From hiking and biking to getting out on the water, explore Woodstock this spring
WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA—MARCH 2024—Located just 30 minutes northwest of the Atlanta perimeter on I-75/575, Woodstock is an unexpected destination offering visitors authentic and organic experiences including interesting dining experiences, unique shopping options and loads of outdoor adventure that make it an ideal basecamp for exploring North Georgia. From fishing and watersports to hiking and biking, there’s plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in Woodstock this spring.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Olde Rope Mill Park, a hub for outdoor activities the whole family can enjoy. With close proximity to Woodstock’s Holiday Inn Express as well as other lodging accommodations, Olde Mill Rope Park area is a great spot for families to stay, play and explore for the whole weekend. Just an eight-minute drive from downtown Woodstock and only two minutes from the Outlet Shoppes, Olde Rope Mill Park is home to the Taylor Randahl Memorial Mountain Bike Trails as well as various other paths making up more than 20 miles of forested hiking and cycling trails. History buffs will enjoy learning about the park’s history through numerous historical markers highlighting the area’s past. The Rope Mill, which produced cotton ropes in the 1800s, was powered by water flowing from nearby Little River, Noonday Creek and the Etowah River. For those looking to get out on the water, visitors can access the put-in ramp inside the park and head to Lake Allatoona, located approximately 15 minutes from the park, via the Little River. Along the way, enjoy gorgeous views, access to waterfall inlets and calm waters. Need equipment? No problem! Murph’s Surf, a bike sales and kayak/paddleboard outfitter offers more than nine locations where you can reserve your kayak or paddleboard. A popular offering is a three-hour trip to the Little River Marina and back. Call ahead, then pay online and Murph’s Surf brings your paddle gear to you and arranges a pick-up time. 678-672-9917
Olde Mill Rope Park, 690 Olde Rope Mill Road, Woodstock Georgia 30188; 770-517-6788
Ten minutes from Woodstock are the southeast shores of Lake Allatoona, a 12,000-acre water-sports and fishing paradise encompassing 270 miles of shoreline. While Allatoona Lake is one of the country’s most frequently visited Army Corps of Engineers lakes (nearly seven million yearly visitors), after the summer peak boating and camping season it’s more peaceful and serene. Hike to a hidden battlefield or climb a ridge to an 1860s ironworks with a fascinating history. With its setting on Allatoona, Red Top Mountain State Park is a biking and hiker’s haven with its own unique recreation and programming. More than 15 miles of trails wind through the forested park, providing opportunities for exercise and nature photography. The gravel-topped, four-mile Iron Hill Trail is open to both hikers and bikers, offering pretty views of the lake’s shoreline.
A great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors while getting some exercise is exploring the Greenprints Trail System, a 20-mile trail system made up of a series of multi-use trails along shaded creeks in and around Woodstock. For aficionados, AllTrails.com notes 14 scenic trails in the Woodstock area, including kid-friendly; easy; scenic river and forest hikes and more. Additionally, the Noonday Creek Trail runs from the center of downtown Woodstock, allowing families to park in town and ride along the 1.43 miles at their leisure. The whole family will enjoy exploring by scooter, bike or on foot. The trail offers easy access to The Downtown Playground and Reformation Brewery’s Backyard—an added bonus for everyone!
If visiting during the summer, don’t miss Berry Patch Farms. This family -owned and -operated pick-your-own farm located in Woodstock is situated on over 50 acres of land and has been a popular destination since it opened in 1978. Visitors are invited to hand pick blueberries, pumpkins and holiday trees directly from the vine during seasonal harvests. Hosting events throughout the year, Berry Patch Farms is the perfect place to spend time with family. Admission to the farm is free, just pay for what you pick. Hours vary based on the season. Click here for more information. Berry Patch Farms, 786 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-926-0561
For something outside the box, check out Balloon Atlanta for a memorable experience that is sure to impress the whole family. Get a bird’s eye view of Atlanta and the surrounding area that everyone will be talking about for years to come—even the teens! Click here for more information.
Visiting Woodstock
Come for the arts and stay to experience so much more! Woodstock offers a variety of lodging options, spectacular dining experiences, shopping and more. Don’t miss dinner and rooftop views at Rootstock, known for offering farm fresh gourmet food, an impressive wine list, whiskey tastings and live music. Grab a local brew at Jekyll Brewing and pop in Findlay Rowe Designs Gift Shop and Boutique for that one of a kind find. Rootstock, 8558 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia, 30188; 770-544-9009; Jekyll Brewing, 8634 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia, 30188; 844-453-5955; Findlay Rowe Designs Gift Shop and Boutique, 102 Fowler Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188, 770-926-9280
For information on annual events and year round happenings such as walking tours, seasonal markets and more, please visit VisitWoodstockGA.com/annual-events/ or make a stop at the Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store located in the heart of downtown Woodstock. Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store, 8588 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-924-0406