Atlanta on Two Wheels: How to Bike the Beltline Like a Local

From quiet parks to bustling neighborhoods, biking the Beltline lets you slow down and experience the city in ways a car can’t. Whether you’re a seasoned commuter or a weekend explorer, every ride uncovers a new piece of Atlanta’s story. 

We recently connected with some dedicated Beltline cyclists to gather their favorite routes, tips, and hidden gems for making the most of your ride. 

Why Bike the Beltline? 

For ‘Pinky Disco,’ it’s freedom: “We’ve been a carless family for over 5 years now and that’s largely possible due to the access the Beltline provides.”  

Hugh Malkin, who bikes his kids to and from school, says the trail provides access to all essentials — from shopping and dining to leisure activities: “It’s our primary way of getting around the neighborhood.”  

Commuters like Chris Morphis, Rebecca Serna, and Makeisha of the Happy Black Parent see it as a safe, sustainable, and joyful way to move through Atlanta.  

Chris adds, “Riding the trail is always nice for recreation, but its true power is in connecting huge areas of the city for non-motorized traffic.” 

What Routes to Bike 

Pinky mainly heads east toward Madison Yards for grocery runs or west through the lush greenery of Westside Reservoir Park (a route she recommends to others). “It’s easy to forget you’re in the city,” she says. “The trails are so quiet one moment and buzzing the next.” 

Chris suggests commuting along Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard, taking the Westside Trail to Echo Street, and then cutting through into Midtown. 

Hugh endorses his family weekend ride starting in Piedmont Park and heading south to Glenwood, with a bagel stop at Emerald City Bagels on the Eastside Trail and a playground break at Lang-Carson Park. “It's our standard route, but we also use the Beltline as our default way to get to any festival or event happening in town,” he says. 

When to Ride 

All of these Beltline regulars gave the same advice to those looking to bike the Beltline for the first time: avoid peak hours on weekends and instead opt for the early morning or evening. 

“There's great energy on the trail early on,” Hugh notes. “It feels more like a shared space for commuters and people getting their exercise in, fellow cyclists and runners.” 

Beltline Views You Should Plan Your Ride Around 

• Pinky’s pick: A stretch on the Westside Trail where the skyline suddenly appears. “It feels like Atlanta’s flexing. I slow down every time and think, ‘We live here?!’” 

• Hugh recommends the unpaved Transit Trail that runs parallel to the Northeast Trail in Piedmont Park. “It feels like you've escaped into a forest, even though you're moments away from the heart of Midtown. That contrast is what makes the Beltline so unique.” 

• Rebecca loves the section of the Southwest Trail where it loops over a railroad track — and the murals under the Lee Street tunnel. “That’s the Beltline at its best,” she says. “Art, movement, and connection.” 

  

Hidden Gems and Refuel Spots for Your Itinerary 

• Pinky likes Little’s Food Store, JenChan’s, and Staplehouse — a Michelin-starred joint relaxed enough for families. “It’s the Beltline biker’s holy grail,” she says. “Tell them Pinky sent you.” 

• Hugh stops at Burle’s Bar or Victory Sandwich Bar along the Eastside Trail. On the Southwest Trail, he loves El Tesoro. 

• Lee + White is Chris’s go-to for food, drinks and climbing, or Trees Atlanta’s Botanical Garden for a peaceful pause.   

• Makeisha appreciates a “lovely little nature area” south of MLK Drive with a small wooden bridge. 

Final Tips for Biking the Trail 

• Safety first: Always wear a helmet. 
  “If my toddler spots you without one,” warns Pinky, “you’ll get a very loud ‘That’s not safe!’” 

• Be courteous and mind your speed. 
  Hugh reminds riders, “The Beltline is a multi-use path, not a velodrome. Always be ready to slow down or stop completely.” 

• Take the path less traveled and explore side streets. 
  Chris suggests mixing in low-traffic neighborhood streets. “You might be surprised at how easily and safely you can access off-trail destinations.” 

• Finally, stay present and be in the moment. 
  Rebecca says, “Put your phone away and enjoy what’s around you — that’s the point.” 

For these riders, the Beltline is more than a path — it’s community, connection, and possibility. 

“Biking the Beltline and the hope of better accessibility... are the main reasons for my family and I staying in Atlanta,” said Hugh. 

Ready to Ride? Grab your helmet and plan your route. The Beltline is waiting!