Araceli Gallegos : “Kennesaw Mountain Road to Close Daily for Cars and Bikes”

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park attracts over 1 million visitors annually. The park, located in Georgia, has become a popular destination for hikers and bikers, with Kennesaw Mountain Drive being a favourite spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

In response to the increasing number of visitors, park officials are considering a significant change that could be implemented as early as next summer. The proposal involves restricting access to Kennesaw Mountain Drive, the scenic road leading to the mountain’s summit, in order to enhance visitor safety and experience.

Currently, the road is closed to cars and bicycles on weekends to accommodate hikers and bikers. However, the National Park Service is likely to adopt a plan that would prohibit bikes and cars from ascending the mountain daily starting in the summer of 2024.

Feedback on the proposal can be submitted through the park service’s website until July 12. Visitors and locals alike have expressed mixed opinions on the potential changes.

Concerns have been raised about the narrow two-lane road, which features nine blind curves and steep drop-offs. Hikers like Araceli Gallegos have highlighted the safety risks posed by the road’s limited width and challenging terrain.

Longtime park visitors, Waunelle and Brad, who have been hiking up the mountain daily for two decades, have witnessed numerous close calls and aggressive behaviour from cyclists. They emphasise the importance of prioritising safety on the mountain.

While some support the proposed changes for safety reasons, others have voiced concerns about accessibility for tourists and individuals with mobility issues. Mike, a hiker, is worried about the impact on less-abled visitors who may struggle to walk the entire route.

To address these concerns, park officials have announced plans to introduce shuttle buses that will transport visitors to the summit seven days a week. This initiative aims to reduce the number of cars on the road and provide a convenient alternative for those who may find the hike challenging.

Additionally, bike riders will still be able to access the road, but only during specific hours when shuttle services are not operational. This measure is intended to ensure the safety of all park users and minimise conflicts between different modes of transportation.