Big Creek Greenway

About Big Creek Greenway

Big Creek Greenway is a 12-foot wide path that stretches around 10 miles from Big Creek Park in Roswell to Union Hill Park. Winding its way through the heart of Alpharetta and beyond, this path is one of North Fulton’s most cherished natural resources. There are 2 components of the trail: one section in Alpharetta and the other section in Forsyth County. The Alpharetta section of the trail spans from Marconi Drive to Mansell Road, while the Forsyth County section extends from McFarland Parkway to Bethelview Road in Cumming, GA.

This award-winning linear park offers a serene escape from the hustle of city life, providing a paved, multi-use trail that meanders through lush woodlands and along the peaceful banks of Big Creek. This lively paved path also doubles as a conservation effort where you can stroll through and observe the natural Alpharetta wildlife and flora. Since it’s paved, the entirety of the trail is highly ideal for those who enjoy biking, walking, running, and rollerblading!

The Big Creek Greenway travels through Roswell, Cumming, and Alpharetta with gaps in between, and there are plans to connect Alpharetta’s section to the Forsyth County Trail System. When on the trail, stay on the concrete path and avoid using the space between the creek and the path.

Whether you are a dedicated cyclist, a casual jogger, a family out for a weekend stroll, or a nature lover seeking tranquility, the Big Creek Greenway is a must-visit attraction in the Alpharetta area.

Big Creek Greenway Features

The Big Creek Greenway is masterfully designed to be accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities. The trail consists of a 12-foot-wide concrete path that is mostly flat, making it ideal for a wide range of activities. This smooth, well-maintained surface is perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, inline skaters, cyclists, and runners alike.

As you travel the Greenway, the concrete path periodically gives way to elevated wooden boardwalks that lift you over sensitive wetlands and marshes. These sections offer some of the most scenic views on the trail, providing an intimate look at the area’s rich biodiversity without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. The journey is shaded by a dense canopy of mature hardwood trees, offering welcome relief from the Georgia sun and creating a feeling of being completely immersed in nature.

One of the most captivating aspects of the Big Creek Greenway is the opportunity to observe local wildlife in its natural habitat. The protected corridor serves as a sanctuary for a variety of animals. It is common for visitors to spot white-tailed deer grazing near the trail’s edge, great blue herons wading in the creek, turtles sunning themselves on logs, and a diverse array of birds and waterfowl. This accessible nature preserve provides a constant reminder of the beautiful ecosystem that thrives just steps away from our daily lives.

Alpharetta and Forsyth County Pathways

The Big Creek Greenway is a regional treasure, with major sections flowing through both Fulton and Forsyth counties.

The Alpharetta Section (Fulton County): The beloved Alpharetta portion of the Greenway stretches for approximately 8 miles. It begins near Windward Parkway and travels south through Alpharetta, continuing into Roswell. This segment is known for its lush scenery and convenient access points, making it a popular destination for residents across the city. It provides a vital connection, allowing users to travel from the commercial hub around North Point Mall to the quieter, more residential areas of the city, all while surrounded by nature.
The Forsyth County Connection: For those seeking a longer journey, the Big Creek Greenway continues seamlessly north into Forsyth County for over 15 additional miles. This section extends the path all the way to the Sawnee Mountain Preserve, passing through popular parks like Fowler Park and connecting directly to the vibrant Halcyon mixed-use development. This continuous trail system allows for long-distance bike rides and runs, solidifying the Greenway’s status as a major regional recreational corridor.

Big Creek Greenway Access Points

There are several convenient access points to the Big Creek Greenway in Alpharetta, many of which offer free parking, restrooms, and other amenities.

Haynes Bridge Road: (6698 North Point Parkway) – Offers parking and restrooms, located near the southern end of the Alpharetta section.
North Point Parkway (5100 North Point Parkway) – A popular starting point with ample parking, located directly across from North Point Mall.
Kimball Bridge Road (1750 Kimball Bridge Road) – Features parking and provides access to the central part of the trail.
Marconi Drive (4005 Marconi Drive) – A smaller access point near Windward Parkway, perfect for residents in the northern part of the city.
Halcyon Trailhead (6265 Cortland Walk) – Popular access point across the street from Halcyon.
Union Hill Trailhead (5259 Union Hill Road) – Access Point in Union Hill Park of McGinnis Ferry Road.
Kimball Bridge Road (1750 Kimball Bridge Road) – Features parking and provides access to the central part of the trail.
Marconi Drive (4005 Marconi Drive) – A smaller access point near Windward Parkway, perfect for residents in the northern part of the city.
Fowler Park Trailhead (4110 Carolene Way) – Access Point in Fowler Park off Atlanta Highway.
Bethelview Trailhead (5120 Bethelview Road) – Smaller access point off Bethelview Road.
Sawnee Mountain Preserve Trailhead (4075 Spot Road) – Popular access point at Sawnee Mountain Preserve in Cumming.

Trail Hours and Rules

March through October: 6:00am – 9:30pm
November through February: 6:00am – 7:00pm
10 mph speed limit is enforced

Important Information

(678) 297-6123
Big Creek Greenway website