Nestled in the rolling hills of Harris County, Georgia, the Man O’ War Trail represents one of West Georgia’s best-kept secrets and most rewarding cycling experiences. This 13.5-mile paved rail trail connects the charming communities of Pine Mountain and Hamilton, following the historic path of the Central of Georgia Railway through some of the most scenic countryside in the region. Named after both a legendary racehorse and the diesel passenger train that once traversed this route, the Man O’ War Trail offers cyclists, runners, and walkers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, natural beauty, and railroad heritage that makes it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Trail: Length, Route, and Character
The Man O’ War Trail stretches 13.5 miles through Harris County, beginning at the Harris County/Meriwether County line in Pine Mountain and extending south to Mulberry Creek near Cataula. Unlike many rail trails that advertise themselves as perfectly flat, the Man O’ War Trail offers a more engaging experience with over 500 feet of elevation change across its length—a feature that makes it particularly popular with serious cyclists looking for training opportunities while remaining accessible to casual riders and families.
The trail features a smooth, 10-foot-wide paved surface that accommodates multiple user types, from road cyclists and mountain bikers to runners, walkers, and inline skaters. E-bikes are welcome on the trail, though other motorized vehicles are not allowed except for motorized wheelchairs. The asphalt surface is consistently praised by users for its excellent maintenance and smooth riding quality, making it suitable for all types of bicycles and even road bikes with narrow tires.
The trail’s character evolves as users travel from north to south. The ten-foot-wide, paved trail conveniently begins in beautiful downtown Pine Mountain, where trail users can find parking, bike parking and refreshments. The trail then travels along the converted railroad right-of-way sandwiched between US 27/Main Street and Commerce Avenue. In the first mile through downtown Pine Mountain, the trail runs close to the road, providing easy access to the town’s amenities—restaurants, shops, visitor centers, and the charming small-town atmosphere that makes Pine Mountain a beloved tourist destination.
Heading south through town, the trail peels away from the road at about the mile mark and starts to become more shrouded with trees. This transition marks the beginning of the trail’s more rural character. As users continue south, they’re treated to increasingly scenic views of preserved forests, agricultural land, and the characteristic low ridges of west-central Georgia’s Piedmont region. The trail extends south past Callaway Gardens and FDR State Park, two of the region’s most significant attractions, offering trail users convenient access to world-class botanical gardens and extensive state park facilities.
The town of Hamilton, located roughly at the trail’s midpoint, provides another opportunity for refreshment and rest. Passing through Hamilton, the trail winds another 3.15 miles south towards Cataula before coming to a dead end at Mulberry Creek. This phase begins just south of Hamilton across from the old Carver School on U.S. 27 and extends the trail an additional three miles to Mulberry Creek.
Trailheads and Access Points
One of the Man O’ War Trail’s greatest strengths is its excellent access infrastructure, with six trailheads with parking (from north to south: Chipley, Downtown Pine Mountain, Hood, Callaway Country Store, Hamilton Square, and South Hamilton). This extensive trailhead system means users are never far from parking, and it provides flexibility for riders of different abilities to choose sections that match their fitness level and time constraints.
Each trailhead has an informational kiosk with an updated trail map showing trailheads, mile markers, elevations, restrooms, parking, and more. This attention to detail makes the trail particularly welcoming to first-time visitors who may be unfamiliar with the area. The mile markers, provided by the Chamber of Commerce, help users track their progress and plan their rides effectively.
Downtown Pine Mountain serves as the primary northern access point and is particularly popular due to its proximity to restaurants, shops, and services. There’s plenty of street parking at the north end of the trail in downtown Pine Mountain (Commerce Avenue). The Downtown Pine Mountain trailhead is located at approximately mile marker 0.5, and there are restrooms at the Pine Mountain Visitor Center, which is conveniently located near the trail.
Chipley Trailhead provides the northernmost access point near the Harris/Meriwether county line. This location is ideal for riders who want to complete the full trail distance or who are exploring the area near FDR State Park.
Hood Trailhead offers access to the middle sections of the trail between Pine Mountain and the Callaway Country Store.
Callaway Country Store Trailhead has become a favorite stop for many trail users. Located near the intersection of GA 190 and US 27, you can also park near the middle of the trail in the parking lot across from the Country Store on 27. The Country Store itself offers refreshments and provides a convenient mid-trail rest stop. This location also provides the closest parking to some of the trail’s most scenic sections and to nearby Callaway Gardens.
Hamilton Square and South Hamilton trailheads provide access to the trail in Hamilton, the largest town along the route. In Hamilton you can park at the school when it’s not in session or in the town center. The Hamilton trailheads are particularly convenient for those who want to explore the town or grab refreshments at local establishments.
There are restrooms at the Pine Mountain Visitor Center and at the Harris County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center. However, riders should note that restroom facilities become more limited in the southern sections of the trail, particularly south of Hamilton. Users should plan accordingly for longer rides.
A Phased Development: Building the Trail
Built in phases, the trail’s latest section recently opened to the public in August 2023 and marked the completion of phase 6. This phased approach to trail development has allowed Harris County to methodically extend the trail southward while maintaining high construction quality and managing costs effectively.
Phase VI of the Man O’ War trail is now open. This phase begins just south of Hamilton across from the old Carver School on U.S. 27 and extends the trail an additional three miles to Mulberry Creek. This phase was completed by Robinson Paving at a cost of $1.14M and was paid from TSPLOST Funds. The use of Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) funding demonstrates the community’s commitment to investing in quality-of-life infrastructure that benefits both residents and visitors.
The trail’s development represents years of planning, community advocacy, and strategic investment in transforming an abandoned railroad corridor into a valuable recreational resource. Each phase has added new miles of paved trail, extending the reach of this important amenity deeper into Harris County’s scenic countryside.
Future Expansion: Toward Columbus
The Man O’ War Trail’s story is far from complete. The completion of the final phase—eight miles from Mulberry Creek to the Columbus/Muscogee County line—is scheduled for 2026/2027. This extension would bring the trail to approximately 21.5 miles in total length, creating one of the longer rail trails in Georgia and establishing a significant recreational corridor between Pine Mountain and the outskirts of Columbus, Georgia’s second-largest city.
If completed as planned, this expansion would transform the Man O’ War Trail from a regional amenity into a trail of statewide significance. The connection to the Columbus/Muscogee County line would also open the possibility of future extensions into Columbus itself, potentially creating a paved trail connection from a major metropolitan area to the resort community of Pine Mountain and the natural attractions of FDR State Park and Callaway Gardens.
The last eight miles of the trail from Mulberry Creek to the Columbus/Muscogee County line is scheduled to be completed during 2026/2027 and funded by TSPLOST funds when they become available. This continued use of TSPLOST funding demonstrates ongoing public support for trail development and suggests that Harris County views the Man O’ War Trail as a long-term investment in community health, recreation, and economic development.
The Namesake: A Legendary Horse and a Passenger Train
The Man O’ War Trail carries a name steeped in both sporting legend and railroad history. The trail honors two distinct but interconnected legacies: the greatest racehorse of the early 20th century and the diesel passenger train named in his honor.
Man O’ War: The Legendary Racehorse
Man O’ War was an American Thoroughbred who many consider the greatest racehorse of all time. Foaled in 1917, this magnificent chestnut colt dominated American horse racing from 1919 to 1920, winning 20 of his 21 races. His only loss came in the Sanford Memorial Stakes at Saratoga as a two-year-old, a defeat attributed to a poor start. The horse that beat him that day, Upset, gave the English language a new word for an unexpected defeat.
Man O’ War never raced in the Kentucky Derby—his owner, Samuel Riddle, considered the race’s early May date too demanding for a three-year-old. Instead, Man O’ War won the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, along with numerous other important races. He set multiple track records and won by margins that astonished racing fans. In the 1920 Lawrence Realization Stakes, he won by 100 lengths. His superiority was so pronounced that he often started as odds-on favorite at prohibitive odds like 1-100.
After retiring to stud in 1920, Man O’ War became the most influential sire of his era, producing champions like War Admiral (winner of the 1937 Triple Crown) and Battleship (winner of the 1938 Grand National). Man O’ War died in 1947 at the age of 30, and his funeral was broadcast on national radio—an honor typically reserved for heads of state. He remains enshrined in racing history as “Big Red,” the standard against which all other racehorses are measured.
The Man O’ War Passenger Train
Established by the Central of Georgia Railway in 1947, the Man O’ War spanned from Columbus to Atlanta and stopped daily in Pine Mountain for over 20 years. The train was named in honor of the legendary racehorse, capitalizing on Man O’ War’s fame to attract passengers and add prestige to the service.
The Man O’ War passenger train represented the final chapter in American passenger rail’s golden age. Launched in 1947, just as automobiles were beginning to dominate American transportation, the train served business travelers, tourists, and locals traveling between Columbus—a significant industrial center—and Atlanta, Georgia’s capital and largest city. The daily stop in Pine Mountain provided crucial transportation links for this resort community and the nearby Warm Springs area, famous as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s retreat.
The tracks remained in use after the Man O’ War was retired, mainly for carrying freight, and were traversed frequently until being fully decommissioned in 2007. Like most American passenger trains of the mid-20th century, the Man O’ War couldn’t compete with the convenience of automobiles and the speed of commercial aviation. Passenger service likely ended in the 1960s or early 1970s, following the pattern of most regional passenger trains during this period.
The tracks continued to serve freight customers for several decades after passenger service ended, carrying goods between Columbus and points north. However, by the early 2000s, changing freight patterns and the economics of railroad operations led to the line’s abandonment. The decommissioning in 2007 set the stage for the corridor’s transformation into the recreational trail we know today.
The Railroad Heritage: Central of Georgia Railway
The Man O’ War Trail follows the path of the Central of Georgia Railway, a railroad with deep roots in Georgia’s transportation history. The Central of Georgia Railway was chartered in 1833 and became one of the South’s most important railroad systems, connecting Savannah to Macon and eventually expanding throughout Georgia and into neighboring states.
The section of track that now forms the Man O’ War Trail was part of the Central of Georgia’s western expansion, connecting Atlanta to Columbus. This route served several purposes: it transported passengers between Georgia’s capital and its second city, carried freight (including cotton, textiles, and manufactured goods), and provided crucial transportation access to the resort communities and therapeutic springs in the Warm Springs and Pine Mountain area.
The railroad’s engineering legacy is visible throughout the trail. The gentle grades necessary for train operations make the trail accessible while providing enough elevation change to keep rides interesting. The railroad’s right-of-way carved through the low ridges of the Georgia Piedmont, creating a corridor that showcases the region’s natural beauty while following a route that minimizes steep grades.
The Central of Georgia Railway went through various mergers and changes over the decades. It became part of the Savannah and Atlanta Railway in 1895, operated under various names, and eventually was incorporated into the Southern Railway system and, later, Norfolk Southern. By the time the Columbus-Atlanta section was abandoned, it was no longer economically viable for freight operations, making it an ideal candidate for rail trail conversion.
The Trail Experience: What to Expect
Riding the Man O’ War Trail is an experience that combines excellent infrastructure with beautiful scenery and Southern hospitality. The trail’s character changes throughout its length, offering variety that keeps the ride engaging.
Elevation and Terrain
Its one-way distance of 13.5 miles and 500+ foot of elevation change makes this trail a favorite with the avid athlete looking to train and the casual cyclist alike. The elevation changes are gradual but noticeable—this is not a flat trail, and riders will definitely feel the climbs on the return journey.
User reviews consistently mention the elevation as a notable feature. One reviewer noted: “You will encounter more elevation change than you expect. We only clocked 230 feet of elevation gain on the way to Hamilton. We did 470 feet on the way back. It’s not steep just long and graded. If you’re a casual rider on a mountain bike like me you’ll use all your gears.”
This elevation profile makes the Man O’ War Trail particularly valuable for training. Cyclists preparing for events or simply looking to build fitness appreciate the steady climbs that challenge without overwhelming. At the same time, the grades remain gentle enough that most casual riders can complete the trail, though they should be prepared for a workout, especially on the return journey.
Scenery and Points of Interest
The trail passes through some of West Georgia’s most beautiful countryside. The trail is nicely shaded most of the way, and the paving is immaculate. This combination of shade and excellent surface quality makes for comfortable riding even on warm Georgia days.
The trail’s proximity to two major attractions—Callaway Gardens and FDR State Park—adds to its appeal. Callaway Gardens, one of Georgia’s premier botanical gardens and resorts, offers 2,500 acres of gardens, woodlands, and recreational facilities. Trail users can easily combine a ride on the Man O’ War Trail with a visit to Callaway Gardens’ famous azalea trails, butterfly center, or beach complex.
FDR State Park, Georgia’s largest state park with over 9,000 acres, provides extensive hiking trails, camping facilities, and connections to Pine Mountain’s history as a health resort. The park preserves the natural beauty that attracted Franklin D. Roosevelt to the area and made Warm Springs famous as a therapeutic destination.
As users travel south from Pine Mountain, the trail becomes progressively more rural and peaceful. It’s not crowded at all, particularly in the southern sections. This makes the Man O’ War Trail ideal for those seeking a more contemplative, nature-focused ride away from the busier trails closer to Atlanta.
The trail passes through the small communities of Pine Mountain and Hamilton, each offering unique character and hospitality. Pine Mountain, with its Victorian-era downtown, antique shops, and restaurants, provides an excellent starting point and destination. Hamilton, a traditional Georgia small town, offers its own charms and refreshment opportunities at the trail’s midpoint.
Amenities and Services
The Man O’ War Trail is well-equipped to serve users’ needs. Along the route, there are mile markers and six trailheads with parking. The abundance of trailheads means riders are never far from access points, making it easy to customize ride lengths or arrange shuttle pickups.
Benches are placed periodically along the trail, providing opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery. These rest areas are particularly appreciated on longer rides or during hot weather. The trail’s design includes thoughtful amenities that enhance the user experience without overdevelopment that would detract from the natural setting.
In terms of services, the northern sections of the trail offer the most options. Pine Mountain’s downtown is within easy reach of the trail and features multiple restaurants, cafes, shops, and the visitor center with restrooms. The Callaway Country Store, located at the mid-point trailhead, offers food and refreshments. Hamilton also provides dining options and services, though these are more limited than in Pine Mountain.
One reviewer specifically mentioned stopping at the Callaway Country Store for lunch, noting there is a nice paved path to take you from the trail up to the store. On the way back they stopped at Hamilton Ice Cream Company for some chocolate ice cream. These types of trail-side amenities add to the Man O’ War Trail’s appeal as a destination ride rather than just a training route.
User Experience and Reviews
The Man O’ War Trail has earned consistently positive reviews from users, who praise its maintenance, scenery, and overall quality. Trail users on AllTrails and TrailLink have given the trail high ratings and enthusiastic testimonials.
One user stated: “I love this trail, my imagination runs wild thinking about the history behind it. Very well maintained and freshly paved. I hope they continue to expand it.” This comment captures two important aspects of the trail experience: the excellent maintenance and the connection to railroad history that adds depth to the ride.
Another reviewer noted: “Named after the famous train that was also named after the greatest horse of all time. I love the history behind this trail. The trail follows the path of the retired diesel train. Well paved and maintained. Stop by the chamber of Commerce in Hamilton for souvenirs and free refreshments.” The mention of free refreshments at the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce highlights the exceptional hospitality that trail users encounter along the route.
The trail’s surface quality receives consistent praise. Reviewers highlight that the paving is immaculate, and another noted “Long straights of open asphalt being replaced with wide curvy smooth cement was refreshing. The trail is very well maintained and marked.”
Safety features also earn compliments. One user appreciated the “yellow center lines that keep traffic safe. The primary loop has long spaced center lines making it easy to know which path you want to take. Plenty of resting spots, and restroom facilities along the route.”
The relatively uncrowded nature of the trail is frequently mentioned as a positive feature. Unlike some trails closer to major metropolitan areas that can become congested on weekends, the Man O’ War Trail typically offers plenty of space for all users. As one reviewer noted, the trail is “not crowded at all”, making it ideal for those seeking a more peaceful outdoor experience.
Some practical considerations emerge from user reviews. Parking at the extreme northern end (Chipley) can be limited, so users are advised that “you can’t park at either end. You can find parking at Mile .5 in downtown Pine Mountain”. Additionally, bathroom facilities weren’t always open when early-morning riders arrived, so users should plan accordingly.
The elevation is notable enough that multiple reviewers mention it. While the grades are never steep, the cumulative elevation gain—particularly on the return journey—can surprise casual riders. However, this is generally viewed as a positive feature that adds challenge and interest to the ride.
Community Impact and Economic Benefits
The Man O’ War Trail has become an important community asset for Harris County, providing health and recreation benefits to residents while attracting visitors who support local businesses. The trail exemplifies how rail trail development can serve multiple purposes: promoting public health, preserving historical corridors, providing recreation, and driving economic activity.
For Pine Mountain, a town built on tourism, the trail has become another attraction that brings visitors to the area. Trail users often combine rides with visits to Callaway Gardens, FDR State Park, and Warm Springs, or with dining and shopping in Pine Mountain’s historic downtown. The trail has helped position Pine Mountain as a destination for active outdoor recreation, complementing its existing attractions.
Hamilton, a smaller and less tourism-focused community, has embraced the trail as well. The Chamber of Commerce actively engages with trail users, offering refreshments and information. Local businesses benefit from trail traffic, and the trail has helped put Hamilton on the map for cyclists throughout Georgia and beyond.
The trail also serves an important health and wellness function for local residents. It provides a safe, car-free environment for exercise and recreation close to home. Families use it for casual rides, runners train on its varied terrain, and community members walk for fitness and social connection. This type of infrastructure investment pays dividends in improved public health and quality of life.
Planning Your Visit
Whether you’re a serious cyclist looking for training miles or a family seeking a fun outdoor adventure, the Man O’ War Trail can accommodate your needs. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
Getting There
The Man O’ War Trail is located in Harris County in west-central Georgia, approximately 75 miles southwest of Atlanta and 30 miles north of Columbus. The trail is easily accessible from I-85 via State Route 18.
From I-85 North, take Georgia Exit 2. Turn right onto SR-18 towards Pine Mountain, West Point for 17 miles. Left onto SR-18 (an entrance to Callaway Gardens is on the right). Left onto Main St. / US-27 for a few hundred feet. Turn right at Broad St. or Chipley St. and park on Commerce St. or in the nearby commercial parking lots.
Choosing Your Route
The trail’s multiple trailheads allow you to customize your ride. Here are some popular options:
Full Trail Out-and-Back (27 miles): Start in downtown Pine Mountain and ride to Mulberry Creek and back. This challenging ride is perfect for serious cyclists and offers the full trail experience. Be prepared for significant elevation on the return journey.
Pine Mountain to Hamilton Round Trip (approximately 13-14 miles): A moderate ride that samples both the northern and middle sections of the trail, with opportunities for refreshments in Hamilton.
Callaway Country Store to Hamilton (approximately 6-8 miles): A shorter ride that’s ideal for families or those with limited time. This section offers good scenery and access to amenities.
One-Way with Shuttle: Ride the full trail one way and arrange for someone to pick you up, avoiding the return climb. Some local outfitters may offer shuttle services.
What to Bring
- Water: Bring more than you think you’ll need, especially in warm weather. While there are facilities at some trailheads, water availability is limited on the trail itself.
- Snacks/Energy Food: For longer rides, bring adequate nutrition.
- Repair Kit: Basic items including spare tube, tire levers, pump or CO2 cartridges, and a multi-tool.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen and a hat or visor, as some sections are exposed to full sun.
- Charged Phone: For navigation, emergencies, and photos.
- Cash: For purchases at the Callaway Country Store or restaurants in Pine Mountain and Hamilton.
Best Times to Visit
The Man O’ War Trail is rideable year-round, but some seasons are more pleasant than others:
Spring (March-May): Excellent temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and comfortable riding conditions. This is peak season for Callaway Gardens as well.
Fall (September-November): Arguably the best time to ride, with cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and beautiful autumn foliage. Ideal riding weather.
Summer (June-August): Can be hot and humid. Plan early morning or late afternoon rides to avoid the heat. The tree canopy provides shade on many sections.
Winter (December-February): Generally mild in Georgia, though occasional cold snaps occur. Winter riding is often pleasant on sunny days, with fewer trail users.
Nearby Attractions
Combining your trail ride with other area attractions makes for a perfect West Georgia getaway:
- Callaway Gardens: World-class botanical gardens with azalea trails, butterfly center, and beach complex
- FDR State Park: Georgia’s largest state park with hiking, camping, and historical significance
- Warm Springs: FDR’s Little White House and therapeutic springs
- Pine Mountain Downtown: Charming shops, restaurants, and historic architecture
- Providence Canyon State Park: Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” about 45 minutes southwest
The Man O’ War Trail in Context: Georgia’s Rail Trail Network
The Man O’ War Trail is part of Georgia’s growing rail trail network, which includes the famous Silver Comet Trail, Augusta’s Greeneway, and other converted railroad corridors. While it may not have the length or name recognition of the Silver Comet, the Man O’ War Trail offers its own distinctive character and advantages.
The trail’s 500+ feet of elevation change sets it apart from flatter trails like the Silver Comet, making it valuable for training while still remaining accessible. Its location near major attractions like Callaway Gardens and FDR State Park creates opportunities for multi-day visits that combine cycling with other activities. The trail’s relatively uncrowded conditions appeal to those seeking a more peaceful experience than busier trails can offer.
As Georgia continues to develop its statewide trail network, the Man O’ War Trail plays an important role in providing quality outdoor recreation in the western part of the state. The planned extension to Columbus/Muscogee County will significantly enhance the trail’s regional importance and could eventually lead to connections with other trail systems.
Conclusion: A Trail Worth Traveling
The Man O’ War Trail stands as a testament to what thoughtful rail trail development can achieve. By preserving a historic railroad corridor and transforming it into a recreational resource, Harris County has created an asset that serves multiple purposes: promoting health and fitness, preserving history, attracting tourism, and providing a safe, family-friendly environment for outdoor recreation.
The trail’s name honors both a legendary racehorse and the passenger train named in his honor, connecting today’s trail users to fascinating stories from America’s sporting and transportation past. Each pedal stroke along this paved path traces the route once traveled by the Man O’ War passenger train, carrying businesspeople, tourists, and locals between Columbus and Atlanta.
Whether you’re a serious cyclist seeking challenging training miles, a family looking for a safe and scenic place to ride, or a visitor exploring West Georgia’s attractions, the Man O’ War Trail delivers an experience that exceeds expectations. The combination of excellent maintenance, beautiful scenery, thoughtful amenities, and Southern hospitality creates a trail that invites return visits and word-of-mouth recommendations.
As the trail continues to expand toward Columbus, its significance will only grow. The Man O’ War Trail is positioned to become one of Georgia’s premier rail trails, offering experiences that rival better-known trails while maintaining the uncrowded, welcoming character that makes it special.
So pack your bike, fill your water bottles, and point your wheels toward Pine Mountain. The Man O’ War Trail awaits, ready to carry you through the beautiful hills of West Georgia on a journey that honors the past while celebrating the timeless joy of cycling through magnificent countryside. Whether you ride for the history, the scenery, the challenge, or simply the pleasure of pedaling through a perfect Georgia day, the Man O’ War Trail will not disappoint.
