Easy hikes and walks around Kennesaw State University
4.7
(71)
979
hikers
32
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Kennesaw State University are primarily found within the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and along the Noonday Creek Trail. The region features varied terrain, including rolling, rocky forests, open meadows, and shady woodlands with meandering creeks. Kennesaw Mountain and Little Kennesaw Mountain offer elevation, while the Noonday Creek Trail provides a paved, easy-grade path alongside the creek. The area also incorporates historical elements from the Civil War, such as fortifications and interpretive signs.
Best easy hiking trails around Kennesaw State University
- The most popular easy hiking route is Kennesaw Mountain Trail, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 10 minutes to complete, offering a climb with historical context.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Pigeon Hill and Little Kennesaw Trail, an easy 3.1 miles (4.9 km) path. This route explores varied terrain, including forested sections and views from Little Kennesaw Mountain.
- Local hikers also love the Noonday Creek Trail, a 1.9 miles (3.1 km) trail leading through a scenic creekside environment, often completed in about 47 minutes.
- Hiking around Kennesaw State University is defined by mountain summits, historical battlefields, and creekside paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Kennesaw State University are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 900 hikers have used komoot to explore Kennesaw State University's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
5.0
(5)
119
hikers
3.83km
01:10
80m
230m
Embark on an easy hike along the Kennesaw Mountain Trail, a 2.4-mile (3.8 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. You will gain 263 feet (80 metres) in elevation as you ascend through a lush deciduous forest. The path features rocky and steeply pitched sections, with tree roots and large rocks underfoot, so watch your footing. Reaching the rocky, open peak of Kennesaw Mountain rewards you with panoramic views, where you can spot the Atlanta skyline and Stone Mountain in the distance. Along the way, you will also encounter historical landmarks like the Dueling Cannons, adding a unique character to your journey.
To begin your hike, head to the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park Visitor Center, which serves as an excellent starting point. Here, you can find facilities and gather any information you might need before setting out. Parking is typically available at the base of the mountain, making access straightforward for most visitors. Consider an early start to avoid crowds, especially on weekends, as this is a popular destination.
This trail is situated within Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, a site rich in American Civil War history. Beyond the main summit route, the park offers an extensive network of over 20 miles of trails, providing diverse options for hikers of all levels. Exploring these additional paths allows you to delve deeper into the park's natural beauty and historical significance.
5
hikers
4.92km
01:35
200m
230m
Embark on an easy hike along the Pigeon Hill and Little Kennesaw Trail, a 3.1-mile (4.9 km) route that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You will gain 665 feet (203 metres) in elevation, taking approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes to complete. As you hike through forested areas, you will find scenic vistas and lookout points, especially from Little Kennesaw Mountain Summit, providing great opportunities to pause and take in the views.
To begin your adventure, you can park at the Pigeon Hill Parking Lot located on Burnt Hickory Road. Be aware that a fee is required to use the park's parking facilities, so plan accordingly before your visit. This ensures you have a smooth start to your exploration of the area.
This trail is a fantastic way to experience Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, connecting you directly to its rich Civil War history. Along the route, you will encounter historical elements such as Confederate earthworks and artillery placements. It offers a unique opportunity to combine outdoor activity with a meaningful glimpse into the past.
Sign up for free
4
hikers
1.76km
00:27
10m
10m
Swift Cantrell Park offers an easy hike across 1.1 miles (1.8 km) of paved asphalt trails. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of just 24 feet (7 metres), making it a perfect route for a quick outing. Expect to spend around 27 minutes enjoying the ample green spaces and beautiful trees that line the path, providing a refreshing atmosphere for your stroll.
Planning your visit to Swift Cantrell Park is straightforward, as the route is designed with accessibility in mind. The paved and lighted trails are suitable for all visitors, ensuring a comfortable experience. Parking is readily available, allowing easy access to the park's many amenities.
Beyond the pleasant walking path, Swift Cantrell Park stands out for its family-friendly features. You can find playgrounds and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a day out. The park also includes the Frank Boone Dog Park, a notable amenity for pet owners in the area.
3
hikers
3.08km
00:47
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Noonday Creek Trail, a pleasant 1.9-mile (3.1 km) route that takes approximately 47 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle 40 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain as you follow the creek, often under a canopy of mixed hardwoods and pines. The path offers a mix of secluded, wooded sections and boardwalks over wetlands, providing a refreshing escape.
This popular multi-use path means you will share the route with joggers and cyclists, so be mindful of others. Parking is conveniently available at several trailheads, some of which also provide restrooms. While generally easy, certain sections can become muddy after rainfall, so it is wise to wear appropriate footwear for your hike.
The Noonday Creek Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility, making it a notable green corridor within the region. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species, particularly around the wetland boardwalks. This trail provides a valuable opportunity to connect with nature close to urban areas.
4.76km
01:15
20m
70m
The Kennesaw Trail System offers an easy hiking experience, covering 3.0 miles (4.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 81 feet (25 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it ideal for a quick outdoor escape. As you hike, you will find a pleasant mix of shady forests and open meadows, with opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer. While this specific route is easy, the broader park provides diverse terrain and, from higher points, you might even catch glimpses of the Atlanta skyline.
To plan your visit, head to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, located just north of Atlanta. General parking is readily available at the Visitor Center, providing convenient access to the trailheads. You will find this route straightforward to access, as there are no specific warnings about road closures or permits required for your hike. This makes it an accessible option for a spontaneous outing.
This trail system is nestled within a site rich in historical significance, offering more than just natural beauty. The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park itself played a crucial role in American history, adding a layer of context to your outdoor adventure. The park's diverse landscape, from its lower trails to its higher elevations, provides a unique blend of ecological and historical interest for visitors.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
WE SLEEP HERE IN OBEDIENCE TO THE LAW: WHEN DUTY CALLED, WE CAME; WHEN THE LAND CALLED, WE DIED.
0
0
The entrance fee to the national park is $5 (annual pass €40) and can be paid via app.
0
0
It’s easy to lose the path; sections are very poorly marked or not marked at all.
0
0
At the Visitor Center of the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park you can learn about the history of the former Civil War battlefield. Inside the visitor center there is a permanent exhibition, and around the center various information boards provide information about the events of 1864.
1
0
The museum is very well-kept and an excellent stopping point before the metropolis.
0
0
This park commemorates a Civil War battlefield, where Union and Confederate forces fought from mid-June to early July in 1864. The park visitor center has daily screenings of a movie that dramatically reenacts the history of this area, and there's a short, paved multi-use trail that you can ride at any time. Bikes are also allowed on Kennesaw Mountain Road, but only Monday - Friday during the week.
0
0
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a 2,965 acre National Battlefield that preserves a Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign. Opposing forces maneuvered and fought here from June 19, 1864 until July 2, 1864. The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain was one of the more significant clashes of the Atlanta Campaign. With 'one last mountain' standing between William Sherman and Atlanta, the stakes are incredibly high. The Visitor Center of the State Park has tons of information presenting the history of the Civil War and the Atlanta Campaign in particular. A movie visualizes the bloody fights at Kennesaw Mountain back in 1864. https://www.nps.gov/kemo/index.htm
3
0
In June 1864, Confederate troops under General Johnston positioned themselves around Kennesaw Mountain (543 meters) to defend Atlanta. The steep slopes along this lonely and ancient ridge were practically impregnable. Union troops under General Sherman attempted a frontal attack a little further south, on the lower slopes of Pigeon Hill (378 meters) and Cheatham Hill (342 meters), but failed with heavy losses. Despite this tactical victory, the Graycoats withdrew a few days later with the aim of building a stronger defensive line along the Chattahoochee River. This plan did not work and the city of Atlanta was lost to the South a few weeks later. At the summit of Kennesaw Mountain, several Confederate artillery cannons stand as a memorial and various information boards explain the events of June 1864. You can also see the skyline and Atlanta Downtown and Midtown in the distance.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Kennesaw State University?
There are 16 easy hiking trails around Kennesaw State University, forming part of a larger network of 27 routes. These trails are primarily located within Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and along the Noonday Creek Trail.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes near Kennesaw State University?
The easy hiking trails offer varied terrain, including rolling, rocky forests, open meadows, and shady woodlands with meandering creeks. While some routes like the Kennesaw Mountain Trail provide a gentle climb, others like the Noonday Creek Trail are paved and relatively flat, following the creek.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Kennesaw State University?
The trails around Kennesaw State University are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the combination of natural beauty and historical significance, as well as the well-maintained paths.
Are there any easy loop trails in the area?
Yes, there are several easy loop options. For instance, the Kennesaw Trail System offers a 4.7 km loop that takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to complete, providing an accessible way to explore the local woodlands.
Are the easy trails suitable for families with children?
Many easy trails are suitable for families. The Noonday Creek Trail is a particularly good option, being a paved, multi-use path that runs alongside the creek, making it ideal for strollers and younger children. Shorter, less strenuous sections within Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park are also family-friendly.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Dogs are generally permitted on trails within Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, provided they are on a leash. The Pigeon Hill and Little Kennesaw Trail is a popular choice for dog walkers, offering varied terrain through forested sections.
What historical sites can I see on easy hikes?
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is rich in Civil War history. On easy hikes, you can encounter historical elements such as cannons, earthen fortifications, and interpretive signs. Specific sites like Confederate Four Gun Artillery Battery and Pigeon Hill are accessible via various trails, offering a glimpse into the 1864 Atlanta Campaign.
Are there any trails with good views?
Yes, even on easy trails, you can find rewarding views. The Kennesaw Mountain Trail offers a climb with historical context and leads to areas with scenic overlooks. For panoramic views, consider the summit of Kennesaw Mountain, which can be reached via trails of varying difficulty, including easier sections.
What is the best time of year to hike around Kennesaw State University?
Spring and autumn are generally the best times for hiking around Kennesaw State University. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery is vibrant with spring blooms or autumn foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are typically mild but can have occasional cold snaps.
Is there parking available for easy hiking trails?
Yes, parking is available at key access points for the trails. For Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, there is a visitor center with parking facilities. The Noonday Creek Trail also has designated parking areas along its route.
Are there any beginner-friendly trails that are relatively short?
Absolutely. The Swift Cantrell Park trail is a short, easy option at 1.7 km, taking only about 27 minutes to complete. The Noonday Creek Trail also offers shorter, accessible sections perfect for beginners.
Do I need a permit to hike Kennesaw Mountain?
No, a specific hiking permit is not generally required for day hikes within Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. However, there may be a parking fee at the visitor center. For detailed information on park regulations and any potential fees, it's best to check the official National Park Service website: nps.gov/kemo.
Most popular routes around Kennesaw State University
Most popular attractions around Kennesaw State University
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
