Dog walkers in Atlanta need to contend with weather that is hot and humid in summer and cool and wet in the winter. When extreme heat and humidity occurs, avoid walking at the height of the day and opt for early morning or later in the evening when it is cooler. Although winter temperatures are usually above freezing, they can be chilly and rainy. Snow is rare, but when it does occur, it can make walkways slippery, so exercise caution. Spring and fall are more pleasant for walking, although occasional rain showers do occur.
The creek to the north and river to the west also prevent on foot travel in those directions, although they provide beautiful green spaces. The Ridgewood Heights neighborhood itself is heavily treed with lots of landscaping on large suburban properties. Surroundings are natural and there is plenty of shade in the area on summer days.
Residential streets do not have sidewalks and pedestrians and their pets need to share the road with local traffic. Walk facing oncoming vehicles, keep your dog leashed, and use caution. The terrain is somewhat hilly and there are slopes to climb when walking about the area.
The Ridgewood Heights neighborhood is very much like a greenway with large country properties that are naturally landscaped and lots of natural areas between properties. There is also a large natural area between the industrial and residential areas and the Chattahoochee River. This greenway is dense with trees and is sometimes referred to as Standing Peachtree Park. There is a dirt trail that takes travelers to the Chattahoochee River. The greenway is a great shady spot for a walk with your dog, but remember that dirt and natural trails in this area have varied terrain that can be compromised depending on the weather.
A little way to the south, Ridgewood Heights residents can reach the Sarah J. Gonzalez Memorial Park. This park is accessible for people and pets of all ability levels and has a playground and children's soccer field. This small neighborhood park is well treed and a great place to escape the heat on a summer day.