Cochran Shoals Trail: Breathtaking Views, Questionable Bathrooms, and a Parking Struggle

Hike Review

Trail: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uMETtJNvYSPckbYWA

Hiking the Cochran Shoals Trail – River Loop in Marietta, GA

This past weekend, I hit the Cochran Shoals Trail – River Loop with some friends, and let me tell you—this trail has views. It’s not the only trail in the area, but its main attraction is the Chattahoochee River, which is always present—whether you can see it or just hear it rushing nearby. Trust me, it’s flowing very close.

Now, one of the first things you’ll notice is that this beautiful piece of nature is right by the highway. Yep, you can literally look up and see the bridge standing steady above the water. Does that ruin the view? Depends. If you’re strategic with your photos, you can avoid it. But let’s be real—the highway isn’t exactly adding to the scenery; it’s just there, offering access to this little slice of nature.

As you walk, you’ll see plenty of wildlife living their best life—ducks floating down the river, birds soaring above, fish minding their business in the water. So, in a way, you’re never really alone on this hike.

Parking & Entry—Read This Before You Go!

Now, here’s where it gets tricky. The trail’s beauty brings a lot of visitors, which means parking can be a struggle,especially on weekends. It’s not impossible, but be prepared to circle a few times. Also, you have to pay $5 for parking.And before you get any ideas about skipping the fee—don’t. They will boot your car, and no matter how stunning the scenery is, a booted car will ruin anyone’s day. So, do yourself a favor and pay the $5—it helps maintain the trails anyway.

Once you park, you’ll have access to restrooms, but warning: they’re public restrooms. Cleanliness? Questionable. Use at your own risk.

The Trail Experience

You can also rent bikes near the entrance, which sounds like a fun idea until you realize that most of the main path is gravel, crowded, or just too narrow. So, if you’re biking, be extra careful.

For me, the views were the best part of the hike. But overall? Not my favorite. There were a lot of people, which kind of took away from the peacefulness I usually want on a hike. Another heads-up: There’s not much shade, so be ready to sweat in the sun. And if you go later in the evening? Be prepared to freeze. The wind off the river gets so cold it might just make you feel like it’s winter again. Bring an extra hoodie—trust me.