I was a bit disappointed in my recent stop at Kennesaw Mountain NBP during a recent trip to Atlanta. I can see how others say the park is being overrun by the city. It really is.

Having visited serene places like Shiloh, I found it almost disrespectful to see people jogging and walking their dogs at such a historic site. We only had about an hour to drive around and check it out. We drove up to Kennesaw mountain which had nice views and stories about the battle. Then we followed the map to Cheatham Hill. This drive takes through neighborhoods. Only trails keep in actually in the park. The small marker for unknown soldiers was a nice find near Cheatham Hill. We didn't make it to Kolb Farm.

It's too late now, but it is too bad more of the park wasn't preserved, instead it was developed. And the park seems to have become a place to recreate, rather than remember. A nice stop for Civil War buffs, but it doesn't compare to some of the more well-known battlefields.

Bring your walking shoes, this park is filled with miles of trails to explore this historical landmark. You know this is the place to go, when you see that any time of the day regardless of the weather, the locals come out in full force for their daily hikes. Young & old take advantage of the shaded trails all the way through the winter. Some trails you can push a regular stroller up, but others you will at least need a jogger. If you really want to learn more about the battle, spend time in the excellent museum at the base of the mountain. Lots of civil war relics to keep even young kids interested.

KMNB, located just north of Atlanta not to far off I-75, has some distinctions that set it apart from the other national battlefields. This particular one is at high risk of being strangled by its city surroundings. That is my long term concern. Another distinction about this Civil war site is that it’s more geared towards walkers as opposed to drivers (although a driving tour is available but closed during my visit). The trails, which have monuments/plaques, are well maintained through a partnership between a local hiking/walking club and the NPS. Lastly this is a local favorite spot for bringing leashed dogs, walking, picnicking, Frisbee, etc. Some days parking is a little tight. The visitor’s center/bookstore is an excellent resource for passive and seasoned Civil War enthusiasts. At the end of your visit, you will at least walk away knowing who won the battle. Free admission

We had both looked forward to visiting Kennesaw, GA and went out of the way traveling to visit. We found the signs very hard to follow and missed large portions of the park. We did find the Confed. cemetery where my husband's gr-gr-grandfather was buried. We never did find the visitor center and went around in circles finding the Kolb farm.

What we did find though we enjoyed! Loved the informational signs, monuments and history. Worth the trip but will have more information the next time.