Great Running Trails in Georgia – Georgia International Horse Park

The Georgia International Horse Park is perhaps my all-time favorite place to go trail running. This incredible park was created for the 1996 Olympics, here in Atlanta. The GIHP is located in Conyers, GA, just 24 miles outside of Atlanta. The main arena for the horse park holds concerts, fairs, festivals, rodeos, hot air balloon races, corporate outings and much more every year. There is also a plethora of trails to use for horses, of course!  

My friends and I have used the GIHP for trail run training and just having an enjoyable day of running through the woods with great company. Running through nature can bring a calmness into your soul. It really is therapeutic after dealing with our hectic day-to-day lives.  

The GIHP was originally designed as an equestrian venue for the 1996 Olympics. Mountain bike trails were also designed to accommodate the off-road bike races. These trails are used quite frequently still by recreational mountain bikers as well as trail runners. There are a wide variety of races held at the Steeple Chase area every year. These races include mud runs, bike races, trail runs, etc.

In 2006 the Big Haynes Creek Nature Center was completed across from the main arena. The nature center has a 4/10 mile walking trail along the wetlands that connect to other trails on that side of the park. It also includes a canoe launch and an observation pavilion. This is a great place to take that special someone for an outdoor picnic!

Cherokee Run Golf Course is located within the GIHP for all of you golf enthusiasts. They have just renovated the greens by converting them to mini verde. They are expected to re-open the course to the public the first of September 2012. This is an absolutely gorgeous golf course that is a top favorite among golfers in the Atlanta area. Cherokee Run hosts many events in the Palmer Banquet Room. They have a great daily lunch menu as well as Sunday brunch.

As you can see there are many things that you can do here at The Georgia International Horse Park. Come on out and see what you can get into with us!