Visiting the beautiful state of Georgia should always include a few outdoor adventures. This state is overflowing with amazing things to do outside, from cool parks to explore and hiking trails, to unique and thrilling adventures in the stunning wilderness. Whether you live in Georgia and are looking for a new way to connect with the state’s attractions, or you are passing through and want to experience some of the state’s natural beauty, you can find lots of ways to explore the great outdoors in Georgia.
Explore the Chattooga River
Do you love lazy days on the river? Or do you prefer whitewater rafting over fun rapids with your friends and family? Whether you like to hang out on a tube, go fishing, or have an exciting adventure, the Chattooga River offers tons of fun ways to spend a day. The river is perfect for big or small groups. You can find rental companies for tubes and small boats, or bring your own. There are many whitewater rafting companies that offer guided trips. You are allowed to bring drinks with you on the river, so you can kick back and relax no matter how you enjoy the water.
Take a Hike on Stone Mountain
If you want a day-long trip that challenges your stamina and gives your eyes amazing views to soak up, Stone Mountain is the best option near Atlanta. You can climb up the hiking trails, taking in the amazing carved artwork on the way, and when you get to the top, take a second to check out the view of Atlanta. This is a great place to get unique photos of the beauty of the area, and it’s perfect for bringing the kids out for a fun day-time activity.
The Botanical Garden in Atlanta
The Botanical Garden in Atlanta is a gorgeous place to visit if you want an oasis of nature in the midst of visiting the big city. This huge, multi-garden location was expanded in 2010, and now includes the Canopy Walk, the Cascades Garden, the Edible Garden, and more. There are frequent events like the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights in the winter, and the Valentine’s Day event. You can walk through perfectly manicured gardens, learn about both native and exotic plants, and be surrounded by relaxing nature when you visit the Botanical Garden.
Swim with the Whale Sharks
If you want to try something truly incredible, head to the Georgia Aquarium. For a hefty fee, you can strap on some diving gear and take a swim with the world’s largest fish. This is a completely amazing experience that not many people ever get to have. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the Aquarium, and then you’ll get the chance to hang out with these gentle giants underwater. This is something that is a must for anyone who lives in Atlanta, and is a definite dream to-do for visitors. It’s an experience that you’ll never forget, and you are guaranteed to get an up-close view of whale sharks. The many people who have gone before you attest to the safety of this dive, and you’ll get to see something that most people never will.
Bike Along the Silver Comet Trail
If you love to take your bike out for a spin, head to Silver Comet Trail in Smyrna. This is a 61.5-mile long trail, so you can ride as much or as little as you like. It goes from Smyrna north of Atlanta all the way to Alabama. This trail is known for stunning views of the natural beauty of Georgia, and gives access to other places to explore like Heritage Park, Concord Woolen Mills, the wetlands of Georgia, and more. You can rent a bike at the Silver Comet Depot if you don’t have one, or didn’t bring yours with you. Take the kids if you want – this paved bike trail is easy to ride no matter your skill level.
Hike Panther Creek Falls
If you are in North Georgia, you can’t miss Panther Creek Falls. This is a stunning recreational area that isn’t as well known as many of the other hiking trails, which means you’ll have a quieter time as you explore this six-mile trail. The hike is filled with 100-foot-tall trees, rock cliffs covered in moss, bursts of blooms, and the Panther Creek, which has a series of beautiful little waterfalls as well as two larger waterfalls that are very impressive. This is a difficult hike, and even though it may be shorter, it will definitely take a while. The absolutely gorgeous view at the end is definitely worth the long hike. It may not be the best place to bring the kids, but if you prefer a good workout with your outdoor fun, this is a must.
Rollerblade in Piedmont Park
What Millennium Park is to Chicago, Piedmont Park is to Atlanta. This is a 115-year-old landmark that is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon with your dog, your kids, or your significant other. You can hang out and play a game of fetch or tag, or rent a pair of rollerblades at Skate Escape and hit the trails! This is a great place to hang out outside if you love people watching. There are stunning views of the city skyline that you won’t want to miss if this is your first time visiting Atlanta. Bring a picnic lunch and spend a few hours idling in this stunning park in the city.
Spelunking at Pigeon Mountain
If you are visiting Northwest Georgia, you can’t miss the network of caves in Pigeon Mountain. Pettijohn’s Cave is a big tourist attraction that has six miles of passageways to explore. There is also a 13-mile long cave called Ellison’s Cave, which has several extremely deep pits for spelunkers who love adventures. These are only for experienced spelunkers with proper equipment, but it can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors if you love getting an up close and personal look at something that most people never see. There are also many guided tours that are appropriate for kids.
Check Out More Fun Outdoor Adventures in Georgia
These nine hot spots in Georgia are just some of the ways that you can explore the stunning beauty of the great outdoors in this state. You can also go zip lining or rock climbing, or check out historical sights like Lookout Mountain, and more. Take a walk among the historic stones at Oakland Cemetery, or explore other gardens such as Callaway Gardens. This state is filled with ways that you can reconnect with nature no matter how you like to spend your time. Add some of these places to your vacation itinerary, or plan a weekend to explore some outdoor adventures near your home in Georgia. Now get started on your next adventure and make sure you’re ready to explore by getting your cheap car insurance in Georgia here.
