Located just outside Atlanta, Georgia, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history. This park is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of both the Union and Confederate armies during the Civil War. It is a place to learn about the lives of those who fought here and to explore the beautiful landscape that has been preserved since the war ended. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, what makes it special, and what you can expect to see when you visit.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park was established in 1935 to commemorate one of the most significant battles of the Civil War – the Atlanta Campaign of 1864. This was a series of battles fought between the Union and Confederate armies in an effort to capture Atlanta, which was a major transportation hub for the Confederacy. The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, fought on June 27, 1864, was the bloodiest of all the battles in the campaign, with over 3,000 casualties. The Confederate army, led by General Joseph E. Johnston, succeeded in holding off the Union army, led by General William T. Sherman, but eventually had to retreat to Atlanta, which was then captured by Sherman’s army on September 2, 1864. Today, visitors to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park can learn about the battle and the Atlanta Campaign at the Visitor Center and explore the battlefield through the park’s many hiking trails.
The park covers over 2,900 acres and features a network of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The most popular trail is the 2.1-mile Kennesaw Mountain Trail, which takes visitors to the summit of Kennesaw Mountain and provides panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline. Other popular trails include the 5-mile Cheatham Hill Trail and the 3.4-mile Pigeon Hill Trail. The park also has several picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a great destination for families. And if you’re a history buff, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the park’s historical sites, which include original earthworks, cannon emplacements, and infantry trenches.
Throughout the year, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park hosts a variety of special events that are fun for the whole family. One popular event is the Annual Summer Civil War Artillery Demonstrations, which take place on the last Saturday of every month from June through August. During these demonstrations, visitors can watch as park rangers fire Civil War-era cannon and learn about the role of artillery in the war. Other events include ranger-led hikes and talks, Junior Ranger Day, and the Annual Battle of Kolb’s Farm Reenactment.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free. The Visitor Center is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm during the summer months. If you’re planning on hiking, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and watch for wildlife like deer, snakes, and birds of prey. And if you’re visiting during the summer months, be aware that temperatures can get very hot, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a place of great historical significance and natural beauty. Whether you’re a Civil War buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a fun and educational day trip, this park has something for everyone. So come visit this hidden gem just outside Atlanta, and explore the rich history and natural beauty that is Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.
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