Carpe Diem at Island Ford (Autumn Edition)

Summer is gone, and a morning chill reminds us it's fall. Let's kick off the holiday season by seizin' the day. Island Ford is one of my favorite intown hikes. It is amazing to me that such beautiful scenery can be found so close to civilization. We will meet in the MIDDLE PARKING LOT - the second parking lot on your left after you enter the park. We'll then venture north along the Chattahoochee River before turning west along Summerbrook Creek. We will continue tromping through the woods and over a couple of bridges until we reach the newer section of the trail. We will loop around the newer section, circling back to glimpse the river before proceeding back over the bridges again. We will backtrack just a short distance before branching off along Beech Creek. For the final section of the hike we will meander along the river, then stop at a scenic vantage point.  

And now for the "Carpe Diem" part: As we return to the riverbank and head south back toward the Park Headquarters, we will pause for a brief rest and perhaps a snack on the rocks. "Carpe Diem" is a phrase from a Latin poem by Horace. The Roman poet Ovid used the word "carpe" in the sense of "enjoy, seize, or pluck the fruit of." "Diem" refers to "day." In the creative spirit of "carpe diem," please bring a poem, phrase, song verse, or riddle to share with the group as we enjoy a moment of reflection on the shore. Falling leaves, changing colors, life's transitions or sweater-weather themes are especially encouraged. We shall seize the day before returning to our cars.

Estimated distance for this hike is approximately 6 miles. Note this is not a beginner hike; we will take a few water breaks but keep a steady pace up and down the hills to get a good workout.

Parking fee of $5 required (or purchase an unlimited-visit annual pass that day for $40 at the headquarters building.).

$5.00 parking per car or annual CRNA parking pass