Family Weekender: Atlanta

Best not to stray from the trail at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Comment On This Article

Add to My Favorites

Go Guide: Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Getting there: The park is just west of Marietta. The visitor center is on Stilesboro Road, just west of the junction with Old Highway 41.  

Contacts: Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, (770) 427-4686, or visit www.nps.gov/kemo.  

Extra treats: The park contains 16 miles of trails, some of which you'll have to share with horses.
 

Sometimes, it's the up-close and familiar that we most take for granted. For Atlantans, one overlooked treasure is nearby Kennesaw Mountain. For antsy kids looking to burn off some extra energy it's a great daytime getaway. For big excitement, start with the two-mile round-trip hike to the mountaintop. Watch for huge cannons and historic bunkers as you climb to a view that stretches all the way back to home.

For a more low-key walk, try the 1.2-mile environmental loop,"the easiest at the park" according to the rangers. Stop by the visitor center and they'll loan you a copy of the guide to the trail.