Cascade Waterfall — an FDR favorite

Living near Columbus, GA doesn’t offer a lot of hiking options, but the 23-mile Pine Mountain Trail in FDR State Park is certainly a good option when you are looking to get outside (about 30 minutes north).

It’s even worth a day trip from Atlanta and can be coupled with a side trip to historic Warm Springs and FDR’s Little White House.

My favorite hike is the 6.7 mile Wolf Den Loop which offers great views, varied terrain and three separate waterfalls. FDR apparently enjoyed the waterfalls, especially the one known as Cascade Waterfall. Not exactly sure how he got to it, though. 

You can choose to hike the entire 6.7 mile loop or just turn around after hitting all three waterfalls (about 4 miles total). The hike isn’t terribly strenuous, but it is a nice way to get out, get a little muddy and clear your mind. The trail is safe for leashed dogs as well.

On the weekends, expect to share the trail with runners, families and other pets. Get there early for the most solitude. See the trip report for directions and more details.