Arabia Mountain State Park is a hidden gem. There are endless opportunities for activities such as hiking, kayaking, geocaching, and junior ranger programs, and many of them are free for families. Located just 25 minutes from downtown Atlanta, this oasis of green and granite is a perfect getaway.
Scripps News’ Alexa Liako met up with Revonda Cosby and Jeff Dingler to explore the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area.
“It’s a museum without walls. Spanning 40,000 acres, the area includes mountains, rivers, and historic sites,” said Dingler.
As soon as we hit the trail, nature welcomed us back with open arms.
This week marks Georgia’s State Parks Week, a reminder to put down our phones, enjoy the last moments of summer, and step outside to appreciate the beauty around us. With nearly 10,000 state parks and heritage sites nationwide, there are countless opportunities to explore and enjoy nature.
There are many free and affordable programs to take advantage of, such as renting kayaks from the South River Watershed Alliance for a small fee. Additionally, there are guided hiking tours, junior ranger camps, and a junior angler camp for kids.
For those interested in wildlife, the AWARE Wildlife Center within the park offers free programs for kids to interact with and learn about animals.
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“For many of our visitors, interacting with the animals is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s eye-opening for those who live in the city and may not be aware of the wildlife around them,” said Scott Lange, the executive director of the AWARE Wildlife Center.
Just steps away from the Wildlife Center is Arabia Mountain itself, a solid granite formation that used to be a quarry but is now a peaceful retreat. Despite its harsh appearance, the mountain is home to various life forms and offers a stunning view from the top.
The beauty of the natural landscape and the history of the stone, which has been used in iconic structures like the Brooklyn Bridge, are truly remarkable. Don’t miss out on this experience by staying on the main road.
