Atlanta weather is pleasant for walking most of the year, providing warm temperatures in spring and fall and cooler winter temperatures. Rainfall is not uncommon in the area due to its proximity to the coast. Summer months are less rainy but humid and hotter. Extreme temperatures coupled with humidity in the West Lake area create hazardous walking conditions for people and pets. Avoid walking at the hottest times of the day by taking your dog out early in the morning or later in the evening.
The West Lake neighborhood is comprised of housing complexes and single-family homes. Residences are modest in size with well-landscaped properties and lots of shade trees. The area is hilly and dog walkers and their pets will have to walk up some inclines in the neighborhood. Some residential roads do not have sidewalks and pedestrians need to share the road with local traffic. Keep your canine companion securely leashed and walk facing oncoming vehicles.
Mozley Park is located on the south border of West Lake and within easy walking distance, however, a train track on the north border of the park impedes walking. The tracks can be crossed on W Lake Avenue to access the park which has a swimming pool, tennis court, sports fields, and access to the Lionel Hampton Trail. The Lionel Hampton Trail is a 1.2-mile hard surfaced trail open to hikers and bikers. A parking lot provides access to the park and trail for out-of-neighborhood visitors.
The Lionel Hampton Trail extends to the west to the Anderson Park and Recreation Center. This large recreational and natural property has developed fields and facilities on its east side and natural wooded areas on the west. Sports fields and a swimming pool are available in the developed area and there are nature trails in the forested spots that provide shady walking spaces on hot summer days.