Sawnee Mt. Preserve — Attraction in Cumming

A very nice hike and nice facility. I was hoping to get some bird photos but the time of day or the season had them napping or off visiting relatives. There was not a bird to be seen on the lower trails. But the patterns, textures and colors of are beautiful.

The climbing area looks like an awesome family outing spot but as expected, it's closed in February.

I did not have time to hike to the top, but the lower trails were well-maintained and an easy walk, even for this near 60-year-old with a bad knee.

I must admit being confused by the "fairy house" area sponsored by a local Girl Scout Troop. We have these in Maine as well, but the focus is always on educating the children in how to take care of our natural resources. Signs are posted educating people to use only natural materials like fallen branches, stones and leaves. I was surprised to see the path littered with plastics, metals, painted wood. It is obvious the children had fun, but it doesn't look like any Eco Badges were earned for this project.

DOGS? Yes or no? There's a sign off the parking lot saying dogs are not allowed but then a sign at the trail entrance saying dogs must be leashed. I came across one dog on a leash.

PEOPLE? I crossed paths with 8-10 hikers/walkers out enjoying the beautiful day. I'm guessing that when Spring hits and warmer temperatures arrive, there's a lot...

This place is my sanity...great place to exercise or just enjoy a natural setting with a view of the Ga mountains. Signed up to be a trail steward, great opportunity to help maintain trails for everyone and hang out with some great people. Caveat for dog lovers, yes there is a no dog rule. But the place isn't really built very well for dogs. For example, "Lizard! Squirrel! Let's go through the underbrush and see if we can catch them!" Of course, the paths zig-zags all over the mountain, so unless you hike there often enough to recognize trees...you really need to keep on the path regardless. I'm not saying that anyone's animal would ever leave their owner behind while chasing something exciting. However, if you lose sight of your animal, there are no fences between the mountain and Tribble Gap Road speeders. Hence my comment, the place really wasn't designed for dog walks. There are other parks in the county that are better designed for dogs and won't charge a $100+ fine if park rangers catch you (trust me, you won't be able to convince him that you missed all the red "no dog signs" at the parking lots and openings of all the trails). However, park admins from all the dog-friendly parks confirm that you will see that some other owners don't clean up after their animals (it's just the cost of having a dog...

This is such a nice place to take a short hike. There is also the option to take a longer excursion. The welcome center is very nice. There are bathrooms at all of the hiking trailheads. The directions on Sawnee Mountain are a little confusing but you'll eventually find the viewing area. I'm greatfull dogs aren't allowed. There are some historical gold mining areas on the mountain which have been preserved. The staff keeps the trails clean. Hammocks are not allowed a certain distance from the trailheads but people ignore that rule. And the last time I was there some younger people had to play their music for all of us to enjoy while they sat in their hammocks near the viewing deck. It's too bad they didn't "get" the idea of being quiet in the woods. Parts of the trails are very rocky other parts smooth. It takes forty minutes to the top from the welcome center and twenty from the other parking area. The back country trail I believe is five miles and it took me about an hour and forty minutes. All the trails can be overcrowded on the weekend. There is a native garden at one of the trailheads and a playground across the street. Water is available at the trailheads. I'm glad the area was saved and opened...