52 Hike Challenge 2018 | Hike 1

It’s a new year, and a new 52 Hike Challenge! I’m about to move from Atlanta to Los Angeles, so I’m trying to get in some good North Georgia hikes before we leave. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is one of my favorite places to hike near Atlanta. I’ve hiked many trails here and had some “adventures”. But I’ve never been able to find the trail head for the Environmental Trail. So, I set out to find this elusive trail for a nice, easy, weekday walk.

Environmental and 24 Gun Battery Trails

When I got to the park, I still couldn’t find the trail head, so I asked for directions. The person I asked didn’t know, which helped my ego. Hooray, I’m not the only one! But they pointed me in the right direction, and I was able to find the trial from there.

I started down the Environmental Loop, a self-guided interpretive trail that’s flat and just over a mile. However, about a third of a mile in, the 24 Gun Battery Trail splits off and makes a quick jaunt across a field and back, adding about 3 miles. I couldn’t resist, and my hike was suddenly in 4 mile territory. It was freezing, it was windy, but it was worth it.

Still a relatively flat trail, the 24 Gun passes through forest, field and civil war cannons. That’s why I love Kennesaw so much. There’s a good amount of natural and cultural history going on. No matter how many times I visit, I always notice or learn something new.

I can’t say I’m particularly attached to the Atlanta area, but I will miss Kennesaw Mountain NBP.

Hike Summary

Hike 1 Stats