Exploring Paces Mill at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Atlanta

Paces Mill is one of the most popular and accessible units of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA), and it sits right by Cumberland and The Battery Atlanta. If you live in metro Atlanta or you’re visiting the city and want quick river access, this is one of the easiest spots to reach.

Below is a practical guide to what Paces Mill is, where it is, what you can do there, and how it connects with nearby Cumberland and The Battery.

Where Paces Mill Fits in Atlanta

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a series of separate park units stretching along the Chattahoochee north of Atlanta. Paces Mill is the southernmost unit and the one closest to:

• Cumberland business district
• The Battery Atlanta and Truist Park
• I-75 and I-285

If you think of CRNRA as a chain of river parks, Paces Mill is the “gateway” unit for intown and northwest Atlanta residents.

Location, Directions, and Basic Info

General Location:
Paces Mill is in the Vinings / Cumberland area, just across the river from northwest Atlanta neighborhoods.

Typical GPS entry:
Search for “Paces Mill Unit – Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area” in most map apps. It’s off Paces Mill Road SE, near the intersection of Cobb Parkway (US-41) and Paces Mill Road.

Park Management (for general park info):
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is managed by the National Park Service (NPS).

• Main Park Headquarters (for the overall CRNRA):
  • 1978 Island Ford Parkway
  • Sandy Springs, GA 30350
  • Phone: 678-538-1200

You don’t usually need to contact the headquarters before a casual visit, but this is a useful number if you have questions about permits, closures, or safety conditions.

Parking, Fees, and Hours

Paces Mill has a large paved parking area with access to the boat ramp, picnic spots, and trails.

Typical patterns you can expect:

• Hours:

  • The park unit generally opens in the morning around sunrise and closes around sunset.
  • Gates may be locked after hours, so don’t leave your car overnight unless you have explicit permission.

• Parking / Use Fees:

  • CRNRA units, including Paces Mill, generally require a daily parking or entrance fee per vehicle, or an accepted national park pass.
  • You usually pay at an on-site kiosk or pay station in the parking lot.
  • Have a card or small bills ready, as payment methods can vary or change.

• Crowds:

  • Weekends and warm days can fill up fast, especially late morning to mid-afternoon.
  • Early mornings are usually quieter, with better chances of easy parking and calmer river access.

✅ Tip: Plan some extra time for parking when the Braves have home games at Truist Park or there are major events at The Battery, as traffic in the Cumberland area can slow your trip in or out.

What You Can Do at Paces Mill

Paces Mill is popular because it offers a little bit of everything—water access, casual hiking, and places to sit by the river—without a long drive from central Atlanta.

1. Walking and Easy Hiking

Paces Mill is one of the more beginner-friendly units in CRNRA.

Common experiences include:

• Paved or gravel paths around the parking and picnic areas
• Riverside trails where you can walk along the Chattahoochee
• Short routes that connect to other segments of the Chattahoochee River trail system

Trails in this unit are generally moderate to easy, with some uneven or rooted areas closer to the water. They’re suitable for:

• Casual walkers and joggers
• Families with older kids
• People looking for a quick nature break before or after time at Cumberland Mall or The Battery Atlanta

If you need very flat, stroller-friendly paths, expect to stay closer to the main access areas and paved sections.

2. River Access: Kayaking, Rafting, and Floating

Paces Mill is a key put-in and take-out point for people enjoying the Chattahoochee.

Common patterns:

• Boat Ramp:

  • Suitable for launching kayaks, canoes, and small rafts.
  • Used by both individual paddlers and commercial outfitters that operate outside the park.

• Typical Trips:

  • Many locals use Paces Mill as the end point for downstream paddles that start at upriver CRNRA units.
  • Some use it as a convenient launch point for short, out-and-back trips.

• River Conditions:

  • The Chattahoochee here is cold year-round, even in summer.
  • Water levels and currents can change quickly, especially with releases from Buford Dam upstream.

🛶 Safety Tips for Atlanta Paddlers:

• Wear a properly fitted life jacket.
• Avoid going out alone if you’re unfamiliar with the river.
• Check current river conditions before you go; the National Park Service and the local water management agencies provide updated information.
• Expect rocks, shoals, and occasional strong currents even when the surface looks calm.

3. Fishing

Paces Mill is a popular spot for shore and wade fishing.

What locals often target here:

• Trout (especially closer to the dam-influenced cold water)
• Other common river species such as bass and catfish

If you plan to fish:

• You must have a valid Georgia fishing license that covers the type of fishing you’re doing.
• Pay attention to posted regulations about bait, limits, and special rules that may apply along this stretch of the Chattahoochee.

Because the river is cold and can have slippery rocks, wading boots, a wading staff, and layered clothing are commonly used by regulars.

4. Picnicking, Relaxing, and River Watching

You don’t have to be a paddler or angler to enjoy Paces Mill. Many Atlanta residents come just to sit by the river and unwind.

Common amenities typically include:

• Picnic tables and open grassy areas
• Benches and river overlooks
• Shaded areas under trees
• Restrooms (availability and exact condition can vary; they may close for maintenance or seasonally)

This makes Paces Mill a good choice when:

• You want a low-key outdoor meet-up spot not far from Cumberland or The Battery
• You’re looking for an easier nature outing with visitors who aren’t used to long hikes
• You have a bit of time before a game or show and want to be outdoors instead of in a shopping center

How Paces Mill Connects to Cumberland and The Battery

Paces Mill’s location is a major part of its appeal.

Quick Access from Key Atlanta Spots

From nearby hubs:

• From The Battery Atlanta / Truist Park:
  • The drive to Paces Mill is typically short—often just a few minutes, depending on traffic.
• From Cumberland Mall area:
  • Paces Mill is effectively in the same district, just across or down the road toward the river.
• From Midtown / Downtown Atlanta:
  • Reachable via I-75 north or Northside Parkway/US-41, making it a convenient half-day outing.

This means you can:

• Spend the day at the river and go to a Braves game at night.
• Meet friends at The Battery, then head to Paces Mill for a short walk or picnic.
• Add a morning paddle before working or shopping in the Cumberland area.

Facilities and On-Site Services

While exact features can change over time, visitors commonly find the following at Paces Mill:

Typical Amenities at Paces Mill

Because this is a national recreation area unit, you won’t find the same level of commercial services inside the park that you would at The Battery or Cumberland. For food, coffee, and gear, most people stop at businesses nearby before or after visiting.

Rules, Safety, and What to Know Before You Go

Being prepared makes a big difference, especially with Atlanta’s changing weather and river conditions.

General Park Rules You’re Likely to Encounter

• Stay on established trails to protect riverbanks and avoid erosion.
• Dogs are typically allowed on leash; always clean up after pets.
• Alcohol restrictions often apply—check posted signs carefully.
• Respect quiet hours and park closing times.
• Follow all posted safety and fishing regulations for the Chattahoochee.

Because this is a national recreation area, enforcement is handled by federal park rangers. Tickets and fines can be issued for violations, especially around permits, safety rules, and after-hours parking.

Safety Tips Specific to the Chattahoochee Near Cumberland

• Cold Water: Even on a 95°F Atlanta day, the river water can be surprisingly cold. Hypothermia is possible with prolonged exposure, especially for young children or anyone not dressed for the conditions.
• River Flow Changes: Releases from upstream can raise water levels and currents. The river can move from relatively shallow to fast and deep more quickly than many visitors expect.
• Slippery Rocks: Expect algae and slick rock surfaces both in and near the water. Stable footwear is more important here than at some city parks.

If you’re new to the area, it’s wise to start with a short visit, stay close to the main access points, and observe how the river looks at different times of day.

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips

Use these Atlanta-focused tips to make your time at Paces Mill smoother and more enjoyable:

• 🕒 Watch traffic windows:

  • Try to avoid peak rush hours around the I-75/I-285 interchange. Late morning and early afternoon are often easiest for driving and parking.

• 🧥 Dress for two climates:

  • Air above the river can feel warm; the water is much colder. If you plan to wade, paddle, or stand near the water for long, bring layers.

• 🧺 Pack like you’re going to a basic park, not a resort:

  • Water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and basic first-aid items are commonly recommended.
  • Consider a towel and a change of clothes if kids (or adults) may play near the water.

• 📍 Pair it with nearby destinations:

  • For a full day, many people combine Paces Mill with:
    • Lunch or dinner at The Battery Atlanta
    • Shopping in the Cumberland area
    • An evening event at Truist Park or nearby venues

• 📲 Check for alerts before you go:

  • Look up Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area on official channels for any temporary closures, construction, or weather-related advisories that might affect Paces Mill.

Who Paces Mill Is Best For in Atlanta

Paces Mill is especially appealing if you:

• Live in Cumberland, Vinings, Smyrna, Buckhead, or northwest Atlanta and want a nearby nature escape
• Are visiting Atlanta and staying near The Battery Atlanta and want to see the Chattahoochee without a long drive
• Enjoy kayaking, fishing, or casual riverside walks
• Want a low-stress, flexible outdoor option that can be added onto a shopping, dining, or game-day plan

For Atlantans, Paces Mill offers an easy way to step away from interstates and office towers and reconnect with the river that defines the city’s northern edge—without leaving the metro area.