Reynolds Lake Oconee - 7 Family Friendly Hiking Trails

One of our favorite things to do during our research trips is to pack a picnic lunch and head out on a community's hiking trails. Whether by foot or on the seat of a bike, we love the natural scenery, the sounds of nature and smells of the fresh air. Our ideal hike leads us among a forest, along a sparkling lake or through a field of wildflowers. In fact, we've just returned from a weekend trip to Reynolds Lake Oconee, where we hiked and biked 3 of the lake's 7 fabulous nature trails near the Lake Oconee golf courses. After three days of biking, we were reminded how this is truly one of the best places to retire on a lake.

We believe the winter is an excellent time to explore the trails, and get a taste of the of the good life in Central Georgia. One of the most enjoyable things about Reynolds Lake Oconee is its privacy and incredibly smart master plan. And with more than 21 miles of nature trails, residents feel they're living in a world all to themselves. With approximately 10,000 acres of private land, there are beautiful lake views, boardwalks, bridges, golf courses and more. For Baby Boomers, this is an excellent way to stay healthy and spend leisurely days. 

When you go exploring golf resorts near Atlanta, here's the 7 hiking trails you'll find at Reynolds Lake Oconee:

1) At the north end of property, the Angel Pond Trail consists of 5.75 miles of path, mostly along a scenic cove of Lake Oconee (an incredible fishing spot, by the way). The trail begins along a long boardwalk and gives ample opportunity to catch an osprey nesting or an egret coasting along the glassy coves. Finish by strolling past the Jim Engh-designed Creek Club golf course. 

2) For braver hikers, the Armor’s Ford Trail at the north section of Reynolds follows the more dramatic elevation changes of the Creek Club Lake Oconee golf course. Be ready for a full workout during this 3.5-mile walk, which finishes at the Lake Club marina. 

3) The centrally located Oconee Trail is a popular hike for guests of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. It’s a moderate trail that moves through towering hardwoods and pines and passes several popular attractions including The Reynolds Golf Academy, The Kingdom at Reynolds, and multiple holes of the Oconee and National golf courses. 

4) The Saddle Ridge Trail is a 3-mile walk through white oaks, hickories, poplars, dogwoods, and loblolly pines that rise overhead. Listen for birds calling from the canopy, feel the wind rustling the trees, and enjoy the foliage adding perfume to the air. This trail is perfect for birding, tree identification, and tracking. Also take a special moment to wander through the Reflection Garden, built by members to memorialize loved ones within the community and located behind the Commons building. 

5) The Linger Longer Trail, starting at the Plantation marina, is 4 miles of hikes that wanders through two of Reynolds’ six Lake Oconee golf course (Plantation and National), passes numerous creeks and ponds, and offers several peeks at Lake Oconee. If you like to angle when you amble, bring along a fishing rod and plan to stop at the pier dock at Plantation Pavilion, Carolyn’s Pond, or the pond or lake pavilion at either end of Curtwright Place. It’s an especially scenic stroll when the dogwoods are in bloom. 

6 & 7) The North and South Trails, in the Great Waters neighborhood, cover 3 miles through this lovely community. Walk under the limbs of towering trees and alongside the Jack Nicklaus Signature Lake Oconee golf course. The South Trail begins at the clubhouse and finishes close to the community entrance, passing numerous holes on the front nine. The North Trail also begins at the clubhouse and finishes in the middle of the back nine among some of the most scenic holes on Lake Oconee - or anywhere else.

While we loved riding amongst Reynolds colorful flora, fauna and rolling hills, we were even more impressed with the well maintained first-class amenities. Residents enjoy a magnificent Lake Club Wellness Center, several elegant golf clubhouses, swimming pools, tennis courts, a frisbee lawn, and many more activities. Dining at the new National Tavern was so good, we ate there three nights in row! But the best aspect of the lake community for new home buyers is the smart Reynolds Signature home plans with great rooms, massive windows and state-of-the-art features near the Lake Oconee golf courses.

At Reynolds, lakefont or golf course homes can be customized for every buyer's needs. With more than 25 home designs to choose from in woodlands, golf or lake settings, you can select your plan, control your costs, and build the house of your dreams. Some of the basic features of Reynolds Signature home plans include:

• Golf course settings
• Classic dormers
• Traditional lap siding
• Tasteful stone accents
• Elevated ceilings
• Warm, natural lighting
• Outdoor living spaces
• And modern interior design

Of all the golf resorts near Atlanta, it's hard not to fall in love with Reynolds. 

If you're looking to escape the brutal winters, high taxes and concrete jungle, we're confident a day or two spent walking the hiking trails will give you an inside glimpse into one of the best places to retire on a lake. Our complimentary Lake Oconee relocation information will help you more. It's our pleasure to help.