Exploring the PATH Stone Mountain Trail: Atlanta’s Scenic Corridor from City to Summit

The PATH Stone Mountain Trail is one of metro Atlanta’s most popular paved greenways, connecting intown neighborhoods to Stone Mountain Park along a mostly off-road, multi-use path. If you live in Atlanta, are visiting, or are planning an active day trip, this trail is a practical way to bike, run, or walk between the city and one of Georgia’s best-known landmarks.

Below is everything you need to know about where it goes, how to access it, and how to enjoy it safely and comfortably.

What Is the PATH Stone Mountain Trail?

The PATH Stone Mountain Trail is a paved, multi-use trail built and maintained by the PATH Foundation and local partners. It’s designed for:

• Walking and running
• Cycling and e-biking (where allowed)
• Skating and stroller use

The trail functions as a kind of “linear park” and commuter route, linking city neighborhoods east of Downtown Atlanta with Decatur, Clarkston, and Stone Mountain before reaching Stone Mountain Park.

Key characteristics:

• Surface: Mostly concrete or asphalt, suitable for road bikes, hybrids, wheelchairs, and strollers.
• Use: Shared by pedestrians, cyclists, and families; some sections feel more urban, others more wooded and park-like.
• Distance: Commonly estimated around 19 miles from central Atlanta to Stone Mountain Park, depending on your exact starting point.

Where the Stone Mountain Trail Runs in Metro Atlanta

While there are small routing variations and connector segments, most riders and walkers experience it in three main sections:

1. Intown Atlanta to Decatur

This is the most urban stretch, often used by commuters and city riders.

Typical access points include:

• Downtown / Edgewood area (Atlanta)
  Many people pick up the trail near the MLK Jr. Historic District and nearby intown streets that connect to the PATH system.

• Kirkwood & East Lake neighborhoods
  The trail weaves alongside residential streets and parks, with several easy access points from neighborhood sidewalks.

Highlights of this section:

• Intown views, city neighborhoods, and occasional street crossings.
• Access to local cafes and shops not far off the trail.

2. Decatur to Clarkston

This stretch feels like a blend of small-town main streets and green corridor.

Common jump-on points:

• Near Downtown Decatur
  Decatur serves as a popular “midpoint” for cyclists coming from Atlanta or heading to Stone Mountain.
• Clarkston area parks
  Public parks and neighborhood streets near Clarkston give access to the path, often with nearby parking.

Expect:

• More greenery than the intown stretch.
• A mix of quiet neighborhood routes and sections of separated trail.

3. Clarkston to Stone Mountain Park

From Clarkston eastward, the trail gradually becomes more suburban and wooded, eventually leading into Stone Mountain Village and then to Stone Mountain Park.

Key endpoints and landmarks:

• Stone Mountain Village
  Historic downtown area adjacent to the park, with restaurants and shops a short detour away.
• Stone Mountain Park entrance (U.S. Highway 78 area)
  The trail reaches the park’s main area, where you can continue riding or park your bike and explore on foot.

Inside Stone Mountain Park, cyclists and pedestrians often use:

• Paved park roads (shared with cars)
• Designated trails and path segments
• Access to the Walk-Up Trail (for hiking on foot only—no bikes)

How to Access the PATH Stone Mountain Trail from Atlanta

Because the Stone Mountain Trail crosses multiple jurisdictions, there isn’t a single “front door.” Instead, think in terms of practical access spots, based on how you’re getting there.

Getting There by Car

Popular areas to start your ride or walk include:

• Decatur area
  Many people park on neighborhood streets or in public parking areas in and around downtown Decatur, then ride east or west along the trail. Check posted signs for time limits or permit requirements.

• Clarkston parks
  Parks in and near Clarkston often provide parking lots close to the trail, which is useful if you want to avoid intown traffic.

• Stone Mountain Village / Stone Mountain Park
  If you’d like to do the trail in reverse (starting at the mountain), park in Stone Mountain Village or at official Stone Mountain Park parking areas.

  • Stone Mountain Park’s main address:
    Stone Mountain Park
    1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd
    Stone Mountain, GA 30083

  Parking fees may apply inside the park; village street parking rules vary, so always check posted signs.

Getting There by MARTA

The Stone Mountain Trail doesn’t run directly through a MARTA station, but several stations are within rideable distance to trail access.

Common MARTA-based approaches:

• From Downtown Atlanta (Five Points or Peachtree Center stations)
  You can bike on city streets to catch an intown connector to the Stone Mountain Trail. This is best for experienced city riders comfortable in traffic.

• From East Lake or Decatur stations (Blue Line)
  These stations place you closer to the central segments of the trail. From either station, it’s usually a short on-street or side-street ride to reach a PATH connection.

For exact on-street routing, many riders use paper maps, posted PATH signs, or digital maps to plan the safest low-traffic route from the station to the trail.

Using the Trail: What to Expect

Trail Surface and Difficulty

• Surface: Mostly paved and smooth, but expect some cracks, tree-root bumps, and occasional rougher sections.
• Grade: Generally rolling. There are hills, especially closer to Stone Mountain, but nothing like a serious mountain climb.
• Skill level: Accessible to beginners, but total distance can be substantial if you’re doing a longer out-and-back ride from Atlanta to Stone Mountain.

Typical Users

On any given day, you might see:

• Cyclists commuting or training
• Parents with strollers
• Runners and walk groups
• Families and casual riders

Because it’s a shared-use trail, slower and faster users mix together, so communication and courtesy go a long way.

Safety and Etiquette on the Stone Mountain Trail

Safely sharing the trail is one of the biggest concerns for both new and experienced users. There are some widely used practices that help keep things smooth:

Basic Trail Etiquette

• Stay to the right; pass on the left.
• Use a bell or your voice (“On your left”) when passing slower users.
• Keep dogs leashed and close to your side; avoid long, retractable leashes that can trip cyclists.
• Don’t block the path. If you’re stopping to rest, take photos, or check your phone, move off to the side.
• Control your speed. Some downhill areas and blind curves require slowing down, especially for cyclists and skaters.

Safety Tips 🛟

• Wear visible clothing, especially near street crossings or in shaded areas.
• Use lights if you’re out near dusk or dawn, even on a paved trail.
• Obey street crossings and signals wherever the trail meets roads.
• Watch for driveways and side streets – some trail segments briefly run alongside or cross low-traffic roads.

If you’re new to trail riding, many people start with a shorter segment, such as Decatur to Clarkston, before attempting the full route to Stone Mountain.

Amenities and Services Along the Trail

Water, Restrooms, and Food

The Stone Mountain Trail passes near neighborhoods, commercial areas, and a major park, so there are generally options nearby, but they are not spaced like highway rest areas.

Common approaches:

• Plan your water: Many riders carry bottles and refill at parks, convenience stores, or restaurants along or just off the route.
• Restroom access: Often found at city parks, Stone Mountain Park facilities, or businesses you’re patronizing.
• Food/coffee stops:
  • Intown neighborhoods and Decatur have numerous cafes and restaurants within blocks of the trail.
  • Stone Mountain Village has restaurants and small shops convenient for a pre- or post-ride meal.

Because amenities can vary by exact access point, it’s smart to plan your general stops ahead of time, especially if you’re riding with kids.

Biking the PATH Stone Mountain Trail: Planning Your Ride

Popular Ride Options

1. Decatur to Stone Mountain Park (and back)

   • Ideal for: Intermediate riders
   • Experience: Suburban neighborhoods, green segments, and a satisfying finish at the base of the mountain.

2. Short family ride near Clarkston or Stone Mountain Village

   • Ideal for: Families and casual riders
   • Experience: Park nearby, ride a short out-and-back, and turn around when kids start to tire.

3. Full Atlanta–Stone Mountain round trip

   • Ideal for: More experienced riders with good fitness
   • Experience: A long, mostly paved corridor that shows off a cross-section of metro Atlanta, from intown to historic stone monolith.

What to Bring on a Longer Ride

• Helmet (strongly advised)
• Water bottles or hydration pack
• Small repair kit (tube, tire levers, pump or CO₂, multi-tool)
• ID and payment method for emergencies or food stops
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Map or phone with mapped route in case signage isn’t obvious in some sections

Walking and Running on the Stone Mountain Trail

You don’t need a bike to enjoy the Stone Mountain Trail. Many Atlantans use it for daily walks, training runs, or weekend strolls.

Best Approaches for Walkers and Runners

• Pick a central access point with parking, like a park or commercial area near the trail (Decatur, Clarkston, or Stone Mountain Village are common choices).
• Decide on a time-based out-and-back: walk or run 20–30 minutes out, then turn around.
• For runners training for distance, combining the Stone Mountain Trail with nearby neighborhood streets or park loops can create longer routes while keeping things relatively safe and scenic.

Because of mixed use:

• Stay aware of bikes approaching from behind.
• Avoid walking more than two abreast when the trail is busy.
• Use reflective gear and lights if you’re out early or late.

Weather, Seasons, and When to Go

Atlanta’s climate makes the Stone Mountain Trail usable most of the year, but conditions vary by season.

Seasonal Considerations

• Spring and Fall
  Often the most comfortable, with milder temperatures and colorful scenery. Also popular, so expect more traffic during peak hours.

• Summer
  Can be hot and humid. Many locals ride or run early in the morning or closer to sunset to avoid heat. Shade varies by segment, so plan water and rest stops accordingly.

• Winter
  Usually rideable, but cold snaps and occasional rain can make the trail slippery. Dress in layers and watch for wet leaves or slick surfaces in shaded areas.

In all seasons, sudden thunderstorms can roll through, so checking the forecast before a longer outing is wise.

Accessibility and Inclusive Use

Many portions of the PATH Stone Mountain Trail are relatively accessible to people using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or adaptive bikes:

• Paved surface with gentle grades along much of the corridor.
• Access points vary in quality—some have curb cuts and parking nearby, others may be more challenging.

If accessibility is a priority:

• Consider starting from larger park areas or more developed trailheads, such as those near Decatur or Stone Mountain Park, where you’re more likely to find ramps, paved parking, and restrooms designed for wider access.
• Scout your chosen access point ahead of time, either by driving by or using updated satellite and street-level imagery, to ensure it meets your needs.

Local Agencies and Contacts

Several entities have roles in building, maintaining, or supporting the PATH Stone Mountain Trail and surrounding infrastructure.

Useful points of contact include:

• PATH Foundation (headquarters)
  112 Krog St NE, Suite 7
  Atlanta, GA 30307
  Phone: (404) 875-7284
  They are closely associated with many PATH trails and can provide general guidance, maps, and updates.

• City of Decatur – Public Works
  2635 Talley St
  Decatur, GA 30030
  Phone: (404) 377-5571
  Helpful for questions about trail-adjacent streets, signage, or maintenance in the Decatur portion.

• City of Stone Mountain
  875 Main St
  Stone Mountain, GA 30083
  Phone: (770) 498-8984
  Relevant for issues or questions around the Stone Mountain Village area.

• Stone Mountain Park
  1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd
  Stone Mountain, GA 30083
  Main phone (general information): (770) 498-5690
  Contact the park for details on parking, park road use, and pedestrian access once you reach the park via the trail.

For immediate hazards on the trail (downed trees, major damage, etc.), many users report them to a combination of the PATH Foundation and the local city or county public works department that maintains the surrounding right-of-way.

Quick-Reference: PATH Stone Mountain Trail at a Glance

The PATH Stone Mountain Trail gives Atlanta residents and visitors a direct, human-powered way to travel from city streets to Stone Mountain’s iconic granite dome. With a bit of planning—choosing your access point, packing water, and respecting shared-use etiquette—you can turn it into anything from a short neighborhood walk to a full-day cycling adventure from Atlanta to the mountain and back.