Stone Mountain is a bare granite dome east of Atlanta, inside Stone Mountain Park. You can ride a cable car or hike to the top, circle the base on a scenic railroad, and the park runs a nightly light show in season. The Confederate carving on its north face is the largest bas-relief in the world and its history is contested.
The Summit Skyride cable car or the 1.3-mile Walk-Up Trail both reach the bald top of the dome, with long views toward the Atlanta skyline.
The Scenic Railroad loops the mountain, and the park has a ropes course, a dinosaur trail, mini-golf and seasonal family attractions bundled into an add-on pass.
A projection and laser show, and in some seasons a drone show, plays on the mountain's face from the Memorial Lawn after dark.
Entry to the park is a per-vehicle parking fee, with an annual option. The rides and family attractions are covered by a separate Adventure Pass. Prices and show schedules change seasonally. Confirm on stonemountainpark.com.
You pay to park, then optionally buy the attractions pass. If you only want to hike the dome, the parking fee is all you need.
The Walk-Up Trail is steep near the top but short, and it costs nothing beyond parking. The cable car is the alternative in heat or with mobility limits.
The carving depicts Confederate leaders and there has been ongoing public debate about its future. Some visitors come for the geology and views and skip the Memorial Lawn.
How much does it cost to get in?
The park charges a daily parking fee per vehicle. Walking, hiking and picnicking are then free; the rides need the separate Adventure Pass.
Can I hike to the top?
Yes. The Walk-Up Trail is about 1.3 miles each way, moderate with a steep, exposed final stretch of bare rock.
When is the light show?
It runs on a seasonal schedule, most nights in summer and selected nights in spring and autumn. Check the official calendar.
How long should I plan?
Half a day for the summit and railroad, a full day if you add the attractions pass and stay for the evening show.
Stone Mountain is a quartz monzonite dome that rises about 825 feet above the surrounding land near Atlanta, Georgia. The surrounding Stone Mountain Park is owned by the state through the Stone Mountain Memorial Association and run day to day by a private operator.
The park includes the Summit Skyride, the Walk-Up Trail, the Scenic Railroad, a historic square and family attractions, plus a nightly seasonal light show. The Confederate Memorial Carving on the north face is the largest bas-relief sculpture in the world and is the subject of continuing public debate.
This page is an independent guide for visitors, covering the Stone Mountain Memorial Association and its park operator.
