Palisades Unit
The only section of the Chattahoochee River NRA that is inside the Perimeter (I285), the 695 acre Palisades Unit is split in two halves by the Chattahoochee River. Upland ridge trails lead to panoramas of the river gorge and down through the wooded forests to floodplain trails where rock outcroppings, sandy beaches, and expanses of shoal-water can be seen.

The stone ruins of the 19th century grist mill operated by the Akers brothers overlook Rottenwood Creek. A small village constructed for the mill workers is now long vanished. The creek also has sand beaches, and large boulders for sunbathing or picnicking.

Wildflowers bloom from March to October. The Yellow Trout Lily and the White Bloodroot signal spring's arrival. The Purple Gentian braves the chill October winds at the river's edge.

An overlook offers a majestic view of the Devil's Race Course Shoals which was named by river boatmen because the shoals were the "devil" to navigate. Also, the rugged granite palisades were dubbed, "Devil's Stairsteps."

For thousands of years, Native Americans lived along the river; villages flourished and then vanished. One of the largest rock shelters in the park is located 1/2 mile upstream from Long Island Creek.

A variety of wildlife is found in the Palisades. You can see where beavers have been at work. Also, if you look carefully, you may see Great Blue Herons and Kingfishers dive to capture fish and Mallards feed in the river.

Permit Information
State law requires fishermen to have a valid Georgia fishing license, a trout stamp, and one hand held pole. All natural bait is prohibited.

Directions
Access from Akers Dr off of Akers Mill Rd or Indian Trail Rd off of Northside Dr.

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