Recently I toured Alberta, Canada which included several national parks as well as the
Athabasca Glacier and Lake Louise. The dramatic peaks, turquoise lakes, and glacier
hikes made for an unforgettable experience. And while the Canadian landscape is truly
amazing as well as the unique wild game cuisine, we're fortunate that we have a little bit
of Canada right here in our backyard.
The Georgia Piedmont may not have towering summits, but its local parks offer outdoor escapes that blend natural beauty with history and recreation. The Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell is a perfect starting point, with interactive exhibits, wildlife encounters, and scenic boardwalk trails along the river. Just a few minutes away, Vickery Creek at Old Mill Park showcases rushing waterfalls, the historic Roswell Mill ruins, and a covered pedestrian bridge, making it one of the area’s most photographed hiking spots. Families often gather at Riverside Park, where open fields, a playground, and riverfront trails provide space for picnics, festivals, and leisurely walks. Down the road, Azalea Park is a hub for kayaking, paddle boarding, or simply enjoying the peaceful views of the Chattahoochee. For those who prefer cycling or long-distance hiking, Big Creek Park and the Big Creek Greenway offer miles of shaded paved trails, perfect for biking, running, or spotting wildlife like deer and herons.
Adding to Roswell’s outdoor treasures, Don White Memorial Park is a favorite for river
access, whether you’re launching a kayak or casting a fishing line. Willeo Park, a
smaller gem, provides serene riverside views and is especially popular with bird
watchers and nature photographers. For a wooded retreat, Leita Thompson Memorial
Park offers a mix of shaded walking trails, a peaceful pond, and off-leash areas for
dogs, making it a well-loved spot for both hikers and pet owners.
And for a taste of “Canada,” try the following restaurants that feature unique cuisine and wild game from the great outdoors. Ted’s Montana Grill (Alpharetta) is best known for its bison dishes, from hearty burgers to perfectly seared steaks. Vin 25 (Roswell)
combines rustic charm with a wine bar atmosphere, often pairing seasonal wild game
specials with carefully curated vintages. Oak Steakhouse (Alpharetta) elevates the
dining experience with premium cuts, fresh seafood, and occasional wild game offerings in an upscale setting. Together, these spots bring a rustic yet refined slice of Canada’s adventurous cuisine to North Fulton.
Article by Jeff Fischer
Originally published in Roswell City Lifestyle