Roswell River Parks Fitness Loop Trail

Just north of Atlanta in Roswell, GA, Starr Whitehouse is creating a new system of riverfront open spaces on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Consisting of four parks whose unique ecologies, geologies and histories of use shape site-specific programs, the system will increase waterfront recreation while expanding native riverine habitat.

To connect the sites, Starr Whitehouse is transforming a mile of existing trailway into a fitness loop and woodland adventure trail − featuring outdoor fitness pods, restored native plantings, and green infrastructure integrated directly into the recreational space. The new design makes extensive use of salvaged materials to minimize impact and preserve site identity. The trunks of dead or dying trees are repurposed as site seating and paving slats. Site boulders are repositioned to create a series of stabilized waterfront access points, while rounded riverstones line the bioswale running under the meandering path. Built to withstand flooding, the first phase of the path survived complete inundation during Hurricane Helene with negligible damage.