Cascade Springs Nature Preserve: A Peaceful In-Town Waterfall Hike

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve. It’s hard to believe this peaceful place is in the heart of the city in Southwest Atlanta.  There are towering trees, draped with moss. The Battle of Utoy Creek was fought here, and you can see evidence of Civil War earth mounds throughout the hike (just under 2 miles).

Here’s everything you need to know about our experience exploring the Cascade Springs Nature Preserve in Atlanta, Georgia.

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve is located on Cascade Road in southwest Atlanta. This 120-acre nature preserve in the forest is filled with fun things to explore, such as a trail, waterfall, the remains of a pump house, Civil War-era trenches, streams, and picnic tables.

There is a parking area surrounded by a fence, and the gates are locked at closing time. The park’s summer hours are Mon-Fri 7:30a – 3:00p, Sat-Sun 7:30a – 7:30p, and the winter hours are Mon-Fri 7:30a – 3:00p, Sat-Sun 7:30a – 6:00p. Parking is free.

One of the fun things to see is a moss-covered stone spring house. The spring waters here are said to have some healing effects and in fact, it was once bottled and sold.  You’ll see the pretty spring house with a moat at the beginning of the hike.

After you park in the parking lot, take the boardwalk to the beginning of the trail. You’ll pass a few old buildings, which used to be an exclusive resort that utilized the mineral springs. Keep walking until you see the spring house.  If you want to get the toughest part of the hike over first, then head to the right.  If you want to see the waterfall first (and play in it for hours, like my guys did) then head to the left. You’ll circle back to the spring house.

Thanks to Hiking Atlanta’s Hidden Forests for turning me on to this trail. I highly recommend the book! There is even a secret path (about halfway through the hike) that leads you to some really awesome boulders just beyond the fence of the nature preserve. You have to get the book for that tidbit.

If you don’t have the book, no fear.  Atlanta Trails can also get you there.

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve FAQ

How long is the Cascade Springs Nature Preserve Loop Trail?

The Cascade Springs Nature Preserve Loop Trail is 1.9 miles. This trail is considered easy, and is perfect for even the littlest hikers in your crew.

What is the history behind the Cascade Springs Nature Preserve?

According to a sign at the preserve, the Cascade Springs Nature Preserve site was “used for Confederate defenses and still contains remains of Confederate trenches and rifle pits.” During the Civil War, the preserve was the site of the Battle of Utoy Creek in 1864.

How much does it cost to go to the Cascade Springs Nature Preserve?

Visiting the Cascade Springs Nature Preserve is free! The preserve is open year-round, but only during specific hours, so make sure to check before heading out. Currently, the park’s summer hours are Mon-Fri 7:30a – 3:00p, Sat-Sun 7:30a – 7:30p, and the winter hours are Mon-Fri 7:30a – 3:00p, Sat-Sun 7:30a – 6:00p.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO GEORGIA

• YOUR GEORGIA VACATION
• ATLANTA: 53+ Things To Do in Atlanta You Should Not Miss (From Locals in the Know)
• FREE ATLANTA: 50+ Free Things To Do in Atlanta (That Don’t Suck)
• HIKES: 125+ Best Places for Hiking in Georgia (Kids & Beginners)
• NATURE CENTERS: 13+ Atlanta Nature Centers Near Me for Enjoying Special Time Outside