The Ridge Nature Preserve 8 of 10 stars

Address: 390 Burch Rd, Fayetteville, GA 30215

Hours: Everyday 7 AM–7 PM

Phone: (770) 486-7774

The web page says: The Ridge Nature Area encompasses 308 acres of natural beauty providing a glimpse into contrasting ecosystems, passive recreational experiences, and environmental exploration opportunities. With over seven miles of trails, the Ridge is frequented by patrons hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. The top of the Ridge provides easier walking trails that wind through the upland pine habitat. As you work your way around the Creek Trail, you get to experience the bottomland hardwood areas along Gingercake and Whitewater Creeks. The wide range of elevation change and differing trail lengths provide opportunities for anyone that wants to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the Ridge. Frequently seen wildlife include eastern box turtles, a multitude of songbird species, armadillos, hawks, white-tailed deer, and the occasional barred owl!

What Kind of Park is this? This is a Nature Preserve

1. The parks views: Pretty river and forest.

2. The Parks cost: Free

3. The Parks bathrooms:

There is a trail head and small parking area soon after you enter the gate. Don't start there. Instead go straight on to the next parking area and you will see the bathroom building on the right. Bring your own kleenex for toilet paper and some paper towels and hand sanitizer just in case the bathrooms are not stocked. There is also a small camping area off to the side of the Ridge Loop Trail and it has a small building with one bathroom.

4. How long is the hike? 5 miles

5. The parks shopping and souvenirs: none

6. Does the park have wheelchair and stroller access? no

7. How helpful are the parks maps and markers?

The trails were well marked and easy to follow. There was a map you could take a picture of on the side of the bathroom building you can take a picture of or you could use google to get a map and print it before you get there.

8. Is the park kid and dog friendly? Yes as long as your kid is happy just walking.

9. Is there tent and RV camping?

They just built the small camping area with cleared areas for 2 tents with a fire pit, picnic table and 1 bathroom. I believe it's primarily set up for scout groups but you could contact the conservation trust thru their website and probably get permission to use it.

10. Was it worthwhile? Yes

It was a nice walk in the woods, and the ridge loop trail (yellow trail) was flat and well maintained almost the entire way with the exception of a couple of small inclines.