Lullwater Preserve - view through the yellow weeds at garry point park in richmond, bc
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Lullwater Preserve

4.7
·484 reviews·Decatur, United States

A serene 154-acre preserve on Emory's campus, offering wooded trails, Candler Lake, and historic landmarks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more wildlife

CrowdLow
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Lullwater Preserve - view through the yellow weeds at garry point park in richmond, bc

Lullwater Preserve

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more wildlife

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 154-acre preserve on Emory's campus, offering wooded trails, Candler Lake, and historic landmarks.

4.7
(484 reviews)

"It's such a peaceful spot to run or walk. The trail is well-kept, and the surroundings are calming."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Emory's Michael Street parking deck is free evenings/weekends. Avoid restricted university lots!

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Trails can be hilly and varied. Wear good walking or running shoes for the best experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Candler Lake Loop

Candler Lake Loop

Emory University Campus

A scenic loop around Candler Lake, offering peaceful views and a connection to nature within the city.

Trestle Bridge

Trestle Bridge

Lullwater Preserve Trails

An iconic long trestle bridge that feels like stepping out of the city and into a serene, wooded escape.

Old Stone Tower

Old Stone Tower

Lullwater Preserve

A striking, historic stone tower that adds a sense of wonder and mystery to the preserve's natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Lullwater Preserve Access

Lullwater Preserve is nestled within Emory University. Access can be tricky, especially regarding parking. Be mindful of restricted university lots to avoid towing. Consider nearby free parking options on evenings and weekends.

Best Times for Peaceful Exploration

To avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility, aim for weekdays or early mornings. Weekends can see more foot traffic, especially during pleasant weather. Early visits offer the best chance for wildlife sightings.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Free parking available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Details on this amazing spot- It’s called Lula Lake Land Trust, and it’s only open to the public on its ’Open Gate Days’. From December-April, these are only on the first and last Saturdays of each month, plus a few other special days you can find listed on their website. From May-November, open gate days are first and last weekends. You MUST reserve a spot on their open gate days. It’s around ...
@ganza_media
189K likes • 2M views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Emory's Michael Street parking deck is free evenings/weekends. Avoid restricted university lots! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Trails can be hilly and varied. Wear good walking or running shoes for the best experience. Instagram

Lullwater Preserve📍 North Atlanta, GA #thingstodoinatlanta #hiking #walkingtrail #atlanta
official_chelle
30 likes • 1.1K views
Looking to catch a tan, get peace & quiet, or need a good walk for the day check out Lullwater Preserve 💙🦋
chatinframes
15 likes • 864 views

🌿 Embrace the Nature

Look for deer, snakes, and turtles! The preserve is rich with wildlife. TikTok

📍 Trailhead Tip

Start at Hahn Woods on Houston Mill Rd for a magical journey through the preserve. Reddit

Exploring new trails is one of my favorite things to do. Let me know if I should share more!! #hiking #trails #atlantatrails #atlantahikes #roswellriverwalk #roswellmill #lullwaterpreserve #atlien #peaceful #weightloss #selflove #fitness
kam.g
477 likes • 9.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Emory's Michael Street parking deck is free evenings/weekends. Avoid restricted university lots! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Trails can be hilly and varied. Wear good walking or running shoes for the best experience. Instagram

🌿 Embrace the Nature

Look for deer, snakes, and turtles! The preserve is rich with wildlife. TikTok

📍 Trailhead Tip

Start at Hahn Woods on Houston Mill Rd for a magical journey through the preserve. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery is breathtaking, perfect for photos and peaceful reflection. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(484 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Lullwater Preserve for its breathtaking scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent trails, making it a beloved spot for running and walking. While parking can be a challenge due to its university location, the natural beauty and wildlife sightings make it a worthwhile destination for those seeking an urban nature escape.

"Biggest negative is parking/access. Lots of cool birds and animals (deer, snakes, turtles etc) It has some decent foot traffic so you don’t ever feel like you’re “lost” but If you’ve ever been to other parks in the area and haven’t been here it’s definitely worth checking out. Not my first choice as I’d prefer Daniel Johnson or Moringside Nature Preserve as those you really feel like you’re in the woods. But if you’re close by check out, not sure it’s worth more than a 20 min drive."

Peter

"I absolutely love the Water Preserve! I visited it for the running trail while training, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. The scenery makes every step feel worth it, and it's such a peaceful spot to run or walk. The trail is well-kept, and the surroundings are calming—perfect for both a good workout and some relaxation afterward. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a beautiful outdoor spot!"

Brittany Brown

"Great place to get a hilly run in with plenty of paved asphalt road space & nature"

Miguel Ulgasan

What People Like

Breathtaking scenery
Peaceful atmosphere
Great for running

What People Dislike

Parking challenges
Can feel less 'wild'

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lullwater Preserve is located on the Emory University campus in North Decatur, GA. You can enter via various points, including off Clifton Road or Houston Mill Road. Be aware of university parking restrictions. Instagram+1

While it's on Emory's campus, signage can be a bit subtle. Using GPS and looking for entrances near the President's home or along Clifton Road can help. Instagram

Emory University is served by several MARTA bus routes. Check the MARTA schedule for routes that stop near the campus. From the bus stop, you may need to walk a bit to reach the preserve entrance. Instagram

Many visitors recommend starting at Hahn Woods on Houston Mill Road, which leads you down wooden stairs and onto the main trail system. Reddit

While primarily a walking and running trail, some paved asphalt road sections within the preserve can be used for cycling, offering a hilly workout. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Lullwater Preserve is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. Access is generally free. Instagram

As it's part of Emory University, access is generally during daylight hours. It's best to visit during typical park hours to ensure safety and accessibility. Instagram

There is no admission fee to enter Lullwater Preserve. It's a free public space for recreation and enjoying nature. Instagram

Reservations are not typically required for general public access to Lullwater Preserve. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. TikTok

Unlike some other nature trusts, Lullwater Preserve is generally accessible without needing to wait for specific 'Open Gate Days.' TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The preserve offers a mix of wooded trails, paved asphalt paths, and a scenic loop around Candler Lake. Some sections can be hilly. InstagramReddit

Visitors often report seeing deer, snakes, turtles, and a variety of birds. It's a great spot for nature observation. Reddit

Yes, it's a popular spot for runners, offering hilly terrain and beautiful scenery that makes workouts enjoyable. InstagramReddit

Restroom facilities are not widely advertised within the preserve itself. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit or at nearby Emory campus buildings if available. Instagram

The Candler Lake loop, the long trestle bridge, and the historic old stone tower are frequently highlighted as particularly beautiful and photogenic spots. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The trestle bridge, the old stone tower, Candler Lake, and the lush greenery offer fantastic photo opportunities. The 'lost city' vibe under the overpass is also unique. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! With diverse wildlife, beautiful water features, and dense woods, it's an excellent location for capturing nature shots. Reddit

Early mornings often provide softer light and fewer people, ideal for photography. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be stunning. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted on university campuses and in natural preserves due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check Emory University's specific policies. Instagram

The old stone tower and the long trestle bridge are iconic landmarks that make for memorable photographs. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lullwater Preserve offers a family-friendly environment for a nature outing. The trails are generally manageable for children, and the chance to spot wildlife like deer and turtles can be very exciting for younger visitors. Reddit The Candler Lake loop provides a pleasant walk with scenic views, and the trestle bridge offers a fun, adventurous element. Instagram

Practical tip: Pack snacks and water, and be mindful of parking regulations. Starting at Hahn Woods can provide a good introduction to the preserve for families. Reddit The relatively short trail distances make it manageable for a few hours of exploration without overwhelming little ones.

🏃‍♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts

For those looking for a challenging and scenic run, Lullwater Preserve is an excellent choice. The preserve features hilly terrain and a mix of paved asphalt roads and natural trails, providing a varied workout. Reddit The Candler Lake loop is a popular route for runners seeking beautiful views while training. Reddit

Key advantage: The natural setting offers a refreshing change from urban running environments, and the presence of other visitors means you won't feel isolated. Instagram Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the varied trail surfaces.

📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers

Lullwater Preserve is a dream for photographers and anyone who appreciates natural beauty. The trestle bridge and the old stone tower are iconic subjects, offering unique compositions. InstagramReddit The preserve's abundant wildlife, including deer and various bird species, provides ample opportunities for nature photography. Reddit

Best light: Early mornings offer soft, diffused light perfect for capturing the serene atmosphere and wildlife. The lush greenery and water features, especially around Candler Lake, are also highly photogenic. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Parking and Access: A Traveler's Guide

Navigating parking at Lullwater Preserve can be a point of contention for visitors. Since it's situated on Emory University's campus, many lots are designated for students and faculty, with strict towing policies. Travelers often express concern about finding affordable or free parking. A common tip shared on Reddit is to utilize Emory's Michael Street parking deck, which offers free parking during evenings and weekends. Reddit Alternatively, some visitors have found success parking at the Clifton School lot, though caution is advised to ensure it's not a restricted area. Instagram

Accessing the preserve itself can also be subtle. While there are multiple entry points, some are less obvious than others. Starting your exploration from Hahn Woods on Houston Mill Road is a popular recommendation, leading visitors down wooden stairs and directly onto the main trail network. Reddit This approach seems to offer a more immersive entry into the preserve's natural beauty. Being aware of these access points and parking nuances can significantly improve your visit. Instagram

It's crucial to pay attention to signage and avoid any lots clearly marked for specific university access to prevent tickets or towing. Instagram Planning your arrival time, especially considering free parking availability, can make your trip much smoother and more enjoyable.

Exploring the Natural Beauty and Wildlife

Lullwater Preserve is celebrated for its serene natural environment, offering a welcome escape within the urban landscape of Atlanta. The preserve boasts a variety of trails, including paved paths and more natural, wooded routes, making it suitable for different preferences. The loop around Candler Lake is a particular highlight, providing picturesque views and a sense of tranquility. Instagram+1

Beyond the scenic beauty, the preserve is a haven for local wildlife. Visitors frequently report sightings of deer, various species of snakes and turtles, and a rich array of birdlife. Reddit This makes Lullwater Preserve an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The feeling of being immersed in nature, with the sounds of water and rustling leaves, is a common theme in visitor feedback. Instagram

The preserve's diverse flora and fauna contribute to its charm, offering a peaceful backdrop for walks, runs, or simply quiet contemplation. Instagram The well-maintained trails, combined with the natural surroundings, create an experience that many find both invigorating and calming. Reddit

Iconic Landmarks and Historical Whispers

Within Lullwater Preserve lie several landmarks that add a layer of intrigue and history to the natural landscape. The long trestle bridge is a standout feature, often described as feeling like stepping into another world, away from the city's hustle. Instagram Its impressive structure and the surrounding wooded environment make it a favorite spot for visitors. Instagram

Another significant landmark is the old stone tower, a striking structure that evokes a sense of history and wonder. Reddit Its presence adds a unique visual element to the preserve, prompting curiosity about its origins and past. The area beneath the Houston Mill / Mason Mill overpass, often described as looking like an 'old/lost city' covered in kudzu and branches, also offers a unique, almost mystical, photographic opportunity. Reddit

These landmarks, combined with the natural beauty, create a multi-faceted experience. The blend of natural scenery with these man-made historical elements provides a rich tapestry for exploration and discovery. Reddit Whether you're a history buff or simply appreciate unique sights, these features make Lullwater Preserve a memorable destination.

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