Atlanta’s Bamboo Forest
Where to find the East Palisades Trail
June 8, 2022
Metro Atlanta is filled with cool hikes and this past weekend I finally explored the “Bamboo Forest”. I’ve always heard about it but didn’t realize how close it actually was to my house. Located in the Sandy Springs area (still ITP, if you local ATLiens find that to be of importance), this hike was filled with a lot of unexpected adventures.
There are two parking lots to access the trail:
The Indian Trail Entrance: 1425 Indian Trail NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30327
The Whitewater Creek Entrance: 4058 Whitewater Creek Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30327
I tried the Indian Trail entrance first but had no luck with parking, so I went to the Whitewater Creek entrance, where I finally found a space. Parking is tight so I suggest visiting at off peak hours and/or the weekdays.
When you first enter from the Whitewater Creek entrance, you’ll see (and hear) the dog park area. A lot of people bring their dogs to splash around in the river, hence why parking was so tough this day. Obviously I would love to look at the cute dogs all day but I was on a mission to find the bamboo forest.
Because I’m kind of nerdy at times, I saved a screen shot of the trail map before I left my house, but I quickly realized that the trail was very well marked and they had signs periodically that helped me find my way- my saved trail map wasn’t even needed.
I read that the bamboo forest could be found at EP 26, so I had to figure out the best way to get there. It was nice because I went there and back a slightly different way, so I was able to see the entire trail. I went on a warm Sunday summer afternoon and just a head’s up for those of you not from Atlanta, people will be “shootin’ the Hooch”, i.e. floating down the Chattahoochee River, during the summer so it might not be super quiet right along the river bank. Once you hit the trails away from the river, I couldn’t hear people but just know that if you’re looking for a peaceful hike, I would recommend going in the morning.
There were some great spots to pull over along the river to rest and check out the scenery. One of the outlooks was really cool and can be found around the E10 area on the map.
I would say that the trail was moderate- there were a few good sized hills but nothing too crazy. I would recommend some sturdy shoes though because there were a lot of areas with roots. Overall, I think this trail would be perfect for a family, a date with your significant other or even a solo hike like I did- I felt like it was a very safe trail.
The bamboo forest was definitely cool- even for someone who hates bamboo because she’s constantly fighting her neighbor’s invasive bamboo in her yard. :) It’s not very often that you come across bamboo that large and it’s quite a site to see.
Enjoy your city bamboo adventure, take lots of pictures and share them with friends, so they can see some of the cool things Atlanta has to offer!
