New Manchester Mill Ruins – Bridge over Sweetwater Creek loop from Sweetwater Creek State Park
New Manchester Mill Ruins – Bridge over Sweetwater Creek loop from Sweetwater Creek State Park
4.7
(5378)
14,946
hikers
New Manchester Mill Ruins – Bridge over Sweetwater Creek loop from Sweetwater Creek State Park
02:43
9.69km
190m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.35 km
The Hunger Games location
Highlight • River
3.92 km
New Manchester Mill Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
4.22 km
Christmas Fern
Highlight • Natural
7.48 km
New Manchester Mill Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
8.41 km
Bridge over Sweetwater Creek
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
9.69 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.61 km
2.70 km
350 m
Surfaces
6.05 km
2.65 km
953 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (350 m)
Lowest point (240 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Sunday 19 July
33°C
22°C
89 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a hike that blends fascinating history with beautiful natural scenery, the New Manchester Mill Ruins – Bridge over Sweetwater Creek loop from Sweetwater Creek State Park is definitely worth your time. This moderate hiking route covers 6.0 miles (9.7 km) with 638 feet (195 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 2 hours and 43 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for those who enjoy exploring historical landmarks while getting a good workout, making it one of the more popular routes in the area.
What to expect on New Manchester Mill Ruins – Bridge over Sweetwater Creek loop from Sweetwater Creek State Park
This trail offers a journey through diverse landscapes, starting with peaceful hardwood forests that give way to the dramatic banks of Sweetwater Creek. You'll encounter impressive white-water rapids and cascading streams, but the real highlight is the five-story New Manchester Mill Ruins, a mid-19th-century textile mill burned during the Civil War, which stands majestically by the creek. While some sections, especially along the creek and past the ruins, can be rocky and steep, the overall moderate difficulty makes it accessible for most hikers. Keep an eye out for Mountain Laurel blooming in spring and enjoy the elevated rock overlooks that provide expansive views of the whitewater.
Planning your visit
Sweetwater Creek State Park is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Atlanta, making it an easy escape into nature. Parking is available at the trailhead, but arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea, especially on weekends. Be aware that after heavy rain, the rocks along the creek can become quite slippery, so consider bringing trekking poles for added stability. Access to the interior of the mill ruins is restricted to guided tours, but the exterior is fully open for viewing.
Trail details
- Distance: 6.0 miles (9.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 638 feet (195 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 43 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free