Cochran Mill Park

After a few scrolls on All Trails I stumbled upon Cochran Mill Green Loop. Cochran Mill Green Loop was easy to find as it sits right off the main roadway. The parking is ample (and paid) and has space for horse trailer parking as well. As I arrived at the main area I took a moment to review the board. The board educated me that there were multiple trail options. Also, the routes vary by skill level and miles. I was so excited. As today was my non-gym day I decided to go for the Yellow Trail as it is Moderate in effort and is 3-4 miles. I was slightly confused at first, however, there was an entry to the trail towards the back of the parking area. Once I found it, it was all go from there. LoL! The trail was easy to follow as the path is easily identifiable. The woods are quiet and personal. There was a sense of peace as I was walking through the woods. The different levels of elevation provide for an enhanced view of the general area. I’m talking absolutely gorgeous. The spots of water provide a moment of serenity as you get lost in the sounds of water going down the stream. The path was fun as it was up, down, and all around. I had a blast. Truly, a blast. As I was getting to the end I got lost. lol. Thanks to All Trails for tracing my route as I was able to retrace my steps. Next time I’ll pay better attention to where I parked so I can know where to go back to. Ha!! Today was amazing. Great air. Great trail. Great time.

Tips for families with kids You only need to walk 2-3 minutes down the orange trail (across the parking lot) to get to the first falls and water at the bottom of the falls that is perfect for swimming and playing- probably 4-5 ft deep in the middle. If you want to check out the natural waterslides in this post, head down the Orange trail (about 5-7 min walking), then after the second bridge (where you can easily play in the river under the bridge) you take a right onto the green trail. About 3-4 minutes after that you will come to an opening with the perfect area for kids sliding into the falls. My kids spent 2 hrs just in that spot. We took the orange and green trails as well to see some of the ruins and other waterfalls. I imagine you technically could slide down the ruins into a big water area, but it looked a bit too fast and long to be safe for kids. I agree with previous reviews, the signs are a little hard to follow throughout the trails, but it is a beautiful park and I only saw half of it! Nice playground and restrooms as well. Definitely will be back!

Many pathways/opportunities to see flowing water, be it the creek or a little waterfall. Multiple, color-coded, trails or pathways to choose from. You'll hear the birds, see some aquatic organisms, observe the various insects. There's a nice playground for the young ones, along with actual restrooms (not port-a-potties). Popular park for mountain biking or roadside cycling. Downside, though: you have to pay to park ($5). The park ranger is active.

Easy, short walk to the 1st waterfall with grassy, shaded areas to blanket or picnic. Shallow pond at waterfall base is perfect for younger swimmers or ones with adult. A short hike further is a part of the river that's great for the older kids to slide down the rocks (like a natural water slide... be careful! Lol)

A fairly busy park with beautiful waterfalls and easy to moderate, color-coded trails. The main waterfall is only a 5 minute walk from the parking lot. With only a small piece of the original mill remaining, you can climb the rocks and enjoy the water. Farther down the trail is an overlook for another smaller waterfall with access by the green or orange trail. Beautiful photo-ops too. I saw one picnic table near the main waterfall. There is a $5 parking fee, park opens at sunrise and closes at sunset.

Peaceful park to roam around and hike or walk. I hiked for around 4 miles. Clean and quiet. $5 for parking and the park is free. All day.

This is a beautiful park! Perfect for kids and family picnics. The hiking trails are CLEARLY labeled by colors and it has amazing views along the way..⛰️🥾

Walking in Cochran Mill Park was a great way to spend a peaceful Sunday afternoon and enjoy the beautiful weather. I've attached some photos and a video. In my mind, the best way to experience this park is in person. There are numerous trails through the park of varying length and difficulty. The waterfall alone is worth the visit. Go and enjoy this slice of nature for yourself, just a short drive from the city.