Exploring the Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail: A Local’s Guide

The Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail is one of the city’s most exciting urban greenways—a paved, multi-use trail that connects historic Westside neighborhoods, public art, parks, and emerging food and drink spots. Whether you live nearby, are visiting from out of town, or are trying to understand how the BeltLine works on the Westside, this guide walks through what to expect and how to make the most of it.

What Is the Westside Trail?

The Westside Trail is a paved segment of the larger Atlanta BeltLine, built on former railroad corridors that loop around the city’s core.

Key points:

• Purpose: Walking, jogging, biking, dog-walking, commuting, and community gatherings
• Trail type:Concrete, multi-use urban trail (no cars)
• General feel: Industrial history meets new development, murals, and tree-lined stretches
• Location: Runs through Southwest Atlanta, roughly parallel to Lee Street, Murphy Avenue, and the Adair Park / West End area, connecting several neighborhoods

The Westside Trail is especially useful if you:

• Live in or near West End, Adair Park, Oakland City, Capitol View, or Ashview Heights
• Want a less touristy option than the Eastside Trail
• Prefer a trail with shade, parks, and neighborhood character

Where the Westside Trail Runs

The Westside Trail is being built in phases. The original section is fully open and very popular; newer extensions are gradually connecting toward other BeltLine segments.

Main Open Segment (Core Westside Trail)

While exact mileage can vary across sources, locals generally know the core Westside segment as running:

• North end: Near Washington Park and the Ashby MARTA Station area
• Through: West End, Adair Park, and surrounding neighborhoods
• South end: Toward the Westview / Oakland City area

There are marked trailheads and entrances along cross-streets and parks. As the BeltLine builds out, the Westside Trail is connecting progressively to:

• Westside Park (to the north, via other trail segments)
• Southside Trail (eventually creating a larger loop)

If you’re new to the area, think of it as the BeltLine arm that runs through the historic Westside and Southwest neighborhoods, as opposed to the Eastside stretch around Inman Park and Ponce.

Getting to the Westside Trail

One of the Westside Trail’s strengths is its accessibility without a car.

By MARTA

Several MARTA rail stations put you close to trail access:

• West End Station (Red/Gold Line)
  • Short walk or bike to entrances near the West End neighborhood and Lee Street
• Ashby Station (Blue/Green Line)
  • Connects you to the northern portion of the Westside Trail near Washington Park
• Oakland City Station (Red/Gold Line)
  • Useful for reaching the southern stretches of the trail and nearby neighborhoods

Using MARTA plus a personal bike or e-scooter can be one of the easiest ways to enjoy the trail without worrying about parking.

Driving and Parking

Parking around the Westside Trail is mostly street parking and small lots, often near:

• Parks along the trail
• Neighborhood streets in West End, Adair Park, and Westview
• Nearby business districts

Tips:

• Don’t block driveways or access to homes—many streets are residential.
• Read signs carefully; some areas may have time limits or permit requirements.
• On busy weekends, consider parking a little farther away and walking in.

What You’ll See Along the Westside Trail

The Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail offers a mix of:

1. Neighborhoods and Architecture

You’ll pass through or near:

• West End: Historic homes, churches, and a mix of long-time residents and new businesses
• Adair Park & Capitol View: Bungalows, industrial buildings converted into studios and offices
• Westview & Oakland City: Classic residential streets, local shops, and community spaces

The trail gives a window into everyday life on Atlanta’s Westside, not just tourist highlights.

2. Parks and Green Spaces

Expect small and mid-sized parks that connect directly or very closely to the trail, where locals:

• Take kids to playgrounds
• Walk dogs
• Relax on benches or picnic in shaded areas

These parks often serve as good entry/exit points and landmarks when planning your route.

3. Public Art and Murals

Like other BeltLine segments, the Westside Trail regularly features:

• Murals on retaining walls, underpasses, and adjacent buildings
• Installations and sculptures from rotating art programs
• Small performances or pop-up events at certain times

If you appreciate street art and creative spaces, this is a strong draw.

4. Cafés, Breweries, and Food Options

While the Westside Trail is less densely packed with businesses than the Eastside Trail, you’ll still find:

• Coffee shops and cafés within a short walk
• Breweries and casual dining options
• Food trucks or pop-ups during events or busy weekends

These spots can be handy “anchors” when meeting friends or planning a longer outing.

How People Use the Westside Trail

The Westside Trail functions as both a recreation space and a transportation corridor.

Common uses:

• Walking and jogging: Smooth pavement, gentle grades, and shaded stretches
• Bicycling: Commuters, leisure riders, and families with kids
• Dog walking: Frequent, especially near residential segments
• Community meetups and group walks/runs: Local clubs and organizations often use the trail

Because it connects neighborhoods rather than just entertainment hubs, you’ll see a wide range of ages and activity levels.

Safety, Etiquette, and Trail Tips

The Westside Trail is generally busy enough during daylight to feel active, but it’s still an urban trail. Being aware and considerate goes a long way.

Basic Trail Etiquette

• Stay to the right; pass on the left.
• Announce when passing (a simple “On your left” helps avoid surprises).
• Keep pets leashed and close, not stretched across the trail on long leashes.
• If walking in a group, avoid blocking the full width of the path.
• Slow down near intersections, driveways, and blind curves.

Safety Considerations

• Daytime and early evening are usually the most active times.
• At night, the trail has lighting in many sections but not all; some people prefer to travel in pairs or groups after dark.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially near road crossings.
• If biking or scootering, consider lights and reflective gear in low light.

For emergencies on or near the BeltLine, residents typically call 911 and clearly state they are on the Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail near the closest cross-street or landmark.

When to Go: Weather, Seasons, and Crowds

Atlanta’s climate shapes the best times to enjoy the Westside Trail.

• Spring (March–May): Very popular—mild temps, blooming trees, and more events.
• Fall (September–November): Comfortable weather and colorful foliage; a favorite time for longer walks and bike rides.
• Summer (June–August): Can be hot and humid.
  • Go early morning or later in the evening.
  • Hydration and sunscreen are especially important.
• Winter (December–February): Generally mild. You may just need a jacket; the trail often stays usable year-round.

Weekends, especially in nice weather, tend to be busier, but the Westside Trail is usually less crowded than the Eastside Trail, making it attractive if you prefer a bit more space.

Accessibility and Amenities

The Westside Trail is designed to be accessible and family-friendly.

Trail Surface and Access

• Paved, mostly flat concrete path suitable for:
  • Wheelchairs and mobility devices
  • Strollers
  • Bikes and scooters
• Many entrances are at or near street level, with ramps and gradual slopes rather than stairs.

Restrooms, Water, and Seating

Amenities can vary by segment, but commonly nearby you’ll find:

• Restrooms within adjacent parks or public facilities
• Water fountains in some park areas (not at every trailhead)
• Benches and seating areas along or just off the path

For longer outings, it can be helpful to:

• Identify a couple of parks or businesses along your route where you can stop for restrooms or water
• Bring your own water bottle, especially in warm weather

Using the Westside Trail for Commuting

For many Atlantans, the Westside Trail is more than recreation—it’s part of a daily commute.

Typical commuter patterns:

• Bicycling between West End, Adair Park, and downtown or Midtown (using a mix of trail and on-street connections)
• Walking from neighborhoods to MARTA stations for rail access
• Using the trail to reach workplaces or coworking spaces located just off the BeltLine

If you’re considering a bike commute:

• Scout your route on a weekend first.
• Note where the trail crosses major streets.
• Consider a U-lock and lights if you’re leaving a bike parked or traveling at dawn/dusk.

Events and Community Life on the Westside Trail

The BeltLine often serves as a hub for community events, especially during spring and fall.

On or near the Westside Trail, you may see:

• Group fitness classes, group runs, or walking clubs
• Community markets or neighborhood festivals close to trail access points
• Art walks and informal tours of murals and installations

If you live nearby, keeping an eye on announcements from:

• Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.
• City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation
• Neighborhood associations in West End, Adair Park, Capitol View, and Westview

can help you discover local activities tied to the trail.

Quick-Glance Guide to the Westside Trail

Helpful Local Contacts and Resources

If you want more detailed maps, project updates, or to report maintenance issues, these official Atlanta entities are central to the BeltLine and its trails:

• Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.
  100 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 2300
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Main phone (commonly listed): (404) 477-3003
  Handles planning, construction updates, and public information about the BeltLine.

• City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation
  233 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 1700
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  General information: (404) 546-6813
  Oversees many parks and public spaces that connect to or sit along the BeltLine.

• MARTA Customer Information Center (for transit access to the trail)
  2424 Piedmont Road NE
  Atlanta, GA 30324
  Information line: (404) 848-5000

These offices can provide up-to-date information about trail conditions, future extensions, nearby parks, and transit connections that affect how you use the Westside Trail.

Whether you’re walking your dog after work, planning a weekend bike ride, or figuring out a car-free route across the city, the Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail is a practical, scenic way to experience Atlanta’s Westside neighborhoods up close.