Chattahoochee River NRA Cochran Shoals - Rio Teribe - Comarca Naso Territory, Northwest Panama photo made by rouichi / switzerland
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Chattahoochee River NRA Cochran Shoals

4.8
·733 reviews·Marietta, United States

Scenic riverside trails for walking, biking, and tubing, offering a peaceful nature escape near Atlanta.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Chattahoochee River NRA Cochran Shoals - Rio Teribe - Comarca Naso Territory, Northwest Panama photo made by rouichi / switzerland

Chattahoochee River NRA Cochran Shoals

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scenic riverside trails for walking, biking, and tubing, offering a peaceful nature escape near Atlanta.

4.8
(733 reviews)

"A beautiful local trail next to the Chattahoochee River, great for a walk, jogging, or biking."

Vertical photo
TIP

GPS Coordinates Needed

Use '1956 Eugene Gunby Rd, Marietta, GA 30067' for Cochran Shoals.

Hydration is Key

Water fountains are available along the main paths. Bring extra for longer hikes.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riverside Trails

Riverside Trails

Along the Chattahoochee River

Peaceful, scenic paths offering calm river views and open meadows. Perfect for a relaxing stroll or jog.

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Throughout the park

Keep an eye out for turtles and muskrats along the water's edge. A delight for nature lovers and families.

Tubing & Water Access

Tubing & Water Access

Akers Mill Trail parking area

A popular spot for tubing, kayaking, or paddleboarding down the Chattahoochee River. Check flow rates first!

Biking Opportunities

Biking Opportunities

Various trails

Explore the park on two wheels, with options for paved paths and some unpaved, more rugged terrain.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Trails

Beat the crowds and the heat by visiting Cochran Shoals during weekdays or early mornings. Weekends can get busy, especially with families and dog walkers. Consider the season; fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer can be quite warm for longer hikes.

Navigating the Trails

Cochran Shoals offers a mix of paved and unpaved trails, suitable for walking, jogging, and biking. Some side trails can be more challenging with elevation changes. Always check river flow rates before entering the water for activities like tubing.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Early evenings
Why
Golden hour light, fewer people
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 • 415.4K views

GPS Coordinates Needed

Use '1956 Eugene Gunby Rd, Marietta, GA 30067' for Cochran Shoals. Reddit

Hydration is Key

Water fountains are available along the main paths. Bring extra for longer hikes. Reddit

looking for a new spot to walk outside of Atlanta? check out the Cochran Shoals walking trail in Smyrna, GA! it’s the perfect place to get your steps in for the day + see the best views 🥾🌲 #CochranShoals #ExploreGeorgia #GeorgiaTrails #SmyrnaGeorgia #NatureLovers
@mediabymikayla
12.1K likes • 153.7K views
Swimming in the chattahoochee river is so fun! It’s about 15 minitues from midtown ATL. Go to the akers mill trail to patk and head to the water! #waternearatlanta #chattahoocheeriver #stufftodoatlanta #wateractivity
@eat_monnie
11.7K likes • 271.1K views

Sun Protection Recommended

Partially shaded, but a hat and sunglasses are advised for sunny days. Reddit

Leash Your Pets

Family and pet-friendly, but dogs must be leashed. Reddit

Esta es una de las joyas mejor guardadas de Atlanta 🚣🏻‍♀️Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area ⚠️LEE SI QUIERES VISITARLO⚠️ Para acceder a este lugar hay 3 opciones diferentes. ✅Power Island Trail, en este parking esta el acceso parq descender todo el rio en Tubbing, kayak o Paddleboards aqui tambien podras encontrar el area donde rentan inflables y Kayak Puedes encontrarla como (NOC Ch...
@marymatheustraveler
9.1K likes • 316.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

GPS Coordinates Needed

Use '1956 Eugene Gunby Rd, Marietta, GA 30067' for Cochran Shoals. Reddit

Hydration is Key

Water fountains are available along the main paths. Bring extra for longer hikes. Reddit

Sun Protection Recommended

Partially shaded, but a hat and sunglasses are advised for sunny days. Reddit

Leash Your Pets

Family and pet-friendly, but dogs must be leashed. Reddit

Check River Flow

Essential for tubing or water activities. Flow rates can vary. Reddit

Bike Rentals Available

Some TikToks mention bike rentals, check local availability. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(733 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Cochran Shoals for its beautiful riverside trails, abundant nature, and family-friendly atmosphere. It's a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking, offering a peaceful escape close to the city. Some find the trail maps slightly confusing in more rugged areas, and parking can be at capacity during peak times.

"My daughter convinced me to go hiking with her. I remembered this trail from years ago... so we decided to go. LOVED IT! We completed 3.5 miles... My little one was excited about the wildlife we saw. Great bonding time with the girls!"

Tay Tay

"We recently moved from Florida to Atlanta, and we went for the first time in mid fall. Cochran Shoals is walkable and beautiful for people of all ages PLUS their dogs! You can rent bicycles or bring your own, and there are a few trails you can choose from, making this as long as you walk as you like. The paths are so broad , with a few water fountains along the way for drinking; there is a restroom station as well which is clean!!
This is a great place to walk alone, for solitude and reflection, or with your (leashed) dog, or with friends for a fun and healthy day together."

Meg Marsh

"A beautiful local trail which next to the Chattahoochee River. Great for a walk, jogging, or biking near dinner time. The major route is not challenging."

Kaiqun Peng

What People Like

Beautiful riverside trails
Family and pet-friendly
Peaceful nature escape

What People Dislike

Parking can be full
Map confusing in rugged areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

For GPS navigation, use '1956 Eugene Gunby Rd, Marietta, GA 30067'. This is a common point of access mentioned by visitors. TikTokReddit

Cochran Shoals is conveniently located about 15-20 minutes from midtown and downtown Atlanta, making it an accessible nature escape. TikTok+1

Yes, there are several access points, including Power Island Trail and Akers Mill Trail, offering different experiences like tubing access or trailheads. TikTok

Yes, Cochran Shoals is a unit within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, offering various trails and river access points. Reddit

Information on public transportation is limited, but driving is the most common method. Parking is available at various trailheads. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Cochran Shoals is part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, which typically has an entrance fee or requires a park pass. Check the official NPS website for current fees. TikTok

Operating hours can vary by season and specific unit. It's best to check the official Chattahoochee River NRA website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation. TikTok

Generally, no advance booking is required for general park access. However, if you plan on specific activities like guided tours or rentals, it's wise to inquire. TikTok

Paces Mill Park, a nearby unit, was closed for renovations through May 2025, making Cochran Shoals a great alternative. Always check for current advisories. TikTok

The Chattahoochee River NRA often accepts national park passes like the America the Beautiful Pass. Check the NPS website for details. TikTok

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The main riverside trail is a comfortable walk, but there are smaller side trails offering more elevation changes for a moderate challenge. TikTokReddit

Yes, biking is popular here! You can bring your own bike or some sources mention rental options. The trails are suitable for biking, including some unpaved sections. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Families love the wildlife spotting opportunities, the easy-to-navigate trails, and the chance to connect with nature. TikTokReddit

Yes, there are clean restroom stations and water fountains available along the main paths, making it convenient for longer visits. Reddit

Visitors often spot small turtles and muskrats along the riverbanks. It's a great spot for casual wildlife observation. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Cochran Shoals is a natural area, so there are no restaurants or cafes within the park itself. Pack your own snacks and drinks. TikTok

The park is close to Smyrna and Marietta, offering a variety of dining options from casual eateries to more formal restaurants. TikTok

Picnicking is a great way to enjoy the natural surroundings. There are open meadows and riverside spots perfect for a picnic lunch. TikTok

There's no regular schedule for food trucks within the park. It's best to plan your meals before or after your visit. TikTok

The open meadows and areas near the river access points offer scenic and comfortable spots for picnics. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The riverside trails offer beautiful natural light and scenic views of the Chattahoochee River, especially during golden hour. TikTok+1

Yes, with patience, you can capture images of turtles and muskrats near the water. Early mornings or late afternoons are often best. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light for photography, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Check with the park service. TikTok

A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river views, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cochran Shoals is a fantastic choice for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The easy-to-navigate trails are perfect for little legs, and the chance to spot wildlife like turtles and muskrats is a huge hit with kids. TikTokReddit+1 Pack a picnic to enjoy in the open meadows, and take advantage of the available water fountains and restrooms for a comfortable outing. It's a great way to encourage an appreciation for nature in a safe and accessible environment. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Bring your furry friend along to Cochran Shoals! The park is dog-friendly, with plenty of scenic trails for you and your leashed companion to explore. Reddit The riverside paths offer a refreshing environment for a walk, and the open spaces are great for dogs to enjoy. Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists

Cochran Shoals is a great spot for a bike ride. You can bring your own bicycle and enjoy the paved and unpaved trails. TikTokReddit While some trails offer a more rugged experience, the main routes are suitable for a leisurely ride. Some TikToks suggest the possibility of bike rentals, so it's worth checking local options if you're visiting without your own bike. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Chattahoochee River

Cochran Shoals is a prime location for experiencing the Chattahoochee River. The riverside trails provide a tranquil setting for walks and jogs, offering serene views of the water. For the more adventurous, the Akers Mill Trail parking area is a popular launch point for tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding down the river. It's crucial to check the river flow rates before embarking on any water activities, as conditions can change rapidly. TikTokReddit+1

Beyond the main trails, some visitors mention discovering smaller, more rugged side trails that offer a bit more of a challenge. These can lead to different perspectives of the river and surrounding nature. Remember to be aware of your surroundings and potentially carry a map if venturing off the main paths. The river itself is a vital ecosystem, and observing the local wildlife like turtles and muskrats adds another layer to the experience. TikTokReddit

Biking and Hiking Adventures

Cochran Shoals is a fantastic destination for both biking and hiking. The park features a mix of paved and unpaved trails, catering to various fitness levels. The main routes are generally considered easy and comfortable for a leisurely walk or a steady jog. TikTokReddit

For cyclists, the trails offer a pleasant ride, with some sources even mentioning bike rental options. TikTokReddit If you're looking for a more strenuous workout, explore the smaller side trails that can involve more significant elevation changes. These offer a more challenging experience for hikers and can lead to rewarding views. Always wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of trail conditions, especially after rain. Reddit

Family and Pet-Friendly Fun

Cochran Shoals is a highly recommended spot for families and pet owners. The trails are described as walkable and beautiful for all ages, making it an ideal place for a family outing or a bonding experience with children. Reddit+1 The opportunity to see wildlife, such as turtles and muskrats, adds an element of excitement for younger visitors. TikTokReddit

Dogs are welcome at Cochran Shoals, provided they are kept on a leash. Reddit This allows for enjoyable walks and runs with your furry companions. The park's amenities, including water fountains and clean restrooms, further enhance the experience for families and those with pets, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit. Reddit

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