Download free topo maps of Chattahoochee River Recreation Area. Use the adjoining 7.5 minute quadrangle legend to locate the Georgia maps you need.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is situated near Sandy Springs, Georgia; in close proximity to the city of Atlanta where the Chattahoochee River meanders through the city suburbs. The meaning of the name Chattahoochee has been translated as "River of Painted Rocks" or "Land of Flowered Rocks" and the Cherokee called the river the "Enchanted Land." Evidence of prehistoric man taking shelter under the rock overhangs along the river has been found; while later Native Indians recognized this unique river environment not only as a place of beauty but as a place of habitation that offered fertile soil, fish and wildlife in abundance for their needs. During the 1970s when development along the banks of the Chattahoochee increased, the need for formation of the National Recreation Area arose, in order to protect the natural resources, the historical and cultural resources as well as the recreational opportunities that were made available to the public. There are a many cultural resources in the Park, from the Native American archeological sites, prehistoric trail crossings, fish weirs, farms, cemeteries, Civil War earthworks, old bridges and more that are included in the chain of park units comprising the National Recreational Area. This magnificent Park along one of the oldest rivers in the United States offers hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, picnic areas and all kinds of water sports. Flowers and wildlife in abundance can be viewed; and birds swooping down for fish all can be spotted. A stop at the Island Ford Visitor Center offers exhibits and brochures identifying the fifteen park units and more than 50 miles of hiking trails and where to find the fishing shoals. The Park Service recommends asking for a driving map at the Vistor's Center, as GPS directions sometimes lead to dead end roads. Ranger lead hikes, interpretive walks and more are virtually a daily activity during the summer months. With over 9,000 acres of land forming the units in this spectacular river Park, there are a multitude of opportunities to enjoy either one or more of the segments comprising this "Enchanted Land".