Exploring the PATH Silver Comet Trail from Atlanta: What Locals and Visitors Should Know

The PATH Silver Comet Trail is one of the most popular long-distance greenways accessible from metro Atlanta. It offers miles of paved trail for biking, walking, running, skating, and family outings, starting just west of the city and stretching all the way toward the Alabama state line.

If you live in Atlanta—or you’re visiting and want to get outside—the Silver Comet is one of the best ways to experience a long, uninterrupted trail without leaving the region.

What Is the PATH Silver Comet Trail?

The Silver Comet Trail is a multi-use, paved rail-trail that starts in Smyrna, Georgia (just northwest of Atlanta) and runs west through Cobb, Paulding, and Polk counties.

Key features:

• Paved surface, typically 12-foot wide
• Open to bicycles, walkers, runners, skaters, and strollers
• Generally gentle grades, since it follows an old rail corridor
• Connects communities west of Atlanta and links to Alabama’s Chief Ladiga Trail, creating one of the longest continuous paved trails in the region

Although the trail itself starts outside the City of Atlanta limits, it’s considered part of the broader PATH Foundation network of trails that many Atlantans use for recreation and commuting.

Where the Silver Comet Starts (Closest Access to Atlanta)

If you’re coming from Atlanta, your most common starting point will be the eastern trailhead in Smyrna.

Main Eastern Trailhead (Smyrna)

• Name: Silver Comet Trailhead – Mavell Road
• Approximate area: Near the East-West Connector and South Cobb Drive, in Smyrna
• Driving from Atlanta:
  • From downtown or Midtown, most people use I-75 North, then connect via I-285 and local roads into Smyrna.
• Typical amenities (can vary by trailhead):
  • Parking
  • Restrooms (at many, but not all, access points)
  • Trail maps and information boards

Because this trailhead is just outside the Perimeter, many Atlanta residents treat it like an extension of the city’s trail system, similar to the BeltLine or PATH trails inside Atlanta.

Getting from In-Town Atlanta to the Silver Comet

If you’re based in Midtown, Downtown, Decatur, or other intown neighborhoods, here are practical ways to reach the Silver Comet:

By Car

Most people drive to a trailhead:

• Use a navigation app to search for “Silver Comet Trail – Mavell Road Trailhead” in Smyrna.
• Allow extra time on weekends and nice-weather days; parking lots can fill up quickly.

By Transit + Bike (General Approach)

While there is no MARTA rail station directly on the Silver Comet, some riders:

1. Take MARTA rail to a western station (such as Arts Center, Midtown, or Five Points if they’re starting by bike in town).
2. Ride from Atlanta through westside neighborhoods and into Cobb County, then pick up local routes to the Smyrna trailhead.

This option is best for confident cyclists comfortable riding in traffic and navigating suburban roads. Routes and comfort levels vary, and conditions can change, so most casual users still prefer to drive.

What You Can Do on the PATH Silver Comet Trail

The PATH Silver Comet Trail is designed to support a wide range of activities. Many Atlantans use it for:

Biking

• Road bikes, hybrids, and e-bikes are common.
• The trail’s long, relatively flat stretches are ideal for:
  • Fitness rides
  • Longer-distance training
  • Beginner-friendly biking away from car traffic

Walking and Running

• Many locals use the Silver Comet for:
  • Long walks and jogs
  • Training for races or marathons
  • Group walks and running clubs
• The paved surface is more predictable than natural dirt trails and is easier for some strollers and mobility aids.

Skating and Scootering

• Inline skaters and kick scooters are often seen, especially near the more popular trailheads.
• The smooth pavement and gentle grades make it suitable for most wheeled users who are comfortable on longer distances.

Family Outings

• Families from across metro Atlanta use the Silver Comet for:
  • Kid-friendly biking on a car-free path
  • Short walks with strollers
  • Picnics at nearby parks and rest areas

Because of its length, you can tailor your outing: a quick 2–3 mile walk, a 10-mile out-and-back ride, or a much longer journey if you’re prepared.

How the Silver Comet Compares to Other Atlanta Trails

Atlanta has several major trail systems, and understanding how the Silver Comet fits in helps you choose the right experience.

Quick Comparison for Atlanta Users

If you want urban energy, skyline views, and food stops, the BeltLine or other in-town PATH segments are better options. If you want a long, relatively uninterrupted ride or run in a more rural-feeling setting, the Silver Comet is a strong choice.

Access Points and Sections Popular with Atlantans

You don’t have to ride or walk the entire trail to enjoy it. Many Atlantans focus on specific sections that are easier to reach or better match their comfort level.

Eastern Section (Closest to Atlanta)

• Starts in Smyrna and continues into Cobb and Paulding counties.
• Popular for:
  • First-time visitors
  • Shorter rides and runs
  • Weekday workouts for nearby residents

This section is typically busier than the more remote western stretches.

Middle and Western Sections

Farther west, the trail moves through:

• Wooded areas, creeks, and road crossings
• More rural-feeling landscapes

These areas attract:

• More experienced cyclists
• People training for longer distances
• Those looking for quieter, less crowded segments

If you’re driving from Atlanta, you can also choose mid-trail access points that offer parking and trail entry. Local counties along the trail often maintain their own parks and trailhead parking lots.

What to Expect on the Trail

Surface and Difficulty

• Surface: Paved (asphalt or similar)
• Difficulty: Generally easy to moderate, mostly flat with gentle grades
• Use: Multi-use, so you share the trail with various users moving at different speeds

Because the slopes are gradual, the Silver Comet is often more approachable than hilly streets in Atlanta neighborhoods, especially for new cyclists.

Crowds and Peak Times

From an Atlanta user’s perspective:

• Busy times:
  • Weekend mornings and afternoons on nice days
  • Holidays and spring/fall weekends
• Quieter times:
  • Weekdays
  • Early mornings or late afternoons

If you’re new to trail cycling or bringing children, many people prefer earlier in the day before the trail gets crowded.

Safety and Trail Etiquette

Although the Silver Comet is off-road and car-free along most of its length, safety and courtesy still matter.

Basic Trail Etiquette

• Stay to the right, except when passing.
• Announce passes (“On your left”) and pass with space.
• Keep pets on a short leash and under control.
• Walk or ride no more than two abreast when it’s busy.
• Keep music volume low or use only one earbud so you can hear others.

Safety Tips for Atlanta Users 🚴‍♀️

• Bring water and snacks. Trailheads may have fountains, but not all segments have frequent services.
• Know your turnaround point. Distances add up quickly; turn back before you’re exhausted.
• Be visible. Many users wear bright clothing or use bike lights, especially if it’s cloudy or near dusk.
• Weather-aware. In summer, start early to avoid heat, and watch for thunderstorms common in the Atlanta area.

If you’re used to shorter loops like Piedmont Park or the Eastside BeltLine, remember that the Silver Comet can take you far from your car quickly—plan accordingly.

Planning a Visit from Atlanta

A bit of planning goes a long way, especially if you’re driving out from the city.

What to Bring

For a typical Atlanta-to-Silver-Comet day trip:

• Water bottle or hydration pack
• Comfortable walking or running shoes, or a well-maintained bike
• Helmet if you’re biking (commonly used and strongly recommended)
• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Basic bike tools and a spare tube if you’re riding
• Charged phone for maps and emergencies

Family and Group Considerations

For families and groups from Atlanta:

• Choose a trailhead with restrooms and parking.
• Start with short out-and-back distances so kids and newer riders don’t get over-tired.
• Agree on meeting spots if the group gets separated.

How the PATH Foundation Fits In

The PATH Foundation is a nonprofit that has helped create many of Atlanta’s most popular greenways, including links that connect to the Silver Comet corridor.

For Atlantans, that means:

• The Silver Comet is part of a larger vision of connected trails extending from the city to the suburbs and beyond.
• Many in-town PATH segments can serve as “training grounds” before tackling longer distances on the Silver Comet.
• You’ll often see consistent signage and design elements across PATH projects, making it easier to recognize official trails.

Who the Silver Comet Is Best For (From an Atlanta Perspective)

The PATH Silver Comet Trail is especially appealing if you:

• Live in Atlanta but want longer-distance biking or running without mixing with car traffic.
• Are visiting Atlanta and want a day trip that combines nature, exercise, and a break from the city.
• Have already enjoyed the Atlanta BeltLine, Freedom Park Trail, or other in-town greenways and want something quieter and more expansive.
• Prefer paved, accessible surfaces rather than more rugged hiking trails.

For many metro residents, the Silver Comet becomes a “next step” after they’ve outgrown shorter loops inside the city.

Practical Next Steps If You’re in Atlanta

If you’re ready to experience the PATH Silver Comet Trail:

1. Pick your access point.
   Most Atlantans start at or near the Smyrna trailhead (eastern end).
2. Decide your distance.
   First-timers often plan a 5–10 mile total walk or ride before trying longer trips.
3. Check the weather and daylight.
   Plan to be off the trail before dark unless you’re equipped with proper lights.
4. Bring what you need.
   Water, basic supplies, and appropriate clothing for Atlanta’s often hot and humid conditions.
5. Follow posted rules and local guidance.
   Different counties along the trail may have specific regulations or information boards at trailheads.

Used this way, the PATH Silver Comet Trail gives Atlanta residents and visitors access to a long, scenic, and car-free corridor just a short trip from the city—whether you’re out for a casual stroll or a serious day on the bike.