4.6
(50)
4,550
runners
324
runs
If you've ever tried planning jogging around North Decatur, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many parks and trails, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, run, and reviewed hundreds of routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. Consider this your shortcut to finding your next favorite run.
Jogging in North Decatur means embracing a landscape of rolling hills and a rich tree canopy, offering a diverse mix of paved paths and wooded trails. It's a place where you can find everything from gentle gradients perfect for a relaxed jog to routes with moderate elevation gains that will get your heart pumping. The region's commitment to connecting green spaces means you're never far from a scenic escape, often with the convenience of nearby cafes and amenities for a post-run refuel.
If you're looking for a solid, scenic run, we'd start with the Suspension bridge β Candler Lake loop from Emory University. At 6.7 miles (10.8 km), it offers a fantastic blend of green spaces and natural features. For a local favorite that's a bit shorter but still packed with charm, the Small Cascade loop from North Decatur, at 3.5 miles (5.7 km), is a perfect choice through parks and green spaces. With an average rating of 4.6 stars from our community, you can trust that these routes, and many more, are ready for you to explore with komoot.
Last updated: May 31, 2026
19
runners
4.31km
00:27
40m
40m
Easy run. Mostly paved surfaces.
8
runners
8.70km
00:55
80m
80m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.

7
runners
10.0km
01:08
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
6
runners
14.2km
01:30
150m
150m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3
runners
9.88km
01:02
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Popular around North Decatur
A small, dammed lake that once provided hydro-electricity to the Lullwater House estate. The lake contains fish and waterfowl.
0
0
A small pond that is fed from South Peachtree Creek. It has muddy banks and is not open to the public. There is a bench along the path to sit and enjoy the waterfowl and animals in the pond ecosystem.
0
0
A small, dammed lake that once provided hydro-electricity to the Lullwater House estate. The lake contains fish and waterfowl.
0
0
A 210-foot long bridge that was built in 2008 that crosses Southfork Peachtree Creek on Emory University's campus.
0
0
North Decatur offers a wide array of running routes, with over 300 trails available for exploration. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from easy strolls to more challenging runs.
Yes, North Decatur has over 30 easy running routes. Parks like Medlock Park and Dearborn Park offer well-maintained, mostly paved paths that are perfect for a leisurely jog or for beginners. These green spaces provide a pleasant environment for connecting with nature close to the city.
Jogging routes in North Decatur feature a diverse mix of terrain, from well-maintained paved paths in parks like Glenlake Park to more natural, wooded trails found in areas such as the Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve. You'll find a blend of green spaces, urban forest, and some routes with moderate elevation gains for those seeking a challenge.
Absolutely! Many routes pass through beautiful areas. For instance, you can explore the extensive trails of Mason Mill Park, which even features the ruins of the 1906 Decatur Waterworks. The Decatur Cemetery also offers a unique and peaceful setting with urban forest and nature trails. For broader connections, the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail extends into the greater Atlanta area, providing a scenic urban route.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse environment, which includes numerous parks, green spaces, and a mix of paved and wooded trails. The variety of options for different ability levels and the natural beauty are frequently highlighted.
Yes, North Decatur offers several excellent loop routes. A popular choice is the Small Cascade loop from North Decatur, a 3.6-mile trail that takes you through green spaces and local parks. Many of the local parks, such as Oakhurst Park, also feature paths that can be combined for circular jogs.
Many parks and trails in North Decatur are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. For example, Medlock Park and Glenlake Park are popular spots where you'll often see people jogging with their dogs. Always check specific park regulations before you go.
Yes, several parks offer family-friendly jogging paths. McKoy Park combines natural beauty with recreational facilities, including well-maintained gardens and a playground, making it suitable for families. Dearborn Park also features paved paths and a playground, ideal for a family outing.
Most major parks in North Decatur, such as Medlock Park, Glenlake Park, and Mason Mill Park, offer dedicated parking facilities for visitors. For trails like the PATH Trail, street parking or smaller lot access points are often available near trailheads.
North Decatur has various public transport options, primarily through MARTA bus routes, that can get you close to many parks and trailheads. For specific routes, it's best to check the MARTA website for the most current schedules and stops near your desired starting point.
For those seeking longer runs, routes like the Mary Scott Nature Park loop from Oak Grove Methodist Church Cemetery offer nearly 10 kilometers of varied terrain. Additionally, the broader PATH Trail and Atlanta Beltline networks provide extensive mileage for long-distance training, connecting various neighborhoods and parks.
North Decatur offers pleasant jogging conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall provide mild temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming flowers or changing leaves. Summers can be warm and humid, so early morning or late evening runs are recommended. Winters are generally mild, making year-round jogging feasible.
While specific cafes directly on every trail might be limited, North Decatur and the surrounding Decatur area are known for their vibrant local businesses. Many parks are situated within a short distance of neighborhoods with cafes, restaurants, and pubs where you can refuel after your run.


Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.