Standing Boy Trails

Standing Boy Trails is a 1,580-acre natural area located in north Columbus, Georgia, on the shore of Lake Oliver. The property, formerly part of the Standing Boy Creek Wildlife Management Area, has been transformed into a multi-use trail system offering opportunities for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking.

The trail system consists of nearly 30 miles of natural surface trails designed to provide a wide range of experiences for users of different skill levels. The trails were constructed with over two million dollars in private donations and thousands of volunteer hours, emphasizing the community's commitment to outdoor recreation.

Standing Boy Trails features a variety of terrain, including rolling hills and scenic landscapes. The trail design incorporates the property's natural features, particularly its rock content, which has been integrated into the trails in challenging and interesting ways. While large berms and dirt sculpting have been minimized due to soil composition, the trails offer a mix of experiences from relatively smooth "walking path" style trails to more technical, hand-built single-track.

The park is managed by Standing Boy, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to maintaining and preserving the property. Access to the trails requires a parking pass, with the fees going directly towards trail maintenance and management. The trail system is not divided into separate loops, allowing users the freedom to create their own routes and fostering a sense of adventure.

For hikers and runners, there are dedicated hiking-only trails that offer a more remote and peaceful experience with fewer intersections and road crossings. Mountain bikers can enjoy a range of trails from beginner-friendly green trails to more challenging blue and black-rated trails, including some with features like jumps and technical rock sections.

Wildlife viewing is also a notable activity at Standing Boy Trails, as the area supports populations of white-tailed deer, turkey, and various bird species. The property's location on Lake Oliver also provides opportunities for water-based activities, though these are not the primary focus of the trail system.