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Noonday Creek Trail route in Kennesaw, GA
Photo: Hannah Marie
View of Noonday Creek Trail in Kennesaw, GA
Photo: Hannah Marie

Noonday Creek Trail

FreePark
🕑 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on how much of the trail you explore and whether you stop at playgrounds👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers enjoy smooth stroller rides and spotting nature along the way, while older kids can bike independently or practice scooter skills on the flat, paved surface. The trail's gentle terrain makes it perfect for beginning cyclists ages 4-8.

About

Noonday Creek Trail offers families a beautiful paved pathway winding through Kennesaw's wooded landscapes, perfect for introducing little ones to biking or enjoying a leisurely stroller walk. The multi-use trail connects several parks along its route, giving families options to stop and play or continue exploring, making it as flexible as your family's energy level demands.

Highlights

  • Smooth, stroller and bike-friendly paved surface throughout
  • Scenic wooden bridges crossing over Noonday Creek
  • Wildlife spotting opportunities including birds, turtles, and squirrels
  • Shaded wooded sections providing relief on warm days
  • Connections to multiple parks with playgrounds for activity breaks

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Park at Swift-Cantrell Park on the southern end for easy restroom access, playgrounds, and water fountains before or after your trail adventure
  2. 2.Bring sidewalk chalk to let kids mark their progress along the trail or decorate rest stop areas
  3. 3.Visit after a rain to see Noonday Creek running full,kids love spotting turtles and fish in the water
  4. 4.The trail has several access points, so you can tailor your distance based on your children's stamina rather than committing to the full route
  5. 5.Pack bug spray during warmer months as the wooded sections can be mosquito-heavy in early morning and evening

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon on weekdays offers the most peaceful experience with fewer cyclists and joggers. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring wildflowers and fall foliage adding extra visual interest for kids.

What to Know

The trail is completely free to use with multiple parking areas along the route. While there are no food vendors on the trail itself, restrooms and water fountains are available at connected park areas like Swift-Cantrell Park.

Seasonal Notes

Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while fall offers stunning foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, so plan for early morning visits. The trail remains open year-round, though winter months may have wet or icy patches after storms.

Nearby Eats

Marietta Diner (about 10 minutes away) offers huge portions and an extensive kids menu in a fun, classic diner atmosphere. For a quicker option, Big Pie In The Sky Pizzeria serves family-friendly pizza and has a casual vibe perfect for hungry trail-goers.

More Activities Near Kennesaw

Park

Swift Cantrell Park

4.8Free

Swift Cantrell Park is Kennesaw's crown jewel for family fun, offering 50 acres of diverse activities that keep kids entertained for hours. From expansive playgrounds and splash pads to scenic walking trails and a performance amphitheater, this highly-rated destination has something for every family member, making it the perfect spot for both active play and relaxing picnics.

Adventure

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

4.8Free

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park offers families a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and living history on over 2,900 acres of preserved Civil War battlefield. Kids can explore 22 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs, discover historic cannons and earthworks, and participate in junior ranger programs that bring American history to life through hands-on activities.

Museum

Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History

4.7$

The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History brings history to life with its star attraction,the actual General locomotive from the famous Great Locomotive Chase. Kids can explore interactive Civil War exhibits, climb aboard train cars, and participate in hands-on activities that make learning about the 1860s exciting and memorable for the whole family.

Library

Switzer Library

4.7Free

Switzer Library in Marietta offers a stellar children's section that goes beyond traditional book browsing with hands-on maker space activities, engaging story times, and year-round educational programs. This modern facility consistently earns rave reviews from families for its welcoming atmosphere and variety of free programming designed specifically for young learners.