Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Paces Mill - Image 1
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Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Paces Mill

4.7
·1k reviews·Atlanta, United States

A serene national recreation area offering riverside trails, open meadows, and river access for boating and fishing.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Paces Mill - Image 1

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Paces Mill

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene national recreation area offering riverside trails, open meadows, and river access for boating and fishing.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Beautiful park! Well-maintained trails, peaceful river views, and plenty of space to relax."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Renovation Status

Paces Mill is closed for renovations until Spring 2025. Consider Cochran Shoals as an alternative!

Dog-Friendly Fields

Great spot to bring your dogs to play in the big field and enjoy the river views. :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riverside Trails

Riverside Trails

Along the Chattahoochee River

Enjoy peaceful walks with scenic river views, where water rushes over rocks. Perfect for a nature escape.

Paved Path & Trail Network

Paved Path & Trail Network

Connecting to broader CRNRA network

Excellent paved paths and trails for walking and biking, easily connecting to a larger network for extended adventures.

River Tubing Take-Out

River Tubing Take-Out

Chattahoochee River

A popular and convenient spot for river tubing enthusiasts to exit the water after a float.

Open Meadows

Open Meadows

Near the river

Spacious, open fields perfect for picnics, dog play, or simply relaxing in a natural setting.

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Planning Your Visit

Check for Renovations Before You Go

Paces Mill is undergoing renovations until late Spring 2025. If you're planning a visit during this time, consider Cochran Shoals as an alternative for similar riverside trails and meadows. Always check the official NPS website for the latest updates on closures and access.

River Access & Safety

While Paces Mill is a popular takeout for river tubing, be aware that paddling south of the recreation area can lead into industrial zones. Research access points and safety precautions if you plan to kayak or tube beyond the immediate park area.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for river tubing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is actually in Atlanta. 🌿 Cochran Shoals is just 20 minutes from downtown and the perfect go-to while Paces Mill is closed for renovations through May 2025. 📍1956 Eugene Gunby Rd, Marietta, GA 30067 You’ll get peaceful riverside trails, wide open meadows, and that same Chattahoochee calm — all without leaving the city. 🌊 And with round trip gas around $5, there’s no reason not to pull up. Unt...
@itsnotiqbruh
23.9K likes • 418.1K views

Check Renovation Status

Paces Mill is closed for renovations until Spring 2025. Consider Cochran Shoals as an alternative! TikTok

Dog-Friendly Fields

Great spot to bring your dogs to play in the big field and enjoy the river views. :dog:

reddit.com

Paddling the Chattahoochee River south of Recreation Area

reddit.com

Recommendations for fishing in chattahoochee river for newbies?

Connect to More Trails

The paved path connects to a larger trail network for longer walks or bike rides. :bike:

River Access Research

If paddling south, research industrial areas and access points beforehand. :kayak:

reddit.com

Chattahoochee River Tubing

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Renovation Status

Paces Mill is closed for renovations until Spring 2025. Consider Cochran Shoals as an alternative! TikTok

Dog-Friendly Fields

Great spot to bring your dogs to play in the big field and enjoy the river views. :dog:

Connect to More Trails

The paved path connects to a larger trail network for longer walks or bike rides. :bike:

River Access Research

If paddling south, research industrial areas and access points beforehand. :kayak:

Recent Parking Upgrades

The parking lot has been redone and is now larger and more accommodating. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Paces Mill for its beautiful, well-maintained trails and peaceful river views, making it a great nature escape. The recent parking lot upgrades and clean facilities enhance the experience, and it's a popular spot for river tubing take-outs and dog play. Some note that certain trails pass under highway bridges, which might detract from the natural scenery for some.

"Beautiful park! Well-maintained trails, peaceful river views, and plenty of space to relax. Clean facilities and easy parking made for a great day. Highly recommend for a nature escape!"

Richard Jeffries

"Great spot popular as a take out for river tubes. The walking trails and paved path are also excellent and connect to many other trails if you want to go further. The parking lot was recently redone and it's much bigger and amenable to the popularity of the facility."

Rivers Ludden

"This place was closed for a while but now it’s back open and better than ever - great trails connected to broader CRNRA network, clean bathroom and water fountain, and nice take-out for river tubing. Great place to take dogs to play on big field and nice views of river"

John

What People Like

Beautiful river views
Well-maintained trails
Clean facilities

What People Dislike

Trails under bridges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Paces Mill is located at 1956 Eugene Gunby Rd, Marietta, GA 30067. It's accessible by car and offers a recently redone, larger parking lot. TikTok

Yes, Paces Mill is conveniently located about 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta, making it an accessible nature escape. TikTok

The park features well-maintained trails and a paved path, ideal for walking, jogging, and biking. Reddit

Information on public transportation to Paces Mill is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access. Reddit

Kayaking south of Paces Mill can lead into industrial areas after about 2 miles. Research specific access points and safety for this stretch. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Paces Mill is part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, which typically has an entrance fee or requires a pass. Check the official NPS website for current fees and pass options. Reddit

Operating hours can vary. It's best to check the official Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area website for the most up-to-date hours of operation. Reddit

Tickets are generally not required in advance for park entry, but it's always wise to check the NPS website for any special event ticketing or reservation requirements. Reddit

Paces Mill is generally open year-round, but it is currently closed for renovations until late Spring 2025. Always verify current status. TikTok

If Paces Mill is closed, consider visiting nearby Cochran Shoals for similar riverside trails and meadows. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking and biking on trails, picnicking in open meadows, and river tubing. It's also a great spot for dogs to play. Reddit

The park offers a mix of paved paths and natural trails. The paved paths are generally easy, while some natural trails can be more moderate. Reddit

The natural environment along the river and in the meadows offers opportunities for birdwatching. Reddit

Expect peaceful riverside trails, open meadows, and views of the Chattahoochee River, though some trails pass under highway bridges. Reddit

Yes, the park has clean bathrooms and a water fountain, which were noted as being improved after recent renovations. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for scenic river views, the open meadows, and the trails winding through nature. The rushing water over rocks can be particularly photogenic. Reddit

Absolutely! The combination of river, meadows, and surrounding greenery provides ample opportunities for nature photography. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow. Reddit

Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. Check the official NPS website for specific rules regarding drone operation within the recreation area. Reddit

The contrast between the natural river environment and the occasional highway overpasses can create interesting urban-nature juxtaposition shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Paces Mill offers a fantastic, accessible outdoor experience for families. The open meadows are perfect for kids to run around and play, and the paved trails are safe and easy for strollers or little ones learning to ride bikes. Reddit It's a great spot to pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed family outing surrounded by nature. The river itself, while beautiful, should be supervised closely with children, especially if they plan on wading or playing near the water's edge. Reddit

Remember that Paces Mill is currently undergoing renovations until Spring 2025. If you're visiting during this period, consider the nearby Cochran Shoals for a similar family-friendly experience with riverside trails and open spaces. TikTok Always check the official NPS website for the most current information on park access and any temporary closures. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Paces Mill is a dog-friendly destination, with large open fields that are ideal for your canine companions to play and explore. Reddit Your furry friends can enjoy the fresh air and scenic views alongside you. Remember to keep your dogs on a leash as per park regulations to ensure the safety of other visitors and wildlife. Reddit

While dogs are welcome on the trails and in the open areas, always be mindful of cleaning up after your pet. Bringing waste bags is essential. The park's natural setting provides a great environment for dogs to get their exercise, making it a popular choice for dog owners looking for an outdoor escape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Chattahoochee River

The Chattahoochee River is a central feature of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, offering various water-based activities. Paces Mill is known as a popular takeout point for river tubing, providing a convenient end to a float trip. Reddit If you're considering paddling further south, be aware that the scenery can shift from natural beauty to industrial landscapes after a few miles. Reddit It's crucial to research access points and understand the river's conditions, especially if venturing beyond the designated recreation areas. Always prioritize safety and be prepared for varying water levels and currents. Reddit

For those interested in kayaking or canoeing, the river offers a different perspective. While Paces Mill itself is a great access point, exploring upstream or downstream can reveal diverse ecosystems. Remember to check the NPS website for any advisories or closures related to river activities. Reddit The river is a vital resource for recreation and wildlife, so responsible enjoyment is key to preserving its beauty for future visitors. Reddit

Trail Exploration and Connectivity

Paces Mill boasts well-maintained trails that cater to various preferences. A highlight is the paved path, which is excellent for easy walks, jogging, and cycling. Reddit This path is not just an isolated feature; it seamlessly connects to the broader Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) trail network. This connectivity means you can easily extend your outing, creating longer loops or exploring different sections of the park without needing to drive between trailheads. Reddit

Beyond the paved options, natural trails wind through the park, offering a more immersive nature experience. These trails provide opportunities to enjoy the peaceful riverside and open meadows. Reddit While generally accessible, some natural trails might have moderate inclines or uneven terrain. It's always a good idea to wear appropriate footwear, like athletic shoes, for comfort and safety, especially if you plan on venturing onto the unpaved paths. Reddit The park's trail system is a significant draw for visitors seeking both exercise and a connection with nature. Reddit

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