Discover The Best Walking Trails In Rome, Georgia

Whether a casual walker or an avid walker/runner, you can discover all of Rome’s Walking Trails. Rome has a lot of walking paths and trails, and most of them are located right downtown. The best thing about walking trails is that it is an activity that is not just for the physically fit. Walking trails are for the walker, runner, biker, or those who want a stroll. We had a lot of fun exploring all the walking trails.

Silver Creek Walking Trail

The first trail we explored is called the Silver Creek Walking Trail. This walking trail is not located in Silver Creek, so there is no confusion. However, it begins just off Second Ave. After just a few steps into the path, you can see the Bridge. The route intersects with Kingfisher Trail and ends at Myrtle Hill at the end of Broad Street.

The Bridge is unique. It is very nostalgic looking, like a piece of history tucked back behind the hustle and bustle of the downtown area.

It’s also an excellent spot for pictures. I am always looking for great places to take pictures.

Marshall Forest Preserve

Marshall Forest Preserve is located just a few minutes down Horseleg Creek Road. With a small parking spot on the side of the road. The land extends to the Coosa River. While on the Roman Holiday River Cruise, the First Mate pointed out where Marshal Forest is from the river’s side. The area is protected and preserves the natural forest and history of the site. The area shows what Rome once looked like and how the land has changed over time.

The trails also accommodate the blind as informational markers are presented in braille and text. As you approach the entrance to the path, you will see signs on both sides of the trail. As you go down the trail, the rope lining the path notifies you (by way of knots) when there is a sign giving information about the land or wildlife. When there are two knots, there is a tree root or other obstacle on the ground to be aware of.

Paris Lake

Paris Lake at Georgia Highlands College. There is a walking path that goes around the lake. It is just under two miles all the way around. Picnic tables and a gazebo on the side of the lake closest to the school. You can see all kinds of wildlife there, and it is very active. It is easy to access behind the college off Booze Mountain Road.

Heritage Park

The Heritage Park walking trails begin at Heritage Park. They run along the Oostanaula River. If you start at Heritage Park, you can go to the Braves Stadium. That is a six-and-a-half-mile trek. You pass the library, go the length of Ridge Ferry Park, pass the Chieftains Museum, and go around behind the Braves Stadium.

Heritage Foot Bridge is one of Rome’s landmarks with an American Flag that lights up at night. People stop by year-round to take pictures of and from the Bridge.

Ridge Ferry Park

Ridge Ferry Park’s walking path is part of the Heritage Trail. Some markers and signs let you know the distance from point to point if you want a shorter walk or walk to a specific place. There is a dog park, several playgrounds, a treehouse, and lots of acres to access. There is also a stage for outdoor concerts. It is also where everyone gathers to watch the Fourth of July fireworks. There are several festivals held in the park every year.

A Farmers Market is held here on Saturday mornings during the summer and warmer months. The path stays along the river, and you will pass behind the E.C.O. Center. The last time I was there, they had raccoons cared for by the E.C.O Center that you could watch.

Jackson Hill

Jackson Hill is where the home of the Visitor’s Center. I was surprised when I found out that there were walking trails there. Across from the Visitors Center, there is a cabin. Inside the cabin is where I found the maps of the walking trails. The trail leads up to an old reservoir.

The trails start just behind the cannons and are marked with signs.

House’ O Dreams

Martha Berry’s House’ O Dreams sits on top of Lavender Mountain and is said to be one of the most beautiful places in Rome, Georgia, which is no surprise since Berry College is one of the most beautiful campuses in the United States. I have not been there. I borrowed these photos from my daughter, who hiked up there years ago. The house overlooks Berry College’s campus and Rome.

When you arrive at Berry College, you can stop by the Campus guardhouse, and they can give you instructions and a map on how to get to the House’ O Dreams. It is on my to-do list, and I will write about it when I get there.

Rocky Mountain Project

Rocky Mountain Project is north of Rome and has a lot to offer. Camping, fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking trails can all be found at the Rocky Mountain Project. You can find maps at the entrances to the park that label all the trails. There is a $5 parking fee, and the machine only takes cash and exact change. The trails are identified by difficulty level, whether bike trails, walking trails, or both. It is well-maintained and overseen by Park Rangers.

Blacks Bluff Preserve

When searching for the Blacks Bluff Preserve walking trail, we were unsuccessful. They pointed it out when we were on the Roman Holiday River Cruise. The area is also known as the “Cliffs of Coosa.” We could not find the entrance to the trail or anywhere to park. The cliffs are limestone and are said to be 500 million years old. Because of the lime in the soil, it has a unique plant life that is protected. If you know any information about this area, I would love to hear about it.

Safety Tips For Walking trails

There are some scary places, and you don’t want to be in the wrong place at the wrong time while you are out for a walk.

• Walk in well-lit areas.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t be looking down at your phone.
• If listening to music, keep it low enough to hear people approaching.
• Wear clothes that make you visible. Choose bright colors or reflective wear.
• If you are walking for the first time on a path, walk with a partner until you are familiar with it.
• If you feel uncomfortable, leave the area. Turn around and go back to your vehicle.