By the Book Series - - Autrey Mill Nature Center

This "By the Book" hike was inspired by Jonah McDonald's recently published guidebook, Hiking Atlanta's Hidden Forests.  Although he "cut his hiking teeth" years ago as a SoBo thru-hiker on the Appalacian Trail, Jonah now favors the more local greenspace treasures that are right in the Atlanta area - - places that afford the feeling of the deep woods without the need for hours of travel. Members of the AOC are familiar with many of the trails in the book such as Sweetwater Creek, all of the CNRA trails, Stone Mt., and others.; however,  there are many trails that have gone undiscovered - - at least by me.  I plan to scout out many of these trails and post them as events for the enjoyment of others.

It doesn't get any easier than this . . .  a true stroll in the park.  If you've been reluctant to hike with a group for fear of being left behind or slowing down other people, you have NO excuse for missing this event.  Autrey Mill is a beautifullly forested little loop that - - during the growing months - - features smooth trails and dense trees.  It will likely look a bit stark for this walk, since the leaves will have fallen.  But it will be a nice place to learn for future walks - - beautiful and safe.

We'll meet at the second parking lot -- the overflow lot just past the first little parking area.  We'll take a clockwise path along the trail, exiting near the nature center building, where you'll be able to see Pebbles, the young African tortoise that inhabits an outer yard.  You might also like to see the historic homes and the Native American replicas in the area before you head back to your car.

The Nature Center building is closed on Sundays.

This will be a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and meet some wonderful AOC folks. 

There are restroom facilities at the nature center.

9770 Autrey Mill Road - Johns Creek, GA 30022

GPS:  N 34.01.2257;  W -84.13.9184

Parking is free.  

Restroom facilities are available.