Paved paths are great, but if you have a thrill-seeker at home, taking the pedals off the pavement may be your best bet. From meandering trails near streams to paths that putter through meadows, there are plenty of places for beginner mountain bikers near Atlanta. Keep reading for our five favorite trails to tackle, now.
Murphy Candler Park Trail
This well-loved Atlanta park offers a 1.5 mile loop trail around a lake, and is good for all skill levels. There are bridges to cross, turns to make, and a pretty hefty hill, but none of the path is unmanageable for a beginner mountain biker. Just be on the lookout for runners and walkers, who share the path.
1551 W Nancy Creek Dr.
Brookhaven
Online: brookhavenga.gov
Taylor Randahl Memorial Bike Trails at Olde Rope Mill Park
With 15 miles of trails that are good for both beginners and advanced riders alike, the SORBA-maintained trail system weaves near the Little River, which means you can hear the bubbling water between your kids' shouts of "wahoo!" The Explorer Trail Loop 1 (.5 miles) is the only beginner rated trail in the park, and has a wide, smooth singletrack path.
690 Rope Mill Rd.
Woodstock
Online: sorbawoodstock.org
Allatoona Creek Park
This 15 mile multi-use trail system is geared specifically towards mountain bikers paths that range from beginner to expert. It is situated right next to Lake Allatoona, and you can take some trails to the lake's shores. There is also a skills course, for the bikers who want to try their hand at riding on logs, doing jumps, and handling curves before they encounter them on a more advanced path. With so many paths available to take, be sure to that you're getting started on a beginner course, or else you might find yourself quickly out of your comfort zone. Also, trails are open sunrise to sunset except for the following months due to hunting season: September and October—trails open at 10 a.m., November and December—trails are completely closed, and January—trails open at 10 a.m. Always check the site for the trail status before riding.
5690 Old Stilesboro Rd
Acworth
Online: facebook.com/allatoonacreekpark
Lost Mountain Park
Don't let the name worry you. This Cobb county park has multi-use gravel paths and is a great place for families with lots of ball fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, fishing pond, a large rec center and even a senior center. If you go for the beginner mountain biking trails, you're nearly guaranteed not to get lost. The Pond Trail is a level track that loops a pond, and is perfect for beginners.
4845 Dallas Highway
Powder Springs
Online: mtbproject.com
Chicopee Woods Mountain Bike Park
Located in Hall County near Gainesville, Chicopee Woods Mountain Bike Park has 21.3 miles of mountain biking trails that range from beginner to advanced. For your newbies, get them started on the Tortoise Trail or the Hare Trail, both of which are easily accessed from the parking lot.
Elachee Dr.
Gainesville
Online: facebook.com/chicopeewoodsmtb
—Shelley Massey
RELATED STORIES:
The Biggest Virtual & Online Events Calendar for Kids & Families
5 Perfect Picnic Spots in Atlanta
16 Signs You’re an Atlanta Parent
Atlanta Inspired Kids Names & Their Meanings
