Exploring the Big Creek Greenway Bike Trail Near Atlanta

The Big Creek Greenway Bike Trail is one of the most popular paved multi-use trails in the metro Atlanta area. If you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting and want an easy way to get into nature without driving hours into the mountains, this greenway is a practical, family-friendly option.

While the trail itself runs through Alpharetta, Roswell, and Cumming (Forsyth County), it’s close enough to Atlanta that many city residents treat it as their “go-to” escape for biking, walking, running, and casual outdoor time.

What Is the Big Creek Greenway?

The Big Creek Greenway is a mostly flat, paved, multi-use trail that follows Big Creek through north metro Atlanta suburbs. It’s designed for:

• Biking
• Walking and jogging
• Stroller walks
• Rollerblading and skating
• Nature watching

Most of the greenway is a concrete or asphalt path about 12 feet wide, with sections of boardwalk elevated over wetlands. It offers a very different feel from urban Atlanta trails like the BeltLine, trading city views for shady woods, creeks, and wildlife.

Where It Is in Relation to Atlanta

From Downtown Atlanta, you’re generally looking at:

• Around 25–35 minutes by car to the Roswell/Alpharetta sections (depending on traffic)
• Around 35–50 minutes to the Forsyth County sections

It’s one of the more accessible “nature-style” trails for Atlanta residents who don’t want to drive to North Georgia state parks every weekend.

Main Sections of the Big Creek Greenway

The Big Creek Greenway isn’t one single uninterrupted segment from end to end. Instead, it’s made up of connected and planned sections in different jurisdictions.

1. Roswell & Alpharetta Greenway (Closest to Atlanta)

This is the part of the Big Creek Greenway most commonly used by people coming from Atlanta.

Key trailheads and access points include:

• Big Creek Park – Roswell
  1600 Old Alabama Rd, Roswell, GA 30076
  Popular for: Mountain bike trails nearby, paved greenway access, parking, restrooms (availability can vary), and shaded sections.

• North Point Parkway Area – Alpharetta
  Several access points near North Point Mall and Mansell Road. Look for trailhead parking areas signed “Big Creek Greenway.”
  Popular for: Easy access from GA 400, shopping/dining nearby, flat stretches ideal for cyclists and runners.

• Rock Mill Park – Alpharetta
  3100 Kimball Bridge Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30022
  Popular for: Restrooms, pavilions, water, and a family-friendly starting point.

From these Atlanta-adjacent locations, you can bike or walk several miles of continuous greenway, mostly through shaded trees and wetlands.

2. Forsyth County Greenway (Cumming Area)

Farther north, Forsyth County maintains additional stretches of the Big Creek Greenway closer to Cumming, with multiple access points. These sections are popular with serious cyclists, fitness walkers, and families in the northern suburbs.

If you’re coming from the Atlanta city core, you’ll usually reach the Roswell/Alpharetta sections first, but the Forsyth stretches offer a slightly quieter, more rural feel.

How Long Is the Big Creek Greenway?

Exact total mileage can change as new segments are completed, but generally:

• The Roswell/Alpharetta corridor offers about 8–10+ miles of paved trail, depending on which start and end points you use.
• The Forsyth County corridor adds several more miles north of that.

Some segments are connected, while others are still separated by gaps or road crossings, so many riders choose a specific out-and-back route instead of trying to ride everything in one shot.

If you’re planning a long-distance ride from Atlanta, it’s wise to:

• Check local government websites for current trail maps and any closures
• Decide which trailhead you’ll start from and how far you want to go before turning around

Why Atlanta Cyclists and Walkers Love This Trail

Easy, Flat Riding

Compared with hilly intown neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, or Grant Park, the Big Creek Greenway is:

• Relatively flat, with gentle grades
• Great for beginners, kids, and casual cyclists
• Ideal for steady-distance rides and training runs

If you like the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail but want more shade and a greener environment, the Big Creek Greenway will feel familiar but quieter and more nature-focused.

Shaded and Scenic

Much of the trail runs through:

• Wooded areas
• Creekside corridors
• Wetlands with boardwalks

You’ll often see:

• Deer
• Birds (including hawks and herons)
• Turtles and small wildlife

It’s a noticeable change from the more urban feel of downtown, Midtown, and BeltLine corridors.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

On weekends, you’ll see:

• Families with strollers
• Kids learning to ride bikes
• Walkers and joggers of all ages

Because it’s a dedicated multi-use path, you’re separated from car traffic, which many Atlanta parents prefer over riding on city streets.

Getting There from Atlanta

Driving from Atlanta

Your route will usually depend on where in the city you’re starting.

Common approaches:

• From Downtown / Midtown Atlanta

  • Take I-85 North to GA 400 North
  • Exit near Northridge Rd, Holcomb Bridge Rd, Mansell Rd, or Haynes Bridge Rd depending on the section you want
  • Head toward Roswell or Alpharetta trailheads such as Big Creek Park or Rock Mill Park

• From Buckhead or Sandy Springs

  • Shorter drive up GA 400 North
  • Access Roswell/Alpharetta segments from Holcomb Bridge Rd, Northridge Rd, or Mansell Rd exits

Parking is typically available at official trailheads such as Big Creek Park and Rock Mill Park, but on busy weekends, lots can fill quickly.

Public Transit Options

Public transit access from central Atlanta is limited:

• MARTA rail does not extend directly to the greenway trailheads.
• You may be able to combine MARTA (to North Springs station) + rideshare to reach nearby trailheads, especially in Roswell or Alpharetta.

If you don’t have a car in Atlanta, plan on either:

• A rideshare directly from your location to a trailhead, or
• A mix of MARTA + rideshare for a cheaper trip.

What to Expect on the Trail

Trail Surface and Width

• Mostly paved concrete or asphalt
• Some boardwalk sections over wetlands (can be slick when wet)
• Generally wide enough to comfortably pass other users

This makes it suitable for:

• Road bikes
• Hybrid bikes
• Fitness bikes
• Many types of mobility devices

Crowd Levels

Expect:

• Weekends and pleasant-weather evenings: More crowded, especially near Roswell/Alpharetta trailheads
• Early mornings or weekdays: Quieter, better for uninterrupted riding or running

If you’re used to the BeltLine’s crowds near Ponce City Market, you’ll likely find the Big Creek Greenway busy but more relaxed.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Atlanta’s climate means the greenway is often usable year-round, but:

• Summer: Hot and humid, but shade helps; bring plenty of water
• Spring/Fall: Most pleasant for biking and walking
• After heavy rain: Low areas and boardwalks can be slick, and some segments may temporarily close due to flooding

Safety and Trail Etiquette

To keep things smooth for everyone:

• Stay to the right, pass on the left
• Announce passes with a bell or voice (“On your left”) 🚴
• Keep dogs leashed and close to your side
• Avoid blocking the trail when stopping—step to the side
• Keep kids and beginner riders to the right and coach them about looking behind before swerving

For personal safety:

• Bring water, especially in warmer months
• Use lights and reflectors if you’re near dawn/dusk
• Consider not riding alone at very isolated times, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with the area
• Follow posted rules from City of Roswell, City of Alpharetta, or Forsyth County Parks & Recreation, depending on where you are

If you have any concerns or want to report maintenance issues, you can contact the local parks departments, such as:

• Roswell Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs Department
  38 Hill St, Roswell, GA 30075
  Main line: (770) 641-3705

• Alpharetta Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services Department
  175 Roswell St, Alpharetta, GA 30009
  Main line: (678) 297-6100

(Phone numbers and locations can change over time, so it’s wise to verify before visiting.)

Biking the Big Creek Greenway: What You Need to Know

Types of Bikes That Work Well

Most Atlanta riders find the greenway comfortable on:

• Hybrid or fitness bikes – A great all-around choice
• Road bikes – Pavement is generally smooth enough
• Comfort bikes or cruisers – Good for slower, scenic rides
• Kids’ bikes and trailers – The flat grades are kid-friendly

Heavier-duty mountain bikes are also fine, especially if you plan to explore nearby soft-surface trails (for example, Big Creek Park has separate mountain bike trails). Just know that a light, geared bike is often more comfortable for longer rides.

Typical Ride Distances from Popular Trailheads

These are general ranges. Adjust based on your fitness and comfort level.

Helmets and Gear

In Georgia:

• Bicycle helmets are required by law for riders under 16
• Helmets are strongly recommended for adults for safety

Helpful items to bring:

• Water bottle or hydration pack
• Small bike tool kit and spare tube
• Basic first-aid supplies
• Sun protection (even with shade)
• Bug spray, especially in warmer months near wetlands

Walking, Running, and Non-Bike Use

You don’t have to be a cyclist to enjoy the Big Creek Greenway. Many Atlanta residents use it for:

• Daily walks or jogs
• Pushing strollers with kids
• Low-impact exercise
• Birdwatching and photography

If you’re a runner coming from city neighborhoods like Midtown, West Midtown, or Old Fourth Ward, the greenway offers:

• Longer uninterrupted miles than many city streets
• Gentler elevation than running through Atlanta’s hills
• A cooler, shaded route in summer

To share the path safely:

• Walkers/joggers generally stay to the right side
• Groups should avoid walking more than two abreast when it’s busy
• Be aware of faster cyclists, especially on weekends

Amenities and Facilities

What you find can vary by trailhead, but commonly available features include:

• Parking lots at major access points
• Restrooms at larger parks like Rock Mill Park or Big Creek Park (hours and availability may vary)
• Water fountains or refill stations at some parks
• Benches and rest areas along the way
• Picnic tables or pavilions at park trailheads

Since amenities can change or be temporarily closed, many regulars from Atlanta bring:

• Their own water
• Snacks or light food
• Hand sanitizer or wipes for after using public facilities

Planning a Day Trip from Atlanta

If you want to make the Big Creek Greenway a day trip from the city, consider:

1. Choose a trailhead:

   • For a first-time visit from Atlanta, Big Creek Park (Roswell) or Rock Mill Park (Alpharetta) are convenient and well-known.

2. Decide your activity level:

   • Casual family walk or ride? Plan 1–2 hours.
   • Fitness ride or long run? 2–4+ hours, depending on your route.

3. Check the weather:

   • Summer afternoons can be hot and stormy; early morning is often best.

4. Plan food and rest stops:

   • The trailheads near North Point area and Alpharetta put you close to plenty of dining options if you want a meal before or after.

5. Pack smart:

   • Water, light snacks, sun protection, and a charged phone are usually enough for casual outings.

How the Big Creek Greenway Compares to Other Atlanta Trails

If you already use other Atlanta trails, here’s how this one fits into the mix:

• Atlanta BeltLine (Eastside/Westside Trails)

  • Urban, lively, many businesses immediately adjacent
  • More crowded and social; less “deep nature” feeling
  • More stop-and-go due to intersections and crossings

• Silver Comet Trail (west of Atlanta)

  • Much longer and more rural as you go farther out
  • Great for serious long-distance cycling
  • Farther drive for many intown residents compared to Roswell/Alpharetta

• Big Creek Greenway

  • Suburban/nature corridor feel
  • Shorter drive for many northside and intown Atlanta residents
  • Excellent for moderate rides, family outings, and daily exercise

For many people in Atlanta, the Big Creek Greenway is the “sweet spot” when they want something more natural than the BeltLine, but closer and less intense than an all-day Silver Comet outing.

Who Manages the Big Creek Greenway?

Different segments are maintained by different local governments:

• City of Roswell – Manages portions around Big Creek Park and nearby access points.
• City of Alpharetta – Oversees parts of the trail near Rock Mill Park, North Point, and related segments.
• Forsyth County Parks & Recreation – Manages sections farther north toward Cumming.

If you want the most current information on:

• Trail closures or construction
• Maps specific to a segment
• Rules and permitted uses

you can contact:

• City of Roswell – Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs
  38 Hill St, Suite 100, Roswell, GA 30075
  Main line: (770) 641-3705

• City of Alpharetta – Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services
  175 Roswell St, Alpharetta, GA 30009
  Main line: (678) 297-6100

• Forsyth County Parks & Recreation
  110 E Main St, Suite 100, Cumming, GA 30040
  Main line: (770) 781-2215

These offices can typically provide up-to-date maps, event information, and general guidance for visitors coming from Atlanta.

If you’re in Atlanta and want a bike- and pedestrian-friendly trail with a more natural feel than the BeltLine, the Big Creek Greenway Bike Trail is a practical, easy-to-reach option. With shaded paths, creek views, and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s one of the most accessible ways to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the metro area.