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

The Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail is one of the city’s most popular places to walk, bike, people‑watch, and connect with some of Atlanta’s best neighborhoods. If you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting and want to experience the city at street level, this is one of the top things to do in Atlanta.

Below is a practical, Atlanta-focused guide to what the Eastside Trail is, where it goes, how to access it, and how to make the most of your visit.

What Is the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail?

The Eastside Trail is a paved, multi-use path that runs along a former railroad corridor on the east side of Atlanta. It is part of the larger Atlanta BeltLine, a developing 22‑mile loop of trails, parks, and transit planned around the city.

Key features of the Eastside Trail:

• Paved, wide path suitable for walking, jogging, biking, and scooters
• No cars on the trail itself (street crossings are controlled by signals or crosswalks)
• Connects popular intown neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, Virginia‑Highland, Poncey‑Highland, and Midtown
• Lined with murals, public art, restaurants, bars, and shops

If you want a feel for how Atlanta has transformed old industrial spaces into lively public areas, this is where to go.

Where the Eastside Trail Runs & Main Access Points

The Eastside Trail runs generally north–south, linking several major destinations. Exact mileage can change as construction continues, but most locals think of it as the stretch connecting:

• Piedmont Park / 10th Street area (north)
• Through Ponce City Market and Historic Fourth Ward Park
• Down toward Memorial Drive / Reynoldstown area (south)

You can access the trail from many cross streets. Some of the most commonly used entry points are:

Popular Access Points (North to South)

• Monroe Drive / 10th Street (near Piedmont Park & Midtown)

  • Good if you’re coming from Piedmont Park or Midtown.
  • Near the Atlanta BeltLine Center and other trail information spots.

• Ponce City Market area

  • One of the busiest stretches of the Eastside Trail.
  • Multiple ramps and stairways lead from Ponce City Market up/down to the trail.
  • Great for food, coffee, and people‑watching.

• Ralph McGill Blvd NE / Historic Fourth Ward Park

  • Close to Historic Fourth Ward Park, with its lake and playground.
  • Good entry point if you’re parking near the park.

• Elizabeth Street / Inman Park

  • Convenient to Inman Park homes, restaurants, and the Inman Park/Reynoldstown MARTA Station (about a half‑mile walk).

• Irwin Street / Krog Street Market

  • Near Krog Street Market and the entrance to the Krog Street Tunnel with its famous street art.
  • Very popular for dining before / after a stroll.

• Wylie Street / DeKalb Avenue / Memorial Drive (Reynoldstown)

  • Southern connections where the Eastside Trail meets the BeltLine’s Southside and Eastside extensions.
  • Good if you’re coming from Reynoldstown or Cabbagetown.

Getting to the Eastside Trail Without a Car

You do not need a car to enjoy the Eastside Trail. Many Atlantans use MARTA, scooters, bikes, or walking to get there.

By MARTA

While the trail does not have its own station, several MARTA stations are within walking or biking distance:

• Inman Park/Reynoldstown Station (Blue/Green Line)

  • Walk west along Dekalb Avenue and cut north to the trail near Krog Street Market or Irwin Street.

• Midtown Station (Red/Gold Line)

  • Walk or bike east on 10th Street toward Piedmont Park, then connect to the trail near Monroe Drive.

• North Avenue Station (Red/Gold Line)

  • A bit farther, but you can walk or bike through Midtown toward Ponce City Market.

For MARTA information, you can contact:

• Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA)
  2424 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
  Phone: 404‑848‑5000

By Bike or Scooter

The Eastside Trail is bike‑ and scooter‑friendly. Many people:

• Ride in from nearby neighborhoods on city streets
• Use shared scooters or bikes often found near Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market, and Midtown

⚠️ On weekends and nice evenings, the trail can be crowded. If you’re biking or on a scooter, ride slowly and be prepared to stop often.

What You Can Do on the Eastside Trail

The Eastside Trail is both a recreational trail and a social destination. Here are some of the most common things Atlantans do there:

1. Walk, Jog, or Run

The trail’s smooth, mostly flat surface works well for:

• Casual strolls with friends or family
• Daily jogs or longer runs
• Pushing strollers or using mobility devices

Early mornings and weekdays are typically less crowded, making it easier for joggers and distance runners.

2. Bike or Rollerblade

Cyclists and rollerbladers use the trail to commute, exercise, or just explore:

• The paved surface makes it comfortable for most skill levels.
• The scenery shifts from industrial lofts to leafy parks and murals.

On busy days, be courteous: call out when passing and slow down near families, dogs, and pedestrians.

3. Eat, Drink, and Shop

A major draw of the Eastside Trail is its connection to some of Atlanta’s favorite food and drink spots. While specific businesses change over time, the trail passes right by:

• Ponce City Market – Food hall, retail, rooftop entertainment, and a direct connection to the trail
• Krog Street Market – Indoor market with restaurants, bars, and specialty shops
• Numerous coffee shops, breweries, and patios in Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and along Ponce de Leon Avenue

Many people plan a loop walk between Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market, stopping for coffee on one end and dinner or drinks on the other.

4. Explore Parks & Public Art

The Eastside Trail is lined with murals, sculptures, and rotating art installations as part of the BeltLine’s arts program. You’ll also have easy access to:

• Historic Fourth Ward Park – Lake, playground, splash pad, and lawn area
• Small pocket parks and lawns directly off the trail

Art and park spaces make the trail appealing for photography, picnics, and relaxed afternoons.

Family-Friendly Tips for the Eastside Trail

The Eastside Trail is popular with families, especially on weekends.

Helpful pointers:

• Strollers: The trail is paved and stroller‑friendly, with multiple ramped entrances.
• Play Areas:
  • The playground and open lawns at Historic Fourth Ward Park
  • Spaces near Ponce City Market often draw families.
• Bathrooms: Use restrooms inside nearby businesses or public facilities in larger destinations such as Ponce City Market or parks. It’s wise to plan stops before you start a longer walk.
• Crowd Levels: If you’re visiting with small children, mornings or weekday afternoons are often calmer and easier to navigate.

Safety, Etiquette, and Accessibility

The Eastside Trail is designed as a shared space, so a few habits help keep it comfortable for everyone.

Trail Etiquette

• Stay to the right, pass on the left.
• Announce when passing (“On your left”) if you’re biking or running.
• Keep dogs on short leashes; avoid long retractable leashes across the path.
• Use headphones at low volume so you can hear others around you.
• Dispose of trash in bins; pack out what you bring in.

Safety Considerations

• The trail is generally active and well used, particularly in daylight.
• At street crossings, obey traffic signals and stay in crosswalks.
• At night, stick to well‑lit, busier segments and be aware of your surroundings.

For non‑emergency city concerns related to lighting, maintenance, or minor incidents on or near public spaces, many residents contact ATL 311:

• Phone: 404‑546‑0311

For emergencies, call 911.

Accessibility

The trail is paved and mostly level, with several ramped access points. Some entrances are stair-only, especially around bridges and older segments, so if you’re using a wheelchair, stroller, or mobility device, look for:

• Ramps near major intersections and large destinations (e.g., Ponce City Market, Historic Fourth Ward Park).
• Gently graded connections where the trail meets cross streets.

If you need more detailed accessibility information for specific segments, you can reach out to the main BeltLine organization.

When to Visit the Eastside Trail

The Eastside Trail is open year‑round and has a different feel at different times.

Time of Day

• Early morning: Quieter, cooler, popular with runners and commuters.
• Midday: Steady activity; good for sightseeing and families.
• Evening: Livelier, especially near restaurants and bars; more of a social scene.

Day of Week

• Weekdays: Less crowded, easier for longer bike rides or runs.
• Weekends: Very popular; expect heavy foot traffic on nice days.

Weather Tips 🌤️

• Atlanta heat and humidity can be intense in summer. Bring water, sun protection, and light clothing.
• After rain, the paved surface is usually usable, but some nearby dirt paths or park areas can be muddy.
• Spring and fall are often the most comfortable seasons for long walks.

Sample Eastside Trail Itineraries

To help you picture how a visit might look, here are a few common ways Atlantans use the trail:

1. Classic “Ponce to Krog” Stroll

• Start at Ponce City Market
• Walk south along the Eastside Trail
• Stop at Historic Fourth Ward Park for photos or a short break
• Continue to Krog Street Market for lunch or dinner
• Optional short detour through the Krog Street Tunnel to see street art
• Walk or rideshare back, or return along the same route

2. Morning Run with Park Break

• Begin near Monroe Drive / 10th Street or Piedmont Park
• Run south on the trail toward Old Fourth Ward
• Loop through Historic Fourth Ward Park
• Head back north, grab coffee at Ponce City Market or another nearby café

3. Family Afternoon Walk

• Park near Historic Fourth Ward Park or use MARTA to reach Inman Park/Reynoldstown and walk over
• Let kids play at the park’s playground or open lawns
• Take a short walk up or down the trail, watching for public art
• Stop for snacks at a nearby market or café

Practical Information & Local Contacts

While specific hours for businesses and facilities along the Eastside Trail vary, the trail itself is typically treated as a public outdoor space open daily, with usage most common during daylight and early evening hours.

If you need official information, maps, or updates on construction and closures, you can contact or visit:

Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.
100 Peachtree St NW, Suite 2300
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: 404‑477‑3003

For city services related to parks, sidewalks, and nearby public spaces, you may also interact with:

City of Atlanta – Department of Parks and Recreation
72 Marietta St NW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Main City Line: 404‑330‑6000

Quick Reference: Eastside Trail at a Glance

If you’re looking for an Atlanta attraction that combines exercise, food, art, and neighborhood energy in one place, the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail is one of the city’s most rewarding stretches to explore.