A gorgeous sunset over Atlanta is a welcoming sight any evening, but it is a particularly lovely reward during or after an evening run.
Whether you seek a romantic run for two or a few moments of beautiful solitude for yourself, these metro Atlanta running trails are great places to catch the sunset.
Just make sure to time your outing, so you can enjoy the colorful sky and sinking sun without compromising on safety.
Cochran Shoals Trail: Chattahoochee River
3.1 miles
1955-2069 Eugene Gunby Road, Marietta.
The wide graveled paths of this popular Chattahoochee River Recreation Area trail take you along a whitewater-filled stretch of the river. Pause at the boardwalk at .6 mile or the bridge that passes over the creek at the 2-mile mark to drink in the sunset.
Morningside Nature Preserve Trail
2 miles
1941 Wellbourne Drive NE, Atlanta.
Cap off your evening with a jog along the wide, sandy banks of South Fork Peachtree Creek in Atlanta's upscale Morningside neighborhood. Much of the trail is wooded, but the sandy spots and a suspension bridge along the trail show a sunset to your advantage, particularly after the leaves fall. Be sure to invite your dog along. He may not notice the setting sun, but he's sure to enjoy the "dog beach" along the trail.
1-40 miles
Mavell Road, Smyrna.
Mile after mile of flat and fast paved trail make the Silver Comet a dream run you can tailor to your mood and abilities. It also features numerous chances to catch the sunset, including the spot where the trail crosses Nickajack Creek over a long, high-elevation train trestle, catching views of the creek valley far below. This is a good option for sunset-seeking long distance runners or even bikers.
4.75 miles
Sweetwater Creek's Orange Trail crosses to the creek's eastern shore. There you can catch views of Civil War mill ruins, upstream views of the creek's whitewater shoals, and a view of a large, prehistoric cave used as shelter by Native Americans as you jog along.
And, best of all, elevated views of Atlanta's skyline at sunset.
MORE:
Skip the sidewalk: Atlanta's best running trails
Best north Georgia trails to go for a run
5 hiking trails that are a quick drive from Atlanta
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