Whether you're an Atlanta native or just looking for a nice nearby hike during your weekend visit, chances are you've been told to find the "Atlanta bamboo forest" or visit the "dog beach" -- both of which are located at East Palisades and part of your local national park! Just inside I-285 in Sandy Springs, towering bluffs overlook the Chattahoochee River, miles of wooded trails wind through mature forest, and a hidden bamboo grove has become one of the park's most recognizable destinations. East Palisades is one of the most visited sections of Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA), and for good reason! As the official nonprofit partner of CRNRA, Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC) works alongside the National Park Service to preserve and support places like East Palisades. Memberships, donations, and volunteer support help fund trail improvements, habitat restoration, visitor programs, and projects that keep the park welcoming for millions of visitors each year. Here's what to know before your visit!

Via NPS.gov Date: July 1, 2026 SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area today announced the reopening of the Island Ford trail system following maintenance and restoration work completed as part of the park’s Comprehensive Trails Management Plan. This effort reflects the National Park Service’s commitment to visitor safety, resource protection and high-quality outdoor experiences. Located along a scenic stretch of the Chattahoochee River, the Island Ford unit offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography and access to tranquil, forested landscapes. The project was implemented through a public-private partnership between the NPS and the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy, with a professional trail construction crew completing the work. Park staff and volunteers will continue to monitor and maintain the trails moving forward. CNPC, the park’s official philanthropic partner, raised more than $400,000 to support the design and construction of these improvements through the generosity of individual donors and the broader community. The project added approximately 2 miles of new trails, expanding the system from 4.8 miles to nearly 7 miles. These routes provide access to previously hard-to-reach areas and introduce clearly defined loops and out-and-back options to improve navigation, discourage informal trails and support long-term sustainability. “The Island Ford trails are a cornerstone of the visitor experience at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area,” said Superintendent K. Lynn Berry. “With these improvements, we are not only restoring trails, we are strengthening the foundation of this park for years to come. This project is a testament to what can be accomplished through strong partnerships, and we are incredibly grateful to the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy and the community whose support made this work possible.” “This project is a powerful example of what’s possible when a community comes together to support its national park,” said Brittany Jones, Executive Director of the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy. “Through the generosity of our donors and partners, CNPC was able to fully fund these improvements, enhancing the visitor experience while protecting the natural resources that make Island Ford so special.” Visitors returning to Island Ford will experience improved trail surfaces, enhanced signage and refreshed wayfinding to support safe navigation throughout the network. The park encourages all guests to practice Leave No Trace principles, remain alert to changing conditions, and help protect sensitive natural and cultural resources. For the latest updates on conditions, programs and visitor information, please visit the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area website or follow the park on official social media channels. About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov .