Last Updated on November 20, 2025 by Tami
If you’re following our adventures around Atlanta, GA, you know my husband and I are serving a church mission here. Once a week, we have a day to discover new locations in and around Atlanta. A few weeks ago, we went to Stone Mountain Park but it was raining and we were limited in what we could do. So…we went back this week! Exploring Stone Mountain Park this time offered us an unforgettable autumn day of hiking, stunning views, and peaceful nature walks. Here’s what you need to know to plan your own visit to this Georgia gem.
Hiking the ‘Walk Up Trail’ to the Summit
Trail Basics
The Walk Up Trail is well-marked with yellow dashes and takes you directly to Stone Mountain’s summit. The trail is approximately one mile in length with an elevation gain of about 700 feet, making it a moderate hike that typically takes 45 minutes to an hour one way. At the summit, you’ll be 1,683 feet above sea level with views extending up to 60 miles on clear days.
The granite mountain itself is the main attraction, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much of the trail winds through forested areas. The pine trees filled the air with a wonderful Christmas-like scent that made the climb even more enjoyable.
The other thing that is really interesting about this hike is all the old signatures carved into the rock. There are signatures from over 100 years ago! They don’t feel like graffiti at all because they are done so well — and in beautiful fonts. I had to keep reminding myself they were carved into stone, not just written with a pen. That’s dedication!
What to Expect
The hike is moderate for most of the route with a relatively gentle incline, but don’t underestimate the final third. Here’s the breakdown:
- First two-thirds: Gentle climbing through forest and over rock
- Halfway House: A covered pavilion at the 0.6-mile mark offers a perfect rest spot with picnic tables
- Final third: Significantly steeper, with the first steep section featuring handrails at about 0.75 miles
My timing: About 1 hour to reach the top, 40 minutes coming down (including a 5-minute rest)
Important: Dogs are NOT allowed on the Walk Up Trail, though they are permitted on other trails in the park if kept on a leash of 6 feet or less
Important Safety Tips
- Never hike when wet: The granite becomes dangerously slick in rain or damp conditions
- Wear proper footwear: Hiking shoes are highly recommended, especially for the descent
- Watch for pine needles: Loose needles on rocks can be slippery when hiking down
- Use the railings: The handrails on the steepest section are there for a reason
- Take your time on steep sections: I found it easier to zigzag across the rock face rather than going straight up
The downhill portion was harder on my feet than expected—my toes kept sliding forward in my shoes, and that hurt! Take your time and rest when needed.
What to Bring
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes with good tread
- Water
- Camera
- Packed lunch (multiple picnic spots available)
- Layers (temperature can vary between exposed summit and shaded forest)
- Sunscreen and hat for the exposed rock sections
The Summit Experience
The Views
On a clear day, the views from the top are spectacular. You can see Atlanta’s skyline in the distance, though the city looks surprisingly far away. What struck me most was the endless expanse of trees covering metro Atlanta, especially beautiful with the fall colors mixed throughout.
The lake below the mountain adds another scenic element to photograph. It was much breezier at the top, so even if you don’t need a sweatshirt for your hike, you might want to have it once you arrive at the peak.
Facilities at the Top
- Picnic tables for lunch
- Cell service availability was always good on our hike
- Tram building has restrooms
- Snack bar inside the tram building
- Summit Skyride (cable car):
- The Skyride is located 1.5 miles from the Walk Up Trail parking lot
- One-way and round-trip tickets available (included with Attractions Pass, or can be purchased separately on-site)
- Hours vary seasonally (weekends and holidays: 10 AM – 3 PM during winter months)
- Not free to ride down, and there’s no shuttle service back to your car
- The cable car travels 825 feet to the summit and is wheelchair accessible
Beyond the Hike: Indian Island and King’s Trail
After our climb, we drove to Indian Island, connected to the mainland by the historic Washington W. King Covered Bridge. This 19th-century covered bridge was built in 1891 in Athens, Georgia, by African American bridge builder Washington W. King, and was relocated to Stone Mountain Park in 1965. The 150-foot pine and cedar bridge is a beautiful piece of history in its own right.
Indian Island offers:
- King’s Trail: A 0.75-mile trail marked with purple blazes that loops around the entire 17-acre island
- Parking lot with picnic tables overlooking Stone Mountain Lake and the covered bridge
- Stunning photo opportunities: lake reflections, geese, autumn leaves, and tree canopy views against blue sky
- Wildlife spotting (we watched playful squirrels leaping through treetops)
- Pet-friendly: Dogs are allowed on leashes of 6 feet or less
The temperature was perfect—around 65°F, a bit cool for sitting still but ideal for hiking. The sensory experience here was magical: birds singing, leaves crunching underfoot, and that distinctive smell of fall in the air. This easy, flat walk is perfect for all ages and offers a gentler nature experience after the mountain climb.
Other Trails in the Park
For those looking for additional hiking options, exploring Stone Mountain Park’s extensive trail system offers something for every skill level:
- 5-mile loop around the base: A paved trail circling the mountain, popular with walkers, joggers, and bicyclists. One-way motor vehicle traffic on the back side includes dedicated lanes for jogging and biking.
- Cherokee Trail: Connects with the Walk Up Trail and offers a longer loop experience around the mountain with views of the lake, historic sites, and forest terrain.
The Historic Grist Mill
The grist mill inside the park is worth a visit for photography and a taste of history. This historic mill was originally built in 1867 in Fannin County, Georgia, near Ellijay, and was moved to Stone Mountain Park in the 1960s. The setting is beautifully bucolic with a creek and small waterfall.
Recently re-landscaped with native and historical plants, the Grist Mill Historical Gardens make for a great place to eat lunch. Parking and bathrooms are available on-site. Tip: This is a popular photo spot, so patience is required, especially on nice weather days.
Seasonal Considerations
Fall Visit
We visited just after peak fall foliage (probably a week past peak), but the colors were still quite beautiful throughout the park. Exploring Stone Mountain Park in autumn offers spectacular scenery with the hardwood forests displaying vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows against the gray granite backdrop.
We have yet to pay for an attractions pass at Stone Mountain Park, because there is so much to see and explore without needing it. If we ever visit with grandchildren, however, I’m sure we will consider getting an attractions pass.
Christmas Season
The park transforms for the holidays—we noticed polar flight-themed decorations already in place at the summit tram. The marketplace area features Christmas festivities, included in the admission for Stone Mountain Park attractions.
Practical Information
Park Access & Hours
- Park gates: Open daily 6:00 AM – Midnight
- Location: Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
- Phone: (800) 401-2407
- Website: StoneMountainPark
Parking & Hours
Park Hours: Open daily 6:00 AM to Midnight
Parking Options:
- Daily parking: $20 per vehicle
- Annual parking pass: $40 (pays for itself after just two visits, valid for 12 months)
- Pedestrians and cyclists: Free entry through the South Woods Gate
Walk Up Trail Parking: Park at the Confederate Hall parking lot on the west side of the mountain. During busy times (weekends and holidays), this lot can fill up, and overflow parking is available at the Walking Trails lot.
Trail Access
- Walk Up Trail parking: Confederate Hall parking lot (west side)
- Emergency call boxes: Located along the trail
- Restrooms: Available at the trailhead and at the summit
Other Park Features
Beyond the trails, exploring Stone Mountain Park reveals much more to see and do:
- 15 miles of hiking and walking trails of varying difficulty
- 5-mile paved loop around the base (for walking, jogging, or biking)
- Scenic Railroad, available as part of the attractions pass
- Various seasonal events and festivals, included in attractions pass
- Historic sites including the Quarry Exhibit and Confederate Hall Historical & Environmental Education Center
- Camping and picnic areas
- Grist Mill and Covered Bridge historical sites; no charge to visit these
Pet Policy
- Dogs allowed in most areas of the park on leashes of 6 feet or less
- NOT allowed on the Walk Up Trail, Memorial Lawn, Songbird Habitat, or during special events
- Pet owners must clean up after their pets
- Popular dog-friendly trails: Muscogee Trail and King’s Trail on Indian Island
Best Weather for Hiking
Sunny, clear days with comfortable temperatures are ideal. Avoid the mountain trail entirely when conditions are wet or damp—the granite becomes dangerously slippery. When exploring Stone Mountain Park, checking the weather forecast before your visit can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. You would not want to hike to the top of Stone Mountain when it’s wet or very hot!
Is There More to Exploring Stone Mountain Park?
My husband and I have only visited Stone Mountain Park twice — both visits on Mondays. I feel we’ve hardly scraped the surface of things to do here. I look forward to returning sometime to discover more of the park. I’d love to rent a kayak or canoe and spend some time on the lake. I think I would also enjoy visiting during their Christmas festivities, although I suspect it will be a bit crowded. I have really enjoyed hiking and exploring Stone Mountain Park when it feels like I almost have it to myself! I hope you have the opportunity to visit Stone Mountain Park some day. And I hope this guide will help you have a great experience!
Check out my other posts about places we’ve explored near Atlanta:
1st Visit to Stone Mountain Park
A hike up Stone Mt. is a must-do for Fall to see the City of Trees, Atlanta!