Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

Nature preserve · Atlanta

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

Nature preserve · Atlanta
2852 Cascade Rd, Atlanta, GA 30311

Photos

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve by null

Highlights

Shady trails, waterfalls, streams & picnic tables await  

Placeholder
Placeholder

2852 Cascade Rd, Atlanta, GA 30311 Get directions

atlantatrails.com
@cascadespringsconservancy

Information

Static Map

2852 Cascade Rd, Atlanta, GA 30311 Get directions

+1 404 546 6744
atlantatrails.com
@cascadespringsconservancy

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Aug 18, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.

Alavache

Google
1st time i locked eyes with a owl was in this place (see video). If it wasn't for this nature preserve I don't know if I would have made it out of 2024 with my sanity. I come here multiple times a week, sometimes daily depending on weather. There is a special rock on the hill that I meditate on. Very peaceful. This is a gem away from the city but right within it. Upon entering you have 3 directions to choose from but there are more paths that split off from there. Beginners to intermediate level. Almost a year later I was still discovering new things here. I always see deer here and sometimes small snakes, turtles and birds.

Brandon Coleman

Google
Nice trail with wooden pathways, as well as off road trails that lead westward towards the creek on the perimeter of the preserve. Many head cuts to keep the water flowing & the trickle audible. Plenty of tables/benches along the way to rest upon. On the northern perimeter, there's a mini waterfall. This is a well shaded area, provided by the luscious foliage. Most of the trails have large stepping stones or tree roots protruding outward as you move upwards in elevation (this is a good thing). I eventually paralleled the creek & traversed a mile into the woods when I saw to juvenile bucks (1-2 years old).

Kylie DeBoer

Google
I had no idea this city park was tucked back here! What an urban oasis! Easy to park with shade, currently some construction on the road before entrance but that’s minor. Super shady getaway compared to the Beltline, there’s tables great for a picnic. Minus the ants, it’s not too buggy! If it’s rained, be prepared for mud. HUGE TIP! Take your phone, there’s decent cell and gps service which you might want to help orient yourself with the creek and parking lot. A lovely, but easy place to get lost as there’s no trail map or clear markers for direction. If you want to see the waterfall, turn left at the little replica church. If you want to explore, a good route starts by the picnic tables and you can eventually weave yourself all the way around to end at the waterfall. Happy hiking!

Rachel Centanni Romagosa

Google
Nice hiking area. No real signage so we just strolled around. We did see 3 deer while on our hike.

Kiah Newton

Google
Beautiful park full of trails, off trails and things to deeper investigate. It's a beginner/intermediate trek depending on which ways you go. The first part of each trail is fairly simple and a short 15 minute hike in any direction. I braved the trails with my jogger stroller and was able to navigate just fine other than the occasional rock, stump or branch that jostled us up. (Hiking with a baby takes practice, coordination and strength, do not hike with anything that you are not able to lift yourself. There were several stairs, inclines and dips that led to my lifting the whole stroller.)

Joan-Marie Kemp

Google
Pretty place and the little fall isn't very far of a walk. There are bridges and paths but no signs or map. No trashcans or bathrooms. We were able to go all the way around and climb up to the top. Just watch your step.

Johnnie

Google
Great park that is only a short drive from downtown. Trails are still being marked so alltrails was handy. Some trails are not on the maps. Great for a short easy trail run or hike. Easy for dogs as well. Parking lot was nearly full even on a weekday. Very shaded.

Amber Chu

Google
It was okay. There’s no bathroom, and the path isn’t well marked. We couldn’t find the cascading portion of the river, and saw some trash on the trail. There’s a lot of potential here though, and it wasn’t a terrible hike. Deff saw some cool and large rocks on the path (see picture). I’m hoping that they add some more trail markers and a map soon.
google avatar

Joy C.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Keila K.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Brianna L.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Saphir S.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Luigi C.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Jamaya P.

Yelp
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
google avatar

Greg L.

Yelp
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
google avatar

Janez M.

Yelp
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.

Jamal T.

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

Kiah R.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Jim W.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Carlos D.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Jennifer S.

Yelp
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
google avatar

Tracy B.

Yelp
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!

Meredith M.

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

Toni G.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Chris A.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Yonnie S.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Eboni A.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Chesa C.

Yelp
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!)
google avatar

Wendy M.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Robin S.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Mynee F.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Latonya S.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Stephanie L.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Nicki K.

Yelp
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
google avatar

Tiffani B.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Candice M.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Simon S.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Kita H.

Yelp
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 .

Instagram T.

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

Catrina F.

Yelp
Very peaceful and clean. Great meditation and relaxation location with a trail. Waterfall is beautiful.
google avatar

Elizabeth S.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Mechelle B.

Yelp
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!!!
google avatar

Cary B.

Yelp
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.

Latrice J.

Yelp
Beautiful off the beaten path well within the city nature park open to the public. Has a wonderful history that has not been taught at the near by schools.... SMH! Great for trail walks and newt finding or geocaching. A nice stream flows through it. Ample parking but no restrooms.
google avatar

Michael R.

Yelp
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 .
google avatar

Darren H.

Yelp
Well, thanks to Yelp I found this place because before then I didn't know this type of park existed within the borders of Atlanta. A pretty easy trail to hike, you have streams and waterfalls that are fairly close once you walk in and trails with higher elevations once you keep walking around. Places like these are always good for a kind of a getaway from the city itself. My negative would be that the trails themselves aren't marked very well and I saw several people walking around trying to find the different areas. Outside of that I enjoyed this place very much and will be back.
google avatar

Johnnay C.

Yelp
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!!
google avatar

Kayla B.

Yelp
Such a beautiful park!!! Lots of shady areas. The several hills and paths will lead you to different areas, like the creek, or the waterfall. There are huge rocks you can sit on (chairs too of course). The whole nature preserve is so quiet...so serene.. once you get there you may find yourself there for hours, just relaxing, in awe of how green the trees are, or how calming the creek sounds. The vibe was amazing. I'd recommend you bring someone with you, not only because your kids will love it, but this is also a perfect date destination!!! I realized yesterday, that, yeah a restaurant is a cool place to get to know someone, but why not give nature a try too? One thing I wish I would've brought was a fanny pack or small duffle bag. And maybe an umbrella (just check the weather) because there isn't a gazebo/pavilion in the park. So if you get caught in the rain, you're getting soaked!! Don't forget insect repellent!
google avatar

Jamika F.

Yelp
Nice small hidden treasure. Gets crowded around 12 noon on sat but this can be a long or short hike. Not a lot out there but great for a nature walk. Check out the Tiny house and the small waterfall.
google avatar

Eren C.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Chelsia T.

Yelp
I loveeeeed this place. It's an overall peaceful area, great place for walking alone as well -- you probably won't see many people around, it's not in the safest part of the city... But it's beyond worth it. Awesome for waterfall hunting too. Just keep an eye on your vehicle, a runner there warned me that your car could get tampered with if it's the only one in the parking lot.
google avatar

Zonya G.

Yelp
We live only about 5 miles from this beautiful preserve, but today was our first time exploring Cascade Springs. I had pulled in to the parking lot once a couple years ago, but it looked deserted, trashy, and the sign on the gate said it closes at 2 pm, or something weird like that, so we left and never went back until today. Now I'm kicking myself for not exploring here sooner. My one complaint is that the trails are not well marked. Blazes would really make it easier to find your way around without getting lost. My three daughters loved clamoring around on the rocks by the waterfall, and they must have spent half an hour leaping on granite boulders near the entrance to the preserve. Someone has recently painted many of the picnic tables and benches with beautiful, bright colors and designs. We'll definitely be going back.

I Talk A.

Yelp
Took the kids hiking to see the waterfall. It was beautiful and had icicles. We did try the rocks, but as expected they were very slippery. We walked the entire 1.9 mile circle back to the parking lot.
google avatar

Januari A.

Yelp
It is a very nice little hike, I was staying at an airbnb in the neighborhood while on vacation so I decided to get up and get in some exercise early morning with a hike. It is very beautiful inside, but the trails can be a little tricky as they are not really marked to well. Plus they also have tons of little small trails that are not a part of the hike but are clear enough to where if you are not paying attention you can make a wrong turn on one of the paths that isn't a true trail. There are three different paths you can take, be sure to download the map. It would be nice if they included maps, since not everyone wants to download extra apps to their phones just for a map. It was a nice hike for a saturday morning but it wouldn't be a hike that I would do more than once. If it fairly easy and simple, bring water of course.
google avatar

Jake B.

Yelp
Pretty nice place to be in a more "natural" area but still in reach of the city. Lots of trails to walk on that are not too long or difficult. Dog friendly as well. The only downside to me was that portions of the trails are not labeled at all. One path actually leads you into private property without warning. Weird. Still a nice place to go take a walk. Apparently there is a lot of civil war history at this site as well.
google avatar

Fatima Y.

Yelp
Nice calming, mini adventure. Love this place and will def return when I am back in ATL!!

Douglas M.

Yelp
Honestly this was good and bad... there was another guy that put a post and I honestly went into like this dude is being a Debbie downer. Nah man.... His initial point was right on.... So when you get to the parking lot.... Super sketch. Looked like a legit meet up spot, women getting picked up and dropped off. Folks hanging in the back areas not wanting you to see what they are up too. Normally I wouldn't trip... but we had the kids. Now when you get to the actual trail it was legit. Short walk to the waterfall you can see some older structures at least 100 years old.... Keep going and about a 1/4-1/5 mile away the water fall is right on the trail. Super nice.... But we couldn't really enjoy it. This was the day they had some local girls take a water shoot and all these thirsty guys were hanging around. Again it wasn't that bad but we had the kids with us. All in all not that bad but would try a better waterfall. Needs mor clean up and wouldn't come here in the later afternoon and evening. Stay blessed friends