Near Decatur Water Works Ruins
Approaching the boardwalk.
Near Decatur Water Works Ruins
Boardwalk
Near Decatur Water Works Ruins
Boardwalk
Near Decatur Water Works Ruins
Boardwalk

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Hike Route

Decatur Water Works Ruins

4.0 (1 Rating)
A hike to the historic ruins of the old facility that used to supply drinking water to the city of Decatur.
0.9
mi
Distance
60
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
Fall ColorsFamily FriendlyHistoricalRiver/Creek

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.92mi
Distance
60ft
Elevation Gain
69ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
933ft
High Point
874ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Starting from Medlock Park, the hike starts on the wide and well-maintained South Peachtree Creek Trail. This trail heads north and then west, branching into Mason Mill Park. The path is wide and in places, you'll enjoy hiking along impressive raised boardwalk that wind through the woods. At about 0.75 miles, you'll have the option to branch from the main, multi-use path onto a series of natural surface singletrack trails. Take the Decatur Water Works Connector Trail as mapped here to head to the area of the Decature Water Works ruins. The Decatur Water Works once supplied water to the city of Decatur. The remains of the brick buildings have now fallen into disrepair and are slowly being reclaimed by nature. Many of the old buildings have colorful graffiti that can be fun to photograph. It is an interesting area to explore, although be sure to use caution around the old buildings. Once you are done exploring, you can either head back the way you came or continue on the South Peachtree Creek Trail for some added mileage.
History & Background
More on the history of the Water Works can be found here.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Kristen Arendt