Cobb’s section of the Silver Comet Trail is a scenic 12.8-mile multi-use paved trail that begins in Smyrna and travels west through southern parts of the county. The trail follows the abandoned railroad line once traveled by the Silver Comet passenger train. The Silver Comet passenger train was introduced by Seaboard Air Line Railroad in 1947. Originally fitted with an observation car and sleep lounge cars, it carried passengers through southern cities like Atlanta and Birmingham to destinations in the north such as New York, Philadelphia and Washington.

As passengers traveled across the countryside, they were treated to a variety of scenic vistas. Today the rail has been converted by Cobb Department of Transportation into a multi-use trail that is designed for use by all. Casual walkers, hikers, joggers, bicyclists, inline skaters and people with disabilities can all use the trail and enjoy the same sights once reserved for the train’s passengers.

Traversing six trestles and bridges, the trail offers spectacular views and direct access to Heritage Park, a natural park that includes approximately 105 acres with 14.3 acres of wetland in four separate sites. Visitors can follow the 1.7-mile walking trail to the remains of a woolen mill.

The trail will ultimately extend 57 miles through Cobb, Paulding and Polk counties, and current plans call for this section to link with other trails and allow direct access between Atlanta and Birmingham.

Safety and Etiquette

The Silver Comet Trail is one of the top trails in the country. What was once was used for train travel is now utilized by casual walkers, hikers, joggers, bicyclists, inline skaters and people with disabilities. With such a diverse group sharing the trail, please keep follow these safety tips so your use of the Silver Comet Trail will be an enjoyable one:

• Be courteous and respectful to other users.
• Stay on the trail surface.
• Respect the privacy of adjacent landowners.
• Travel in a consistent and predictable manner.
• Keep right as you use the trail. Pass on the left and give a courteous and audible signal of your intention to pass.
• Stop, look and yield to traffic at crossings.
• Clean up your litter - help keep the trail clean for others.
• Keep pets leashed.
• No alcohol, or drugs.
• Cyclists and skaters should wear helmets.
• Use the buddy system.
• Use the trail only during daylight hours.

Although a special bicycle unit of the Cobb County Police Department enhances trail security, visitors are encouraged to use the buddy system and ride, walk or jog in pairs or groups.

Emergency Markers

Please note that Cobb County has installed additional trail markers along Silver Comet Trail as well as other trails within the County.  More information can be found on the new markers in the links below.

Cobb YouTube video on the Trail markers