Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

From June 19 until July 2, 1864, 160,000 Union and Confederate soldiers fought on the land that now forms Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston and his troops temporarily halted Union General William T. Sherman’s advance toward Atlanta here during that hot summer. Over 5,350 soldiers lost their lives in the battle.  Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield was designated as a National Battlefield on February 8, 1917, Cheatham Hill was added on August 10, 1933.

Even if you aren’t a history buff, Kennesaw Mountain is well worth a visit. Not only is the park a great place for biking (on open, paved roadways), running or hiking the more than 18 miles of interpretive trails, it also is dog-friendly (on a leash no more than 6 ft.). Enjoy a picnic in the designated areas; a few small grills are even available.

Today, the 2,923-acre park includes three battlefield areas: In front of the Visitor Center, off Burnt Hickory Road and the main site is located at Cheatham Hill. Eleven miles of earthworks are preserved within the park, which is the only National Park Service property that commemorates the Atlanta Campaign.

Of course, no visit is complete without a trip up Kennesaw Mountain. The Visitor Center — with an 18-minute film about the Atlanta Campaign and the Battle of Kennesaw, an expanded museum and a shop – is a good place to stop before heading up the mountain. The mountain is 1808 feet above sea level, and the incline from the Visitor Center to the mountain’s summit is approximately 700 feet. Just imagine the battle taking place here!

There are two options for those who wish to hike to the top of the mountain. Visitors can hike the trail to the top, or walk the two-lane paved road to the top. The walk up is approximately 1.4 miles on the road and 1.2 mile up if you hike the trail. If walking is not an option, you may drive your car* to the mountaintop on weekdays. On the weekends, the road is closed to private vehicles but shuttle service is available.  Your efforts will be rewarded by an unparalleled view once you reach the top.

* Beginning in October of 2025, cars will no longer be allowed to drive on the road to the top of the mountain.

Interpretive programs such as guided hikes and walks, talks, demonstrations, and “living history” events are offered throughout the year.

While there’s no fee enter Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, there is a $5 fee per vehicle for parking. The shuttle bus to the top of the mountain is free.

Kennesaw Mountain Drive
Kennesaw Mountain Drive is located in Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and is one of several ways to get to the top of the mountain.  The road is open to walkers and hikers every day.  Monday through Friday, the road is also open to bicycles and private vehicles and there is a parking lot at the top of the mountain.  Visitors can drive to the top and hike one of the many trails or simply take in the amazing views.  On Saturdays and Sundays, the road is closed to bicycles and private vehicles and visitors have the option to ride a shuttle bus or walk the road to the top.  A separate, shorter and steeper walking trail up and down the mountain is also available.  Bikes are permitted on open, paved roads but are not permitted on the trails.

There are no dining options inside the park (other than picnic spots if you bring your own food), however if you are looking for nearby lunch or dinner options, the park is located just minutes from the numerous restaurants in the historic Marietta Square, in downtown Kennesaw, and along Barrett Parkway near the Town Center at Cobb shopping mall. There are also no lodging options in the park, so consider the nearby Barrett Parkway area for hotels in Kennesaw.

Located in Kennesaw, just west of Marietta, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is accessible from I-75 and the Barrett Parkway. Follow the brown signs marking the way to the park. There are multiple parking lots spread throughout the park, so consider starting your visit at the Visitor Center. There you can speak with park rangers, pick up a driving tour brochure, enjoy the museum, watch an orientation film, and more.

Admission:
Free

Parking:
$5/day or $40/year for an annual park pass. America the Beautiful Passes are also accepted.

Hours:

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr.
Kennesaw, GA 30152
(770) 427-4686

For more information, please call the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park visitor center at  (770) 427-4686.