Can't Cope without Kennesaw -- Friday Mid-Day Hike

We can't have a week go by without "THE" mountain!  Kennesaw Mt. addicts, here's your fix!  We're going to get our fill of the place by hiking up and over Big Kennesaw, Little Kennesaw and Pigeon Hill, crossing Burnt Hickory to take in the East and West Loops to Dallas Highway.  Then we'll return on the fire trail, re-cross Burnt Hickory, and go up the steep ascent of Pigeon Hill to the intersection by the wood railing.  At that point, the group can split, with some returning to the Visitor's Center via the fire trail around the base of the mountain;  others with the need for additional physical excitement can go back up and over Pigeon Hill, Little Kennesaw and Big Kennesaw. The pace will be moderatel, with the distance a definite consideration (9 miles). This is certainly not a beginner's hike, but a chance for those of you who have several D3's under your belts to go for an extra challenge.

We will meet at the Visitors' Center just outside the lobby for sign-in.  Please arrive a few minutes before noon to allow time for parking.  If the main lot is full, you may have to drive past the meadow down Old 41 about 1/4 mile to the new parking lot on the left and walk up to the Visitors' Center.  

Please understand that this will still be a strenuous hike, including over 2,000 feet of elevation gain (if you go up and over the mountains twice).  The total distance is approximately nine miles.  We will take rest breaks if needed, but - - depending on the group - - we may just keep trekking.  

REMINDER:

- Kennesaw Mountain can be difficult to find.  Please note the directions below.  There's an auxiliary lot about 1/4 mile down the road (Old Hwy. 41) from the Visitor's Center lot.

From I-75 North
To exit 269 (Barrett Parkway). At the stoplight turn left onto Barrett Parkway. Follow Barrett Parkway for approximately 3 miles, turn left at the light, onto Old Hwy 41. Turn right at your next light, Stilesboro Rd. The visitor center will be immediately on your left. Brown and white signs located along the roads will guide you as well.  You will pass the auxiliary lot before you get to Stileboro Rd.

From I-75 South
To exit 269 (Barrett Parkway). At the stoplight turn right onto Barrett Parkway. Follow Barrett Parkway for approximately 3 miles, turn left at the light, onto Old Hwy 41. Turn right at your next light, Stilesboro Rd. The visitor center will be immediately on your left. Brown and white signs located along the roads will guide you as well.

From I-575 North
To exit 1 (Barrett Parkway). At the stoplight turn left onto Barrett Parkway. Follow Barrett Parkway for approximately 3.5 miles, turn left at the light, onto Old Hwy 41. Turn right at your next light, Stilesboro Rd. The visitor center will be immediately on your left. Brown and white signs located along the roads will guide you as well.

From I-575 South
To exit 1 (Barrett Parkway). At the stoplight turn right onto Barrett Parkway. Follow Barrett Parkway for approximately 3.5 miles, turn left at the light, onto Old Hwy 41. Turn right at your next light, Stilesboro Rd. The visitor center will be immediately on your left. Brown and white signs located along the roads will guide you as well.