The Big Creek Greenway is one of North Atlanta’s most heavily used—and quietly essential—public spaces. Stretching across Alpharetta, Roswell, and Johns Creek, this paved, multi-use trail functions as many things at once: a commuter route, a fitness corridor, a nature escape, and a shared backyard for thousands of residents.
If you’ve ever wondered where it starts, where to park, which sections feel busiest, or who it’s best for, this guide breaks it all down clearly and practically.
What Is the Big Creek Greenway?
The Big Creek Greenway is a paved greenway following Big Creek through North Fulton County. It currently spans more than 8 miles, with additional extensions planned.
It is:
- Fully paved (asphalt and boardwalk sections)
- Designed for walking, running, biking, strollers, and scooters
- Open from dawn to dusk
- Free and publicly maintained
Unlike hiking trails, the Big Creek Greenway is intentionally accessible and flat, which explains its broad appeal across ages and activity levels.
Where the Greenway Runs (Town by Town)
Alpharetta Section
The Alpharetta portion is the most developed and the busiest.
Key access points
- Webb Bridge Road
- Mansell Road
- Old Alabama Road
This stretch runs close to Avalon, offices, apartment communities, and retail centers. Expect:
- Heavy foot traffic on weekends
- Commuter cyclists during weekday mornings
- Families with strollers in the afternoons
It’s also the best section if you want amenities nearby—coffee, restrooms, and food are never far away.
Roswell Section
Roswell’s segment feels more wooded and slightly quieter, especially once you move south.
Popular access points
- Azalea Drive
- Holcomb Bridge Road
This section includes long boardwalks over wetlands and creek crossings. It’s especially popular with:
- Runners training for distance
- Birdwatchers and photographers
- Walkers looking for a calmer pace
The Roswell stretch connects well with local parks and neighborhoods, making it ideal for longer, uninterrupted outings.
Johns Creek Section
Johns Creek has fewer access points, but the trail here feels wider and more open.
Access points
- State Bridge Road
- Kimball Bridge Road (nearby connectors)
This portion is favored by:
- Cyclists maintaining steady speed
- Fitness walkers
- Residents using the trail daily rather than occasionally
Traffic tends to be lighter than Alpharetta, especially on weekdays.
Big Creek Greenway by Section (Quick Comparison)
| Section | Approx. Length | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Alpharetta | ~4 miles | Families, casual walks, and easy access to nearby amenities |
| Roswell | ~3 miles | Runners, a calmer pace, and more wooded boardwalk stretches |
| Johns Creek | ~1.5–2 miles | Cyclists, steady fitness walking, and lighter weekday traffic |
Note: Lengths are approximate and reflect the main continuous segments most visitors use.
Local insight
Regular users say the greenway feels busiest in Alpharetta after mid-morning on weekends, especially near the Mansell and Webb Bridge access points. Roswell sections tend to stay noticeably calmer, even during peak seasons, while early weekday mornings across all three cities offer the quietest and most relaxed experience.
How to Get There (and Where to Park)
Parking is straightforward but varies by section.
Alpharetta
- Webb Bridge Road trailhead (dedicated parking)
- Mansell Road access near office parks
Roswell
- Azalea Drive parking lot
- Limited roadside parking near Holcomb Bridge
Johns Creek
- Smaller lots near trail access points
- Some neighborhood-adjacent parking (posted signs apply)
Tip: Weekend mornings fill up quickly in Alpharetta. If you prefer space, head to Roswell or Johns Creek before 10 a.m.
Who the Big Creek Greenway Is Best For
Families
- Smooth surface for strollers
- Flat grades
- Plenty of short out-and-back options
Runners
- Mile markers in some sections
- Long uninterrupted stretches
- Soft-shoulder areas in select spots
Cyclists
- Ideal for casual and fitness riding
- Not designed for high-speed racing
- Courtesy and signaling are essential in busy zones
Remote workers
- Popular walking-break destination
- Good cellular coverage in most areas
- Benches and shaded spots throughout
What to Know Before You Go
- Dogs are allowed, leashes required
- No public restrooms directly on the trail (use nearby parks or commercial areas)
- Bikes yield to pedestrians; pedestrians yield to runners—local etiquette matters
- Boardwalk sections can be slippery after rain
Early mornings and weekday afternoons are the calmest times overall.
Seasonal Notes
- Spring: Wildflowers and peak greenery
- Summer: Shaded sections help, but humidity is real—go early
- Fall: The most popular season; foliage draws crowds
- Winter: Open year-round, quieter, surprisingly pleasant on sunny days
Big Creek Greenway FAQs
Is the Big Creek Greenway safe?
Yes. The Big Creek Greenway is generally considered safe and well-used throughout the day, especially in Alpharetta and Roswell. Like any public trail, it’s best enjoyed during daylight hours, and higher-traffic sections tend to feel the most comfortable for first-time visitors.
How long is the Big Creek Greenway?
The Big Creek Greenway currently stretches just over 8 miles, running through Alpharetta, Roswell, and Johns Creek. Additional extensions are planned, but the existing route already supports long, uninterrupted walks and rides.
Can you bike the entire Big Creek Greenway?
Yes, the full length of the greenway is paved and suitable for biking. It’s ideal for casual and fitness cycling, though riders should expect slower speeds in busier sections, particularly in Alpharetta on weekends.
Are there bathrooms on the Big Creek Greenway?
There are no public restrooms directly on the trail itself. Most users rely on nearby parks, city facilities, or commercial areas close to major access points, especially in Alpharetta and Roswell.
Is the Big Creek Greenway crowded?
Crowding depends on location and time. Alpharetta sections can be busy on weekends and during late afternoons, while Roswell and Johns Creek tend to feel quieter, especially on weekday mornings and mid-day hours.
Does the Big Creek Greenway have mile markers?
Some sections of the Big Creek Greenway include mile or distance markers, particularly in busier areas used by runners. Coverage isn’t perfectly consistent, so many regular users rely on fitness apps or watches to track distance.
Is the Big Creek Greenway flat?
Yes. The greenway is designed to be mostly flat, with very gentle elevation changes. This makes it accessible for strollers, beginner cyclists, and walkers of all ages.
Can you bring dogs on the Big Creek Greenway?
Dogs are allowed on the Big Creek Greenway but must be kept on a leash. It’s one of the most popular trails in North Atlanta for dog walking, especially during early mornings and evenings.
What time does the Big Creek Greenway open and close?
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk, following local park and greenway guidelines. There is no artificial lighting along most sections, so evening use is limited once daylight fades.
Which section of the Big Creek Greenway is the quietest?
The Roswell and Johns Creek sections are typically quieter than Alpharetta, especially on weekdays. Early mornings across all sections tend to offer the most peaceful experience.
