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.

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 Civil War’s Atlanta Campaign.

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; tables and a few small grills are available.

Of course, no visit is complete without a trip up to the top of Kennesaw Mountain. The visitor center is a good place to stop just before heading up the mountain. The visitor center features a film about the Atlanta Campaign and the Battle of Kennesaw, a newly expanded museum, and of course a gift shop. The mountain is 1808 feet above sea level, and the incline from the Visitor Center to the mountain’s summit is approximately 700 vertical feet.

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 paved road to the top. Both the trail and the road start just behind the visitor Center. 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, shuttle service is available. When you get to the top, your efforts will be rewarded by an unparalleled view.

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

If driving a personal vehicle, there is a $5 fee per vehicle to enter Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. If walking, there is a $5 fee per person ages 16 and up. 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. Periodic shuttle service to the top is also available. A separate, shorter and slightly steeper walking trail up and down the mountain is also available. Bikes are permitted on open, paved roads during certain hours 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.

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 some brochures, enjoy the museum, watch an orientation film, and more.

Admission:
$5/day per vehicle or $5/day per person if walking. An annual park pass is $40/year. America the Beautiful Passes are also accepted.

Hours:
Kennesaw Mountain is a day use battlefield park, which means it is open “from dawn to dusk.”

Visitor Center building: (directions)
9 am to 5 pm

Visitor Center lot and battlefield grounds: (directions)

6:30 am to 6:30 pm – Standard Time (November to March)

6:30 am to 8:30 pm – Daylight Saving Time (March to November)

Visitor Center Parking: (directions)

6:30 am to 6:00 pm – Standard Time (November to March)
*Entrance to lot closes at 5:30 pm

6:30 am to 8:00 pm – Daylight Saving Time (March to November)
*Entrance to this lot closes at 7:30 pm

Old 41 Overflow Lot: (directions)

6:30 am to 6:30 pm – Standard Time (November to March)

6:30 am to 8:30 pm – Daylight Saving Time (March to November)