soft light. :sunrise:
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment. :respect:
Drone usage policies can vary by local park regulations. It's best to check with the local authorities or park management for any specific rules regarding drone operation. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring bug spray, as mosquitoes can be present, especially near the water. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no concessions on-site. The shaded paths offer a comfortable environment for a family outing, even on warmer days. It's a great place for a leisurely walk or a fun bike ride. :familywithkids:
🐶 Dog Owners
The paved trails provide ample space for dogs to walk or run alongside you. Just be sure to keep them on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. The natural surroundings offer plenty of interesting smells and sights for your canine companion. :dog2:
🏃♀️ Runners and Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Water Features
The wetlands are a highlight, particularly the scenic boardwalks that allow you to traverse them without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. These boardwalks provide excellent vantage points for observing wildlife, with visitors frequently mentioning spotting turtles basking in the sun. The presence of water makes the greenway a haven for various bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
For those who enjoy a bit of water play, certain parts of the creek are shallow enough for dogs to splash around in, as one reviewer happily shared. While swimming for humans isn't typically recommended or facilitated, the visual and auditory presence of water significantly enhances the tranquil atmosphere of the greenway. :water_wave:
The Charm of the Old Mill and Waterfall
The waterfall, though perhaps not grand in scale, contributes significantly to the picturesque quality of the greenway. It creates a soothing ambiance and a beautiful focal point amidst the greenery. The combination of the rustic mill ruins and the flowing water makes for a memorable scene that many visitors are eager to capture with their cameras.
This feature provides a delightful contrast to the more natural wetland and forest sections of the trail, offering a touch of history and man-made beauty integrated seamlessly into the environment. It's a testament to how nature and remnants of human history can coexist harmoniously. :old_key:
Trail Conditions and Accessibility
Adding to the trail's appeal are the numerous bridges and boardwalks that cross over the creek and wetlands. These structures not only enhance the visual charm of the greenway but also provide excellent viewpoints and ensure that visitors can explore the diverse habitats without impacting them. The paved nature and gentle slopes make it a suitable option for those using strollers or wheelchairs. :wheelchair:
While the main trail is excellent, one parking area near the I-85 exit ramp has been noted as being less maintained and potentially difficult to navigate, especially for certain vehicles. It's a good reminder to choose your entry point wisely to ensure a smooth start to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit