Silver Comet Trail

Cobb’s first rails-to-trails project

Printable Trail Map
File Size: 163kb

Cobb’s section of the Silver Comet Trail is a scenic 12.8-mile multi-use paved trail that begins in Smyrna and travels west through southern parts of the county. The trail follows the abandoned railroad line once traveled by the Silver Comet passenger train.

The Silver Comet passenger train was introduced by Seaboard Air Line Railroad in 1947. Originally fitted with an observation car and sleep lounge cars, it carried passengers through southern cities like Atlanta and Birmingham to destinations in the north such as New York, Philadelphia and Washington.

As passengers traveled across the countryside, they were treated to a variety of scenic vistas. Today the rail has been converted by Cobb Department of Transportation into a multi-use trail that is designed for use by all. Casual walkers, hikers, joggers, bicyclists, inline skaters and people with disabilities can all use the trail and enjoy the same sights once reserved for the train’s passengers.

Traversing six trestles and bridges, the trail offers spectacular views and direct access to Heritage Park, a natural park that includes approximately 105 acres with 14.3 acres of wetland in four separate sites. Visitors can follow the 1.7-mile walking trail to the remains of a woolen mill.

The trail will ultimately extend 57 miles through Cobb, Paulding and Polk counties, and current plans call for this section to link with other trails and allow direct access between Atlanta and Birmingham.

Trailheads
Four trailheads have been constructed offering parking, restrooms, water fountains and related amenities. The trailheads are excellent places to access the trail and begin your adventure. They are open from dawn to dusk. For individuals who reside close to the trail, it can also be accessed at numerous cross streets. Nearby residents are encouraged to walk or cycle to these locations. The trailheads are located:

Silver Comet Depot

In a building that used to serve as the old train depot, the Silver Comet Depot now offers Bicycle/Skate rentals, accessories and concessions. The Silver Comet Depot is located at the Floyd Road Trailhead (4342 Floyd Road, Mableton). Call the Silver Comet Depot at (770) 819-3279 for more information .

Safety and Etiquitte
The Silver Comet Trail is one of the top trails in the country. What was once was used for train travel is now utilized by casual walkers, hikers, joggers, bicyclists, inline skaters and people with disabilities. With such a diverse group sharing the trail, please keep follow these safety tips so your use of the Silver Comet Trail will be an enjoyable one:

• Be courteous and respectful to other users.
• Stay on the trail surface.
• Respect the privacy of adjacent landowners.
• Travel in a consistent and predictable manner.
• Keep right as you use the trail. Pass on the left and give a courteous and audible signal of your intention to pass.
• Stop, look and yield to traffic at crossings.
• Clean up your litter - help keep the trail clean for others.
• Keep pets leashed.
• No alcohol, drugs or firearms.
• Cyclists and skaters should wear helmets.
• Use the buddy system.
• Use the trail only during daylight hours.

Although a special bicycle unit of the Cobb County Police Department enhances trail security, visitors are encouraged to use the buddy system and ride, walk or jog in pairs or groups.

For more information regarding the Silver Comet Trail, contact Rusty Simpson at
770-528-8840.

Useful Links:
Outdoor Program Calendar
Heritage Park
Educational Programs
Wright Enviromental Education Center
Cato Enviromental Education Center
Bartlett Property
Stout Park
East Cobb Park
Corps Property
Hunting Information
Adopt-a-Trail

<<< Back to Outdoor Program Home Page