Pickett’s Mill State Historic Site

Preserving the History that Took Place at Pickett's Mill

Pickett’s Mill State Historic Site is a hidden gem that we’ve visited often. Although this park is dedicated to preserving the history that took place there in May of 1864, there are four miles of hiking trails. The park’s 765 acres are nestled in a northwest corner of the Atlanta Metro Area.

Not only do the well-kept hiking trails take you through a pristine forest, a trip to Pickett’s Mill is truly a learning experience. Along the trails you will see unusual trees and plants, Pickett’s Mill Creek, earthworks and fieldworks created by troops, and a host of wildlife and birds.

Hiking at Pickett’s Mill is a Unique and Immersive Experience

Step back in time and experience the Civil War firsthand at Pickett’s Mill, one of the most well-preserved battlefields in the United States. Walk the very same roads used by Union and Confederate soldiers, and imagine the chaos of battle as you stand on the very ground where hundreds lost their lives.

Even if you’re not a history buff, taking a hike at Pickett’s Mill is a unique and immersive experience. Let the whispers of the past come alive as you explore this moving piece of American history.

The park is very well maintained, the trails are clearly marked, and there’s more to see than what you may imagine.

Unusual Trees, Plants, and Fungi Abound

Along the trails, you will see both common and unusual trees and plants, including American Beech trees and Trooping Crumble Cap mushrooms. Numerous types of ferns and umbrella magnolia trees add to the hiking experience in so many ways!

Four Miles of Hiking Trails

The six trails at Pickett’s Mill have varying lengths and difficulty levels. Two of the trails are labeled as “Easy Hike” and the other four are labeled “Moderate to Strenuous Hike” – the more difficult trails are due to the steep valleys throughout the park.

One of the Easy Hike trails is an enjoyable half-mile trek to the 1853-dated cabin called the Cabin Connector. For a glimpse into civilian life during the war, explore the authentic 1800s pioneer cabin, complete with period furnishings.

The trail we hiked on this day was the Blue Trail that took us along a 1.5-mile journey that included trenches, artillery encampments, and original roads. View the park’s trail map.

Along the trails, there are placards like the one pictured below that describe certain features of the site.

Park Notes and Information

- Leashed pets are allowed.
- A parking fee of $5.00 or a Georgia State Park Annual Pass is required.
- Another option for an annual park pass is purchasing a membership to Friends of Georgia State Parks. Memberships include parking passes and entry discounts.
- Site Admission:
  Adults (18–61): $6.00
  Seniors (62+): $4.50
  Youth (6–17): $3.50
  All rates are plus tax. Note there also discounts for service members and students – ask at the front desk.
- There is a small but interesting museum in the visitors center. It includes actual relics found at the park!

Pickett’s Mill Location and Hours

- Address: 4432 Mount Tabor Church Road, Dallas, GA 30157, Paulding County (Google Map)
- Phone: 770-443-7850
- Hours:
  Historic Site – Open 7 days 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  Museum – Friday–Sunday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day
- Trail Map : Download the park’s trail map (PDF)