Smyrna-Vinings Patch Picks: A Weekend Peek Outdoors

It’s all about the bike at our spectacular Silver Comet Trail. Bring your own or rent one at nearby shops (Smyrna Bicycles and Silver Comet Depot) for an afternoon of pleasant cruising. A paved trail built over an old railroad line (hence the name Silver Comet), this path is free and open to the public. In addition to bikes, the path attracts joggers, rollerbladers, dog walkers and even horses. People are friendly, but adhere to road traffic rules: travel on the right side and pass on the left.

It’s the perfect weekend for a score of Love-All. Dust off your racket, gather some friends, and play a couple of sets of tennis. Whether it’s a lazy volley session or an intense competition, tennis is great exercise. Local public courts are available at Rhyne Park and .

Taylor-Brawner Park is a gorgeously landscaped 10-acre site on Atlanta Road. Stroll along the gently meandering walking trail and end up relaxing for a spell in the lovely gazebo. Or let your kids burn off some energy at the top-notch playground while you placidly catch up on your book and soak up the sun. A lunch picnic is something for everyone to enjoy. No one says it has to be homemade.

If you’re feeling slightly more athletic as far as walking trails, try Cochran Shoals Chattahoochee Recreation Area off Powers Ferry Road. There you’ll find several miles of modest unpaved trails looping along the river and through the woods, with beautiful scenery. A modest $3 parking fee helps fund the park services.

After your workout, find a place with a deck or patio to unwind and catch the remainder of the afternoon’s winter sunshine. has a large patio out front. Grab your fancy coffee, frappuccino, or chai latte and settle in for some excellent and entertaining people-watching.