by Located just minutes from downtown Atlanta in the city of Kennesaw, Georgia. The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park offers visitors miles of lush covered trails in the heart of the suburbs. The longest trail in the park is the Green Loop which comes in at around 16.6 miles. Only doubling back on itself for less than a mile, it’s hard to find a better trail run in such a congested area. The year around lush trees block the city houses and sounds allowing you to feel miles away from everyone. When in reality you’re never that far from someone’s backyard.
Key Takeaways:
- Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park in Georgia offers a scenic 16.6-mile Green Loop trail near Atlanta.
- The trail provides a sense of seclusion despite its suburban location, thanks to lush trees and minimal city noise.
- The trail features three water fountains, good trail markings, and $5 parking (online/app), with an overflow lot available.
- Expect crowded front-side trails but a quieter, more remote experience on the back side.
- The trail includes a climb over Kennesaw Mountain and transitions to rolling hills with some creek-side climbs.
Kennesaw Mountain Trail Running – The Full 16 mile Green Loop – Atlanta, Georgia
Trail Info
Length: 16+ Miles
Type: Loop
Elevation Gain: 2,800ft+
AllTrails Link: All Trails Link Click Here
Description: This is the full loop of Kennesaw Mountain. Starting with a climb up and over the mountain the trail then turns to rolling hills with plenty of tree cover except for a few beautiful (and hot) open meadows. On the return the trail goes around the mountain vs back up and over.
Hiking Kennesaw Mountain Big Loop – Tips & Info
- There are three water fountains on the loop. One at the beginning, one at mile 6 (you will see this again at mile 12ish) and at around mile 8.5. This allows you to carry less water.
- The trail is incredibly well marked with markers every 0.5 miles or so.
- Parking is $5 only by app/online. And there is an overflow lot roughly .4 miles away from the start of the Green Loop at the visitor center. So this will add a mile or so to your trip if you have to park there.
- The front side of Kennesaw Mountain and the start of the loop gets very busy. The back side feels much more remote. With much fewer people and some great runnable trails.
- The start up the loop will send you up and over Kennesaw Mountain. Once over the mountain the trail becomes rolling hills with a couple little climbs near the creak at Burnt Hickory.
Conclusion
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park’s Green Loop trail, just minutes from downtown Atlanta, offers a remarkable escape into nature within a suburban setting. With its scenic 16.6-mile loop, lush surroundings, and thoughtful amenities like water fountains and clear trail markings, it’s an excellent option for trail runners and hikers. While the front side can be crowded, the back side provides a more peaceful, remote experience. Don’t miss the chance to traverse Kennesaw Mountain, enjoy rolling hills, and appreciate the beauty of Burnt Hickory Creek. This hidden gem is a testament to the natural beauty nestled in the heart of Georgia’s suburbs.
FAQs
What is Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park?
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a 2,965-acre historic site located in northwestern Georgia, USA. It preserves and commemorates a significant Civil War battlefield where the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain took place in 1864.
When did the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain occur?
The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain occurred from June 27 to July 2, 1864, during the American Civil War. It was a major engagement in the Atlanta Campaign, which was led by Union General William T. Sherman against Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston.
What can visitors do at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park?
Visitors to the park can explore a variety of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and touring the historic battlefields and monuments. There are over 17 miles of interpretive hiking trails, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and learning about the history of the area.
Are there any visitor centers or museums at the park?
Yes, the park features the Kennesaw Mountain Visitor Center, which provides valuable information, exhibits, and displays about the Civil War battle, the soldiers who fought there, and the history of the area. It’s a great starting point for your visit.
Is there an admission fee to visit Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park?
No, the park is free to enter, and there are no admission fees. This makes it an accessible and educational destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers. But there is a $5 parking permit cost to park in the parks lots.
