Silver Comet Trail Cycling: A Practical Guide for Atlanta Riders

The Silver Comet Trail is one of the most popular places for cycling near Atlanta. Whether you live in the city or you’re visiting and want a safe, scenic place to ride, this paved rail-trail offers a long, car-free route that starts just west of Atlanta and stretches all the way to the Alabama state line.

Below is a practical, Atlanta-focused guide to cycling the Silver Comet Trail: how to get there, what to expect, safety tips, and how it connects with local riding and cycling clubs.

What Is the Silver Comet Trail?

The Silver Comet Trail is a paved, multi-use path built on a former rail corridor. It runs from Smyrna, Georgia, just outside Atlanta, west through Cobb, Paulding, and Polk counties to the Alabama border, where it connects with Alabama’s Chief Ladiga Trail.

Key features for cyclists:

• Paved asphalt surface
• Largely flat to gently rolling grades
• Separated from car traffic
• Open to bikes, walkers, runners, skaters, and families with strollers
• Access points with parking, restrooms, and trailheads along the way

For most Atlanta cyclists, the Silver Comet is appealing because it offers long, uninterrupted riding with no traffic lights and very little interaction with cars.

Where the Trail Starts Near Atlanta

The main Atlanta-area entry point is the Mavell Road Trailhead in Smyrna.

Mavell Road Trailhead
4573 Mavell Rd
Smyrna, GA 30082

This trailhead is the eastern terminus of the Silver Comet Trail and is the most common starting point for people coming from Atlanta.

From Atlanta, many riders:

• Drive to the Mavell Road Trailhead and park
• Ride from in-town using local streets and bike routes (more advanced and road-savvy riders)
• Combine MARTA + bike to get closer, then ride to the trailhead

If you’re staying in central Atlanta (Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead), driving to Smyrna is usually the simplest option, especially if you’re bringing family or newer cyclists.

Getting From Atlanta to the Silver Comet Trail

By Car

From central Atlanta, the Mavell Road Trailhead is usually about 20–35 minutes away, depending on traffic.

Typical route from Downtown/Midtown:

1. Take I-20 West or I-75 North to I-285 (Perimeter).
2. Exit toward South Cobb Drive (GA-280) in Smyrna.
3. Continue on South Cobb Drive, then turn onto Concord Road SE.
4. Follow signs/your GPS to Mavell Road and the official Silver Comet Trail parking lot.

There are additional trailheads farther west (such as Concord Road, Floyd Road/Silver Comet Depot, Hiram, and Rambo) if you want a shorter or more rural ride.

By Bike From In-Town Atlanta

Experienced cyclists sometimes ride from in-town to the Silver Comet using a combination of:

• Surface streets through West Midtown or Westside
• Neighborhood routes in Smyrna and Vinings

Because routes change and traffic conditions vary, local riders often:

• Consult Atlanta-area bike route maps
• Ask for route suggestions from local bike shops or cycling clubs
• Use mapping apps with bike-friendly routing

If you’re unfamiliar with metro Atlanta traffic, it’s usually safer and less stressful to drive to the trailhead and start your ride there.

What to Expect on the Silver Comet Trail

Trail Surface and Difficulty

• Surface: Smooth asphalt, suitable for road bikes, hybrids, gravel bikes, and many e-bikes
• Elevation: Mostly gentle grades, with a few notable climbs and descents, especially farther west
• Skill level:
  • Great for beginners and families near Smyrna, where the trail is busier and amenities are closer.
  • Good for intermediate and advanced riders who want longer distance and higher speeds out past Hiram and Rockmart.

Length and Typical Ride Distances

The full trail length from Smyrna to the Alabama line is roughly 60+ miles one way. Many Atlanta riders break it into segments instead of attempting the entire route.

Common ride options:

• Casual/Family: 5–15 miles out and back from Mavell Road or Floyd Road
• Fitness Ride: 20–40 miles out and back (e.g., Mavell Road to Hiram and back)
• Long Ride / Training: 60–100+ miles, often going well past Hiram toward Rockmart or Cedartown

Popular Silver Comet Access Points Near Atlanta

Below is a quick overview of commonly used trailheads starting from the Atlanta side.

Times are approximate and depend on traffic.

Silver Comet Cycling Experience by Section

Smyrna to Floyd Road

• Good for: New riders, families, social rides
• Characteristics:
  • More trail users
  • Easier access to restrooms, food, and parking
  • Gentle rolling terrain

Floyd Road to Hiram

• Good for: Fitness riders, casual training
• Characteristics:
  • Less crowded than Smyrna section
  • A mix of wooded stretches and residential/commercial areas
  • Still plenty of daylight riders and regular use

Hiram to Rockmart and Beyond

• Good for: Endurance rides, more experienced cyclists
• Characteristics:
  • More remote feel
  • Longer stretches without services
  • Several scenic bridges, tunnels, and more noticeable elevation changes

If you are starting from Atlanta and have limited time, many riders turn around somewhere near Hiram or Dallas for a 30–50 mile round trip.

Safety Tips for Cycling the Silver Comet

Even though the trail is away from car traffic, you still need to ride with awareness.

Key safety practices:

• Helmet: Strongly recommended for all riders.
• Stay right, pass left: Announce “On your left” when passing.
• Speed control: Keep your speed safe around blind curves, pedestrians, and kids.
• Lights and visibility:
  • Use a front white light and rear red light if riding near dusk or in shaded sections.
  • Bright or reflective clothing helps other users see you.
• Hydration and nutrition:
  • Bring enough water, especially in the Atlanta summer heat.
  • Longer rides beyond Hiram may require extra snacks and water.
• Check the weather:
  • Storms can move quickly in the Atlanta area.
  • Wet leaves and bridges become slick.
• Know your limits:
  • The trail is long; plan an achievable distance and turn around in time to comfortably return.

Trail Etiquette and Sharing the Path

The Silver Comet Trail is multi-use, so cyclists share it with runners, walkers, children, and sometimes pets.

Basic etiquette:

• Yield to pedestrians when necessary and pass with a wide berth.
• Keep pets leashed (if you bring one) and close to your side.
• No earbuds at full volume while riding; you should hear people around you.
• Stop off to the side if you take a break or adjust equipment.
• Respect posted signs about speed, closures, and maintenance.

Following local norms keeps the trail safer and more enjoyable for everyone, especially closer to Atlanta where use is heavier.

Seasonal Considerations for Atlanta Riders

Summer (Hot and Humid)

• Start early in the morning to avoid peak heat.
• Bring extra water; there are only certain points with fountains.
• Expect more trail users, especially on weekends.

Fall and Spring (Most Popular)

• Comfortable temperatures and colorful scenery.
• Parking lots at Mavell Road and Floyd Road can fill on sunny weekends.
• Ideal time for longer rides from Atlanta.

Winter

• Generally rideable, but mornings can be cold and sometimes icy in shaded spots.
• Shorter daylight hours—plan your timing carefully.

Connecting With Running and Cycling Clubs in Atlanta

The Silver Comet is a frequent destination for Atlanta-area cycling and running clubs, often used for group rides, training sessions, and organized outings.

Why Local Clubs Use the Silver Comet

• Traffic-free environment for group riding
• Long stretches ideal for endurance training
• Predictable terrain for pace lines and interval work
• Safer place for newer riders to practice in a group before mixing with full city traffic

Finding Group Rides and Clubs

Common Atlanta-based options include:

• Road cycling clubs that schedule weekend or early-morning rides on the Silver Comet
• Triathlon clubs that use the trail for long brick workouts
• Running clubs that host long runs on the early sections of the trail

To find current group rides that go to the Silver Comet, many Atlanta residents:

• Ask at local bike shops in Atlanta, Smyrna, and the Westside
• Search for Atlanta cycling clubs and check their posted ride calendars
• Connect with community groups that organize weekly or monthly Silver Comet rides

When you join a group ride, make sure you understand:

• Starting location (some begin in town and ride to the trail; others meet at a trailhead parking lot)
• Pace level and distance (choose a group that matches your current fitness)
• Required gear and safety expectations

Services and Amenities Along the Trail

While the Silver Comet feels relatively separated from urban Atlanta, you’re never too far from basic services—especially in the eastern sections.

Common amenities you’ll encounter:

• Parking lots at designated trailheads
• Restrooms or portable toilets at many major access points
• Water fountains (not at every stop—bring your own as backup)
• Nearby convenience stores, cafes, and fast food near some trailheads such as Floyd Road and Hiram

Before a long ride, many Atlanta cyclists stop in town at:

• Local bike shops for last-minute supplies or tune-ups
• Grocery or convenience stores to stock up on water and snacks

For longer distances west of Hiram, plan your stops ahead, since services are more spaced out.

Family-Friendly and Beginner Cycling on the Silver Comet

For Atlanta families and newer riders, the Silver Comet can be a low-stress place to get comfortable on a bike.

Tips for beginners:

• Start at Mavell Road or Floyd Road, ride a short out-and-back of 3–6 miles.
• Avoid the busiest weekend midday rush if you’re nervous; early mornings are calmer.
• Keep kids to the right lane, and practice predictable riding in a straight line.
• Choose a cooler time of day in summer and bring more water than you think you’ll need.

Because it’s away from car traffic and has a consistent surface, the trail is often where Atlanta-area riders learn basic bike handling and build confidence before tackling city streets.

E-Bikes and Other Equipment Considerations

On the Atlanta side of the Silver Comet, you’ll see a mix of:

• Traditional road and hybrid bikes
• Gravel and touring bikes
• Some e-bikes and recumbent bikes
• Kids’ bikes, trailers, and cargo bikes

If you’re using an e-bike:

• Keep your speed in check, especially around families and walkers.
• Be mindful of any posted local rules about motorized devices.
• Use a bell or verbal signal when passing, just as you would on a regular bike.

For anyone riding from Atlanta, a few items are especially useful:

• Helmet and gloves
• Spare tube, pump or CO₂, and basic tools
• Front and rear lights
• Two water bottles or a hydration pack for longer rides
• Basic ID and a charged phone

How the Silver Comet Fits Into the Atlanta Cycling Scene

For many people in metro Atlanta, the Silver Comet is:

• A primary training ground for long-distance cycling without car traffic
• A gateway trail for those who are new to Atlanta and want a safe place to ride
• A way to combine recreation, fitness, and nature within a reasonable drive from the city

If you’re just moving to Atlanta, visiting, or returning to cycling after time off, starting with the Silver Comet Trail from the Smyrna end is one of the most approachable ways to get back into riding—while still staying closely connected to the Atlanta area.