Anyone that knew of Suwanee Creek and its surrounding wetlands before 1977 may have known it as “Black Creek”. The area was heavily polluted by the chemicals used in the leather tanning process by Buford’s Bona Allen Tannery. The Tannery operated along tributaries that all flow into the Chattahoochee River and for decades dumped waste into them. These chemicals killed off local wildlife and vegetation. Estimates for recovery of Suwanee Creek and its wetlands were 100 years.
It’s been over 30 years and the area has made a remarkable turnaround. Lush vegetation can be found in abundance as well as wildlife. Riding past the wetlands off of Buford Hwy, I have noticed photographers snapping shots of the birds that call Suwanee Creek home. Blue Heron, snowy egrets, hawks, and other birds of prey can be seen flying over the wetlands. One can also observe other wildlife like deer, rabbits, and other things you can hear but can’t see in the underbrush.
The City of Suwanee recognized the great potential in this otherwise unusable land that is prone to flooding. They turned it into green space for locals to enjoy. The Suwanee Greenway and Suwanee Creek Park were formed. The parklands encompass approximately 400 acres that span from George Pierce Park all the way to the city’s southern border along Buford Hwy.
My friend and I picked to start at the southern end at Suwanee Creek Park located at 1170 Buford Hwy. This part of the Greenway has plenty of parking, restrooms, two pavilions, picnic tables, and a unique 18 hole disc golf course. I know what you are thinking..disc golf? Think frisbee meets the rules of golf.
The Greenway was bustling with people all enjoying a bit of exercise and the scenery. They could be seen walking, jogging, running, biking, and moving along on scooters. The main trail is a combination of surfaces ranging from paved to raised boardwalks that take you over the wetlands. Along the way, you can see the wetlands which have a unique beauty all their own as well as Suwanee Creek itself and the surrounding woods. I happened to catch the sun setting through the trees and reflecting off the surface of the many pools of water. It was gorgeous and peaceful.
The trail is not lit so be prepared in case it gets dark on you before you reach your destination. Plan ahead. Next time I explore Suwanee Greenway with my friend, we will leave one car at George Pierce and one at Suwanee Creek Park. There are also several other access points along the Greenway with parking so you can customize your adventure.
My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed our explorations along the Greenway and plan on returning in the near future. I highly recommend this family-friendly public greenspace. For more information on Suwanee Creek Greenway and Park, visit www.Suwanee.com and click on Parks.
