15 Best Off-Road Trails Near Atlanta

Atlanta has always remained a hot spot for off-roaders due to its scenic beauty and adventurous trails. This has made it among the favorite destinations for off-roaders, including beginners and moderate level off-roaders. Furthermore, the quality of trails is good, and their respective entry fees are very nominal. So, for the fans of Atlanta, we have brought the 15 best off-road trails that are located near Atlanta.

The 15 best off-road trails near Atlanta are:

1. Beasley Knob OHV trail
2. Sarah Creek Road
3. Horseshoe Ridge Road
4. Currahee Mountain Trail
5. Rocky Flats OHV Trail
6. Regency Oaks Walking Trail
7. The Doll Head
8. Path 400 Greenway Trail
9. East Palisades Off-roading Trail
10. Panther Creek Off-road Trail
11. Northside Off-road Trail
12. The Yonah Mountain Road
13. The Tray Mountain
14. Corbin Creek Off-road Trai
15. Appalachian Off-road Trail

1- Beasley Knob OHV Trail:

The number one trail on our list is Beasley Knob OHV Trail. The trail is located near Blairsville, where you can reach through 19th North. That makes its location close to Atlanta.

Coming towards the characteristics of Atlanta, the trails cover the area of 10 miles of scenic beauty and adventurous spots.

The trail is challenging because of bumps, and for this reason, the trail may not be suitable for beginners. Other than this, the trail requires a permit and an entry fee – nominal though – for drivers to enjoy the trail. The timings are from sunrise to sunset, and for this reason, no night driving is allowed. So, you have to keep that in mind.

Giving some advice to drivers, the ATVs and bikes are allowed in the trail, and that means 4×4 off-roaders have to be careful with others’ safety as well.

Furthermore, there are campsites available so keeping enough supplies is essential for the drivers planning to stay. Lastly, weather conditions change, and the trails are often closed for drivers. So, make sure you get a check of the trail before reaching out.

2- Sarah Creek Road:

The next trail on our list is Sarah Creek Road. The trail is located near Clayton and covers an area of around 9 miles. The trail is marked for beginners and has a difficulty level of ease. The drivers can easily cover the area with some water crossings and bumps that add to the beauty of the trail.

Furthermore, the trails have multiple waterfalls that are the major attraction of the trails. So, make sure that you get enough pictures for your Instagram of these beautiful sites.

Moving towards the off-road part of the trail, the trail requires enough ground clearance for the trekking vehicle. It is required due to the bumps and the water crossings. And this is what you all need to take care of while going off-road at Sarah Creek Road.

3- Horseshoe Ridge Road:

The next trail on our list is Horseshoe Creek Road. The trail’s location is in the North of Atlanta and proximity to the Dahlonega. So, for those who do not want to go far to enjoy a good off-roading experience. This trail is the answer.

Coming towards the specifications of the trail, the trail covers an area of around miles with a rocky surface. There are rocks everywhere, and for this reason, the drivers are asked to have vehicles with good ground clearance. That is just to ensure an easy and safe passage of the vehicle. To mention one thing, the trail does not require 4wd vehicles. 2wd with good suspension and ground clearance can also easily trek and cover the journey. So, this is good news for so many people with 2wd drives.

For the best experience, the trail has hiking spots and camping sites. In these sites, the drivers can camp for a night’s stay. But with a condition of no night off-roading. That’s all from Horseshoe Ridge Road.

4- Currahee Mountain Trail:

The next trail in our list has been a training destination for most World War II soldiers. The soldiers have to trek the mountain as part of their training. The name of the destination is Currahee Mountain Trail. The trail is located far northeast of Atlanta and covers an area of around 6 miles.

The trail is full of dirt and gravel that reach the mountain height. The view from the above is fabulous, and drivers of moderate level off-roading skills can easily trek the height.

Mentioning some other characteristics of the trail, the trail allows hikers and mountaineers to trek. So off-roaders with vehicles need to be extra careful of these people.

5-Rocky Flats OHV Trail:

Rocky flat OHV trail is a 4.5-mile off-road trail available for all kinds of vehicles. However, the trail is primarily being used for 4wd vehicles because there is no parking lot available for the ATVs and dirt bikes. Other than this, there are no restrooms and waiting spots for the drivers. They have to follow the one-way road and leave the trail from the other end.

The trail is a straight paved and unpaved path with a regular elevation that the driver will face. Both sides are covered with scenic beauty, with green plants covering the sides.

6- Regency Oaks Walking Trail:

Regency Oaks Walking Trail is a great place for off-roaders to visit in Atlanta. This trail offers a variety of terrains and landscapes for drivers to explore. There are also plenty of areas for drivers to test their skills and navigate tight spaces.

However, there are some restrictions on this trail that off-roaders need to be aware of. Off-roaders cannot drive on the walking trails or leave the designated paths. Drivers must also stay clear of other park visitors and respect all signage. Violating these rules can result in being asked to leave the park or getting a citation from authorities.

7- The Doll Head:

The Doll Head Off-roading Trail is a popular spot for ATV riders and dirt bikers in the Atlanta area. The trail winds its way through a series of hills and valleys, providing a challenging ride for experienced riders. The trail gets its name from the large doll head that is perched on a ledge overlooking the entrance to the trail.

Those looking for a more relaxed experience can enjoy the views from the picnic area near the trailhead. The Doll Head Off-roading Trail is open from sunrise to sunset, and helmets are required for anyone riding on the trail. Be sure to check out the other trails in this area, including the Rattlesnake Ridge Trail and the Lazy Dog Trail.

8- Path 400 Greenway Trail:

Path 400 Greenway Trail is a multi-use trail in Atlanta, Georgia, connecting several neighborhoods with the BeltLine. The trail is popular with runners, cyclists, and dog walkers. It is also used as a transportation corridor for commuting to work or school.

The trail was built on an old railroad line abandoned in the late 1990s. The Atlanta BeltLine Partnership worked with the city of Atlanta and private donors to fund the trail’s construction. Path 400 opened to the public in 2014.

Since its opening, Path 400 has become one of Atlanta’s most popular trails. It has been named one of the best urban trails in the United States by Runner’s World magazine. The trail has also been featured in national publications such as The New York Times and Forbes.

9- East Palisades Off-Roading Trail:

East Palisades is an off-roading trail located in the state of Georgia. The trail is situated on the eastern side of the Chattahoochee River, and it offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding area.

The trail is perfect for those who love to explore and discover new places, and it is also a great place to take your four-wheel drive vehicle for a spin. There are many different sections of the trail that you can explore, and each one has something different to offer.

Whether you want to challenge yourself with some difficult terrain or enjoy a leisurely drive, East Palisades has something for everyone.

10- Panther Creek Off-Road Trail:

Panther Creek off-roading trail is a great place for those who love the thrill of off-roading. The trail is about four miles long, and it features a variety of different terrain that will test your driving skills. The trail is also great for hiking and mountain biking.

The Panther Creek off-roading trail is located in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, so you can enjoy some beautiful scenery while you’re driving or hiking. And if you’re looking for something else to do while you’re in the area, be sure to check out the nearby towns of Dahlonega and Cleveland. They both have plenty of restaurants and shops to keep you entertained.

So, if you’re looking for a fun, challenging off-road trail to check out, be sure to visit Panther Creek!

11- Northside Off-road Trail:

North Side Off-roading Trail is one of the most popular off-roading trails in the United States. The trail is located in Winchester, Virginia, and spans over 4,000 acres.

The trail is well known for its challenging terrain, making it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts. The trail is also home to numerous natural landmarks, including the Shenandoah River and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The North Side Off-roading Trail was first opened in 1997. The trail was created due to a collaboration between the Winchester Parks and Recreation Department and the Shenandoah Valley 4Wheelers Club. Since its inception, the trail has become a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts from all over the country.

12- The Yonah Mountain Road:

The Yonah Mountain off-roading trail is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest and is open to all vehicles. However, some areas are only accessible by 4×4 vehicles. This trail is perfect for those who want to test their driving skills and enjoy a challenging drive. Several creek crossings and rocky sections will make your heart race.

The Yonah Mountain off-roading trail is a great way to experience the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. So, whether you’re an experienced driver or just getting started, be sure to check out this trail. You won’t be disappointed.

13- The Tray Mountain:

The Tray Mountain off-roading trail is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest and is a popular destination for off-roaders from all over the country. The trailhead can be accessed from either GA-180 or FS-44. Once at the trailhead, there is a small parking area where vehicles can be left.

The Tray Mountain off-roading trail is approximately 4 miles long and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The trail winds its way through the forest, with several steep climbs and descents. There are also a few creek crossings, which can be difficult in wet weather.

The trail is rated as a moderate to difficult trail, with some sections being extremely challenging. The trail is open to all vehicle types, but 4×4 vehicles are strongly recommended.

14- Corbin Creek Off-Road Trail:

The trail begins its ascent up Tray Mountain at the trailhead. The first section of the trail is a moderate climb, with small rocks and creek crossings. The next section of the trail is more challenging, with several steep climbs and descents. The trail then winds its way through the forest, offering great views of the surrounding area.

The final section of the trail is the most challenging, with several tight squeezes and steep climbs. The trail concludes at the summit of Tray Mountain, where hikers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding area.

Hikers should be aware that there are no on-site facilities or services. Hikers should pack plenty of water and snacks, as well as a first-aid kit.

15- Appalachian Off-Road Trail:

The Appalachian Trail is a world-famous hiking trail that stretches from Georgia, USA, to Maine, USA. The trail passes through the Appalachian Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. The trail is rated as a difficult hike, with some sections being extremely challenging. The trail is open to all hikers, but experienced hikers are strongly recommended.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and stunning views, Tray Mountain or the Appalachian Trail are the perfect destinations for you!

Also Read:

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What are the rules of the off-road trails near Atlanta?

The rules of the trails vary depending on the trail, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations before you go. In general, though, you should always stay on the trails, avoid damaging plants and wildlife, and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What should I do if I get lost on an off-road trail?

If you get lost on an off-road trail, it’s important to stay calm and think things through. Try to remember the last landmark you passed, or if you’re using a GPS unit, try to orient yourself using the map.

How can I find an off-road trail near me?

You can find an off-road trail near you using a trail finder tool like AllTrails.com. Simply enter your location and the type of trail you’re looking for, and the website will generate a list of options in your area.