Kennesaw Mountain Summit - Image 1
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Kennesaw Mountain Summit Overlook

4.9
·532 reviews·Marietta, United States

Experience breathtaking Atlanta views and Civil War history atop Kennesaw Mountain. Hike scenic trails or take a shuttle to the summit.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Kennesaw Mountain Summit - Image 1

Kennesaw Mountain Summit Overlook

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience breathtaking Atlanta views and Civil War history atop Kennesaw Mountain. Hike scenic trails or take a shuttle to the summit.

4.9
(532 reviews)

"The reward is when you get to the Summitt and the views of Atlanta. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be steep and varied. Good walking or hiking shoes are a must for a comfortable ascent.

🚗 Shuttle Option Available

Don't want to hike? A shuttle can take you to the summit for a small fee.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Atlanta Views

Panoramic Atlanta Views

Summit

Gaze at the sprawling Atlanta skyline from this breathtaking vantage point. A truly rewarding sight after your climb!

Historical Significance

Historical Significance

Throughout the trails

Walk in the footsteps of history along trails dotted with markers from the Civil War. Imagine the past as you explore.

Nature Trails & Wildlife

Nature Trails & Wildlife

Various trails

Enjoy a peaceful walk amidst nature, with opportunities to spot wildflowers and soaring birds. A refreshing escape.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Ascent

Beat the crowds and the heat by visiting Kennesaw Mountain Summit Overlook early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more peaceful experience. Consider the weather; clear days provide the best panoramic views of Atlanta.

Hiking vs. Driving to the Top

While hiking offers a rewarding experience with historical markers and nature trails, you can also drive or take a shuttle to a parking lot just 400 feet from the summit. This makes the stunning Atlanta views accessible to everyone, regardless of their hiking ability. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Popular time for locals
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Save this for your next hiking adventure in Atlanta! Since moving to Marietta, this spot has been a great go to for some forest bathing. It’s good for the soul. I highly recommend it. Kennesaw Mountain has been a long time visited spot for many locals, and it’s a great way to view Atlanta in a very unique way. I usually go during the late mornings or noon to avoid large crowds. But even during its...
@jr.enrile
20.8K likes • 234.3K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be steep and varied. Good walking or hiking shoes are a must for a comfortable ascent. Reddit

🚗 Shuttle Option Available

Don't want to hike? A shuttle can take you to the summit for a small fee. Reddit

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@monsterminigolfmarietta
16.5K likes • 156.8K views
New turkey club at my family’s restaurant #marietta #kennesaw #localbusiness
@thatpeachybee
13.8K likes • 199.6K views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially on warmer days, bring plenty of water for your hike. The climb can be strenuous.

📸 Capture the Views

The summit offers spectacular photo opportunities of the Atlanta skyline. Don't forget your camera!

House Tour: Basecamp at Kennesaw Mountain edition. 🏕️ #marietta #kennesaw #restaurant #localbusiness
@thatpeachybee
10.1K likes • 99.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be steep and varied. Good walking or hiking shoes are a must for a comfortable ascent. Reddit

🚗 Shuttle Option Available

Don't want to hike? A shuttle can take you to the summit for a small fee. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially on warmer days, bring plenty of water for your hike. The climb can be strenuous.

📸 Capture the Views

The summit offers spectacular photo opportunities of the Atlanta skyline. Don't forget your camera!

🌳 Enjoy the Scenery

Benches along the trails offer spots to rest and soak in the natural beauty. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(532 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Kennesaw Mountain for its spectacular panoramic views of Atlanta and its significant historical importance. The accessibility options, including hiking trails and a shuttle service, are highly appreciated, making it a rewarding experience for a wide range of visitors. Some find the trails challenging but ultimately worth the effort for the scenery and historical context.

"Very nice view , we went in Falls and the trek was really good. It was a nice an dlong trek , who loves trekking"

Pooja Bansal

"Had an awesome time hiking Kennesaw Summit via Little Kennesaw Mountain and the Brumby Camp Trail. It’s a 5-mile loop with amazing views, ton of history and a nice climb. Totally worth and not far from the city."

VJ

"You can hike here from differenti trails. If cant or dont want to hike you can park at the nearest park (400ft from the summit) and the view Is still pretty nice."

Xhesara Hasrami

What People Like

Spectacular Atlanta views
Rich Civil War history
Accessible summit options

What People Dislike

Can be crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the summit via several hiking trails or by driving to a parking lot near the top. The main road is accessible for driving during weekdays. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas available, including one close to the summit. During peak times, parking can fill up.

You can drive to a parking lot approximately 400 feet from the summit. The paved road itself is primarily for walking or driving during weekdays. Reddit

A shuttle bus service is available for a small fee, taking you directly to the summit area if you prefer not to make the climb. Reddit

While hiking trails vary in difficulty, there's a paved path and shuttle service to ensure most visitors can enjoy the summit views. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park generally does not charge an entrance fee for general access. However, specific programs or events might have associated costs.

The park is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for the most current hours.

No, advance booking is not usually required for general park access. You can visit anytime during operating hours.

Standard park rules apply, such as staying on marked trails and respecting historical sites. Check the park's official guidelines for any specific restrictions.

The shuttle service to the summit typically costs around $3 for adults and $1.50 for children. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attractions are the panoramic views of Atlanta, exploring historical markers from the Civil War, and enjoying nature on the various trails. Reddit

The time to reach the summit varies depending on the trail chosen and your hiking pace. A moderate hike can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours round trip.

Restroom facilities are available at the visitor center and at various points within the park, including near the summit parking area.

Yes, families can enjoy the accessible trails, historical insights, and the rewarding views. The shuttle option makes it suitable for all ages. Reddit

Visitors might spot various birds, small mammals, and wildflowers, especially during spring and summer. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the Atlanta skyline and the natural landscape. Reddit

The summit itself provides the most iconic views. Also, look for scenic overlooks along the hiking trails and historical markers for unique shots.

Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks and Battlefields to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the park's official regulations.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light photography.

While official photography tours might not be common, the park's beauty is easily captured by visitors. Consider visiting during less crowded times for unobstructed shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kennesaw Mountain is a fantastic destination for families. The shuttle service makes reaching the summit accessible for all ages, ensuring everyone can enjoy the spectacular views of Atlanta. Reddit The historical markers along the trails offer a unique learning opportunity, bringing history to life for children in an engaging outdoor setting. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider a picnic to make a day of it. The nature trails also provide a chance for kids to explore and connect with the outdoors.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike, Kennesaw Mountain offers rewarding trails with varying difficulty levels. The 5-mile loop combining Little Kennesaw Mountain and Brumby Camp Trail is a popular choice for a more challenging trek. Reddit You'll find benches along the way to rest and enjoy the scenery, and the wildflowers and bird-watching opportunities add to the natural appeal. Reddit Remember to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring ample water for your adventure.

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Kennesaw Mountain a dream location, especially during golden hour for stunning skyline shots of Atlanta. The summit offers panoramic vistas, while the historical markers and natural landscapes provide diverse subjects. Reddit Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the expansive views and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife sightings. Visiting during weekday mornings can offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Trails and Routes

Kennesaw Mountain offers a variety of hiking trails catering to different fitness levels. The most popular route to the summit is via the main trail, which is moderately strenuous and takes about 1-2 hours round trip. Along the way, you'll encounter historical markers and benches for resting. Reddit For a longer loop, consider combining the Little Kennesaw Mountain and Brumby Camp trails for a 5-mile adventure with significant historical context and a good climb. Reddit The park also features paved paths and nature trails, ensuring there's an option for everyone to experience the mountain's beauty and history. Reddit

Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be steep and uneven. Reddit The trails are generally well-maintained, and you'll often find other visitors, making it feel safe even when hiking solo. Reddit The diverse terrain provides a good workout while immersing you in the natural surroundings. Reddit

Historical Significance of Kennesaw Mountain

Kennesaw Mountain is a pivotal site in American history, most notably for its role in the Civil War's Atlanta Campaign. The mountain served as a strategic stronghold for Confederate forces, and the surrounding area was the scene of intense fighting, including the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain in June 1864. Visitors can explore remnants of earthworks, trenches, and artillery positions that bear testament to the conflict. Reddit

Walking the trails allows you to connect with this history in a tangible way. Interpretive signs and markers along the paths provide context about the battles and the soldiers who fought here. Reddit The summit itself offers not only stunning views but also a vantage point from which military leaders would have surveyed the landscape. It's a place where natural beauty meets profound historical importance, offering a unique educational experience for all visitors. Reddit

Accessibility and Alternative Ways to Experience the Summit

Understanding that not everyone can or wants to undertake a strenuous hike, Kennesaw Mountain provides accessible options to enjoy its summit views. For those who prefer not to hike, a shuttle service operates, transporting visitors from a nearby parking area directly to the summit for a nominal fee. Reddit This ensures that the breathtaking panoramic views of Atlanta are available to a wider audience, including families with young children, seniors, or individuals with mobility challenges. Reddit

Even if you choose not to use the shuttle, parking is available just 400 feet from the summit, allowing for a very short, easy walk to the overlook. Reddit This proximity means you can still experience the reward of the expansive vistas without a significant physical exertion. The park's design thoughtfully balances the adventurous spirit of hiking with the desire for accessible scenic enjoyment, making Kennesaw Mountain a destination for many. Reddit

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