From the visitor center, start on the Kenneshaw Mountain Trail, which takes you up a series of switchbacks to the summit of Kennesaw Mountain (600' elevation gain). Take in the views of Atlanta from the top, then continue on the trail as it descends, then starts up Little Kennesaw Mountain.

At 2.5 miles you will reach the site of Confederate trenches at Pigeon Hill. In a little over a mile, take Noses Creek Trail to cross Burnt Hickory Road. You will then switch over to Cease Fire Trail after crossing Dallas Highway, at 4.6 miles. This trail takes you to Cheatham Hill and the Illinois monument, then backtracks to the Highway.

After crossing Noses Creek around 7.4 miles, take New Salem Church Trail to the right, passing by church ruins from the Civil War era. Hop onto Camp Brumby Trail to see a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps camp before returning to the visitor center.