Ocmulgee Heritage Trail tops 13 miles with Amerson River Park extension

The new 1,500-foot section runs through the Jay Hall North River access area and advances plans to connect Amerson River Park with downtown Macon.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The Ocmulgee Heritage Trail now stretches more than 13 miles following the opening of a new extension at Amerson River Park.

NewTown Macon and Macon-Bibb County celebrated the newest extension of the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail Thursday. The trail connects parks, neighborhoods and downtown Macon.

Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller says the extension creates continuous recreational paths, improves river access and serves as a vital link in the long-term plan to connect the park directly to downtown Macon and Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park.

“Can you hear that? Hear the birds, water running, when I think about that, that’s very relaxing,” he said. “At a time where we have such chaos going on in the world, in the United States, in Georgia, and sometimes Macon, it helps to kind of get away from it all, and to have a peace of mind.”

NewTown Macon President and CEO James Fritze says the extension will add another 1,500 feet to the trail, expanding access and creating more opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the area.

“We love this new addition, but more importantly we’re celebrating another step forward for the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail and for our community,” he said. “The Ocmulgee Heritage Trails have always been more than just a trail; it connects people to the river, to our history, to our neighborhoods and increasingly to one another.”

Congressman Sanford Bishop says the extension reconnects Macon with its rich history and preserves that legacy for future generations.

“It’s a gateway to healthy activities, providing over 13 miles for a wide range of recreational activities, picnicking, running, hiking, rolling blading, and biking,” he said. “This trail is also a connection to our past, and it reminds us of the rich cultural heritage of the area that dates back thousands and thousands of years.”

The new section runs through the Jay Hall North River access area.