Parking & Trail Access

East Palisades includes approximately 5.6 miles of interconnected natural-surface trails and some of the largest elevation changes in CRNRA. The trail winds through hardwood forest, climbs above the river, and drops down toward the shoreline, so expect rocky sections, exposed roots, creek crossings, and steep climbs. The reward is a series of beautiful views of the river!

An easy overlook to reach is Poppi's Point, located about a third of a mile from the Indian Trail trailhead (located between trail markers EP 10 and EP14). The short climb leads to a panoramic view of the river and the rocky shoals below, making it a great first stop if you're short on time.

As you hike East Palisades, you may also notice rock overhangs along the landscape. These natural shelters were used by Indigenous peoples as temporary protection from the elements while traveling through the area.

Keeping these trails in great condition takes ongoing work. Heavy use, storms, and erosion all leave their mark throughout the year. CNPC partners with the National Park Service and dedicated volunteers to improve trails, restore damaged areas, and help visitors enjoy the park safely. Supporting CNPC through a membership or donation helps make this work possible.

Few people expect to find a bamboo forest in the middle of metro Atlanta, but hidden along the riverside trail, the “Atlanta Bamboo Forest” has become one of the park's most photographed destinations. From the Indian Trail trailhead, follow the main trail downhill to the river, then continue north along the shoreline until the forest transitions into towering bamboo (found at trail marker EP 26).

The grove likely originated from ornamental plantings long before the property became part of a national park. Today, the bamboo is considered an invasive species because it spreads aggressively and competes with native plants. At the same time, its extensive root system helps stabilize this section of the Chattahoochee's riverbank and reduce erosion. It serves as a reminder that landscapes often have complex histories and that restoration requires thoughtful, long-term stewardship!

Along the River

Like many other trails in Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, the river is the centerpiece of East Palisades! Much of the trail follows its edge, with frequent opportunities to stop along the shoreline, watch paddlers drift by, or simply enjoy the sound of moving water.

One of the defining features of this stretch of river is Devil's Race Course Shoals, where the Chattahoochee spreads across broad shelves of exposed rock. On days with lower water levels, visitors often wade into portions of the shoals to cool off, sit on the rocks, or enjoy the river up close. The shoals are also visible from Poppi's Point, offering one of the best panoramic views in the park.

This section of the Chattahoochee is also well known among anglers. The river supports healthy populations of trout and bass and is stocked with trout throughout the year. East Palisades is part of Georgia's Delayed Harvest trout fishery, a seasonal management program that provides outstanding catch-and-release fishing during colder months before harvest regulations resume. Anglers should carry a valid Georgia fishing license with trout stamp and review current Georgia Department of Natural Resources regulations before heading out, as Delayed Harvest dates and rules change seasonally (read more about fishing in the park here).

The Dog Beach (EP 28)

Adjacent to the Whitewater Creek parking lot, a small sandy stretch of shoreline has become known locally as the "dog beach," a popular place to take a break during a hike or spend time by the river with your pup!

The park welcomes pets throughout Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, but they must remain on a leash no longer than six feet at all times, including while in the water (learn more here). Keeping dogs leashed helps protect wildlife, preserves sensitive areas along the river, and creates a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Don’t forget to bring waste bags and pack out after your pet so this shared space stays clean and welcoming – or use a bag provided at the CNPC Bag & Bin It stations throughout the park!

East Palisades is just one piece of a much larger national park. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area protects nearly 48 miles of river and includes more than 66 miles of trails spread across 15 park units, each with its own landscapes, history, and opportunities to explore. Enjoy these nearby national park trails:

• Just across the river, West Palisades offers another five miles of trails and can be accessed from the Akers Mill and Paces Mill trailheads, providing a different perspective on the same stretch of the Chattahoochee.

• A short drive away, Cochran Shoals is one of the park's most popular destinations for walking, running, birding, fishing, and wildlife watching. Trailheads at Interstate North, Powers Island, Columns Drive, and Sope Creek connect visitors to nearly 11 miles of riverside trails, wetlands, historic sites, and some of the park's most diverse habitats.