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Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Mysteries of the Mills: Historic Paper Mill Ranger-Led Walk

Description

Join the National Park Service for a walk through time as you stroll through the mature oak-hickory forest down the ridge to the scenic beauty of Sope Creek. Cross over the bridge and into the nineteenth century to discover the stories behind the massive stone ruins of the once bustling Marietta Paper Manufacturing Company. Discover what it was like to work in the mills, the process of making paper, and more. Learn about the uses of plants along the trail as medicine, dyes, and more. The mysteries of the mills will be revealed as you walk through time from 1855 to1903. The remaining stone walls of the mill ruins have seen much and have many stories to tell. Learn these wonderful stories; fact, fable, and downright lie as you stroll along Sope Creek. Who was Chief Sope, what tragedy befell poor Johnny Dickerson, why did the mills close, and what occurred during July, 1864? Join us and find out!

We will meet at the bulletin board in front of the Sope Creek parking lot of Cochran Shoals Unit, 3760 Paper Mill Road, Marietta, Georgia 30068.

Facilities: Water only; no restrooms. Close by facilities at Terrell Mill Park 1.5 miles west @ 480 Terrill Mill Rd, Marietta, GA 30067

Difficulty: Easy-moderate, with some hills.

Bring: Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a forest trail. Bring water and you might include snacks.

About the Park

Explore Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area and discover its natural wonders, scenic landscapes, and outdoor adventures.

Learn more about Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Event & Park Photos

Two adult Great Blue Herons stand watch over their 3 young chicks in the nest.
1 of 5

Great Blue Herons are plentyful along the river. Look towards the tree tops along the river to spot their nest. If you're lucky the whole will be home.

Credit: NPS Photo/Tom Wilson

Two adult Great Blue Herons stand watch over their 3 young chicks in the nest.
Park ranger showing a group of school children the critter on his arm.
Stone ruins of the Marietta Paper Mill surrounded by lush green vegatation.
Angler in waders landing a fish using a landing net.
Trail heading off under a canopy of trees.

Event Details

Regular EventGuided TourHikeWalk

Date & Time

Schedule: Recurring Event

From: Aug 23, 2025

Times:

09:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Location

Sope Creek - Cochran Shoals Park Unit Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area 3760 Paper Mill Rd, Marietta, GA, 30067

Cost

Free

Program is free. Park entrance pass ($5 daily or $40 annual) required.

Registration

Register Now

Registration Information

https://chattahoocheeparks.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F22847