Sawnee Mountain Preserve

From the Indian Seats—formed of natural rock atop 2,000-foot Sawnee Mountain—hikers can enjoy views north to the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains and south toward metro Atlanta. The mountain is a special and unique asset in Forsyth County that could have been gobbled up by rapid development.

In 1994, a local landowner approached Trust for Public Land with the proposition of preserving over 800 acres of this mountainous terrain—nearly three times the size of Atlanta’s Piedmont Park—just 45 minutes from downtown. Understanding the unique opportunity presented by the landowner, TPL set out to convert Sawnee Mountain into a preserve for the public to enjoy.

“The mountain is more than just a natural landmark; it’s a part of our heritage and history of our county—and it is our obligation to preserve it for future generations,” said Forsyth County Administrator Stevie Mills in 2001.

Today, Sawnee Mountain Preserve is a 963-acre public park that provides a diverse array of experiences. The preserve’s signature feature is a natural rock 140-seat amphitheatre at the mountain’s summit.

Sawnee also is a popular destination for outdoor education and recreation. Visitors can enjoy instructional classes in rock climbing, rappelling, and backpacking – as well as environmental education programs in birding, botany, and nature appreciation.

This heavily wooded, wonderfully preserved sanctuary within striking distance of Atlanta serves as an important escape for many. Trust For Public Land is proud to be part of its story.