While Georgia tends to have an eclectic and interesting history, (Check out: The Deadly History Of This Georgia Prison Is Terrifying But True.) there are still many parts of The Peach State that continuously surprise and delight. How many other hiking trails can you say lead to beautiful ruins with a spectacular history? Not many. But this one might just be the coolest of them all.

The Sope Creek Trail in Marietta, Georgia is not just a stunning hike, but a beautiful trip back in time.

TripAdvisor LKNCHOWHOUND

This short 1.5-mile roundtrip hike will take guests into the woods to see the ruins of the Marietta Paper Mill in person.

TripAdvisor William S.

These strange ruins date back all the way to the 1800s, and carry with them a harrowing tale.

Flickr Wayne Hsieh

The Marietta Paper Mill once produced fine papers before the onset of The Civil War.

TripAdvisor LKNCHOWHOUND

Once the war began, Marietta Paper Mill began production in currency and bonds in order to help Confederate Troops.

TripAdvisor mlorahga

However, it wasn’t until after the battle at Kennesaw Mountain that Union Troops came across the mill and burned it to the ground.

Flickr Wayne Hsieh

While the mill was rebuilt after the water and continued operation all the way until 1902, it unfortunately didn’t last much longer.

TripAdvisor mlorahga

Guests can hit the Sope Creek Trail and see the ruins firsthand.

TripAdvisor JNFII

While the ruins may be eerie for some, there is a collective appreciation that little pockets of history like this still exits in Georgia.

TripAdvisor Samuel D.

No matter what, seeing in person the historic mill ruins on the banks of the Sope Creek is truly a gem in the middle of Georgia.

Flickr Wayne Hsieh

Ready to plan a trip to Sope Creek? You can use the address below to find the trailhead:

TripAdvisor LKNCHOWHOUND

TripAdvisor William S.

Flickr Wayne Hsieh

TripAdvisor mlorahga

TripAdvisor JNFII

TripAdvisor Samuel D.

3760 Paper Mill Rd SE, Marietta, GA 30067

Have you ever visiting the historic paper mill ruins? Share with your experience in the comments section!

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