Hiking Intown Atlanta’s Hidden Forests: Inside and on the Perimeter

Atlanta’s hidden forests are among the city’s best-kept secrets. In this guidebook, outdoor leaders Jonah McDonald and Zana Pouncey recommend sixty-one hikes inside and on Atlanta’s I-285 perimeter. From well-known forests along Atlanta’s Beltline and Chattahoochee River to memorable Constitution Lakes and verdant Cascade Springs, intown Atlanta hiking is your opportunity to experience historical ruins, urban art, original-growth forests, and peaceful nature trails in the city.
Ranging from one to six miles, these hikes are suitable for experienced and beginning hikers of all ages. Each route includes maps, complete hiking directions, trailhead location, and even public transit access information. There’s no need to drive to the mountains to get out on the trail. Hiking Intown Atlanta’s Hidden Forests lets you visit wildlife areas, nature preserves, and historic sites without leaving the city

Jonah McDonald (Author)
JONAH McDONALD arrived in Atlanta on foot over two decades ago. After completing his 2,172-mile southbound thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail, he put down roots in Atlanta. Today, he serves as the DeKalb County Park Naturalist at Mason Mill Park. He published the first edition of Hiking Atlanta’s Hidden Forests: Intown and Out in 2014. His second book, published in 2020, is titled Secret Atlanta: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure. Jonah is also a storyteller, television host, and tour guide. Jonah loves exploring his city via bicycle, canoe, or foot, and believes that there is a new story to learn and tell around every bend. When he’s not already on an adventure, Jonah loves finding a new one.

Zana Pouncey (Author)
ZANA POUNCEY is a native southerner and has lived in Atlanta for over 10 years. She loves city life with all her heart, but is a passionate environmentalist at her core. Connecting people to nature is her calling. After graduating from Emory University with a degree in Environmental Science, Zana spent several years working in environmental advocacy and education for nonprofit organizations including Trees Atlanta, Zoo Atlanta, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. She’s been awarded a Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship by the National Geographic Society, is on the board of the Atlanta Green Theater Alliance, has presented at environmental conferences and teacher workshops, and has written for National Geographic’s Education blog.