A few weeks ago, while looking up trails in Georgia, I came across Fernbank Forest. It immediately piqued my interest. I loved the massive trees and the deep-green foliage.
I suppose this sounds like every hiking trail, but the pictures online of Fernbank were exceptionally beautiful.
The Odyssey Begins
So one Friday afternoon, I headed out to find this forest for myself. It was an hour and a half trip, but I made it to Druid Hills in one piece. Unfortunately, Google Maps brought me to an old, deserted building with a bolted gate.
Other available addresses showed me where the museum was located, but not how to find the trail heads.
Stiff Competition
As I wandered around Druid Hills, I realized I was passing many other beautiful parks on my way to this elusive forest.
I knew I had to make a decision. I could continue the hunt with just two or three hours of daylight left, or I could visit one of the amazing ones flanking me on both sides of the street.
I chose the park I had already passed a whopping three times: Deepdene Park, which is a part of Olmsted Park.
I was not disappointed. This is arguably the best hiking trail I’ve ever been on – especially in the city. I outlined the path I followed in purple, below.
So what did I find at Deepdene Park?
Stunning Waterscapes
I know. I know. I must have said it a thousand times by now, but I love waterscapes! Can you blame me? I’m an island girl!
Lots of Dirt Trails
I also much prefer the dirt trails to the paved ones, and Deepdene Park had plenty. There weren’t a lot of other people on the trail, so the dirt padding my footsteps and the wind in the trees was so peaceful.
Beautiful Bridges
Another good find on any trail is a bridge. This park didn’t have massive beauties like the Clayton County International Park, but I loved the medieval theme of the bridges.
Plenty of Benches for Sitting
I have never seen a park with so many benches. I started to wonder if people visited Deepdene to hike or sit. After I had finished walking out [almost] the entire park though, those benches came in handy.
I found a shady spot by a creek where I could listen to the water flowing over the rocks, and spent an hour or so reading. Such peace!
Macro Shot Ops
One of my favourite things about springtime photography is that there are much better opportunities for getting pictures of plant and animal life – more specifically, macro shots.
So am I disappointed that I didn’t make it to Fernbank? Definitely not – especially since I plan to go back soon to find this elusive forest.
This time, I’m bringing a Druid Hills native with me. If I get lost again, well I suppose I have someone to share the blame with. Wish me luck!
Have you ever gone hiking only to end up on a totally different trail? Did you enjoy it, or was it a disappointment? Share your story in the comments below!
