Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) protects over 15 miles of river corridor along the Chattahoochee River, running through multiple sections near Atlanta, Georgia. The park was established to preserve natural river frontage and provide public access to outdoor recreational activities close to a major metropolitan area. It comprises seven separated units, each offering trails, picnic areas, and access to the river for fishing and boating. The river corridor features mixed hardwood forests, wetlands, and calm to moderately flowing river segments that support a diverse ecosystem including beavers, otters, and numerous bird species such as herons and kingfishers. Historically, the Chattahoochee was vital to the native Muscogee (Creek) peoples and later European settlers for transportation, fishing, and agriculture. Today, modern visitors frequent the area for hiking along trails like the Riverside and Cochran Shoals trails, paddling on calm river stretches, and fishing for bass and trout. The park is also a popular spot for birdwatchers due to the varied habitats along the river. Notable landmarks include historic mills and river access points such as Island Ford and East Palisades units. With proximity to urban centers, CRNRA offers a natural refuge while emphasizing conservation and recreational enjoyment with easy access and family-friendly settings. Its varied landscapes provide opportunities for casual strolls, serious hiking, and water-based recreation, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually.
