Drive from Atlanta to Chattanooga….

Question

Hi,

Planning to do this drive in a few weeks. Any interesting stops along the way? And any high altitude areas or is the drive mostly flat? Thanks

Answer

The drive from Atlanta to Chattanooga is a beautiful one, with plenty of interesting stops along the way. The distance is about 118 miles and typically takes around two hours, but depending on your route and stops, it can take longer. While the drive is mostly relatively flat, you will pass through some areas with rolling hills and scenic views, especially as you approach the Appalachian foothills.

Here are some fun and interesting stops you can consider along the way:

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park (Kennesaw, GA)
- Just outside Atlanta, this park offers both historical interest and some mild elevation changes. The battlefield is a Civil War site, and you can explore the trails, visit the visitor center, and hike to the top of Kennesaw Mountain for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Red Top Mountain State Park (Cartersville, GA)
- Located near Lake Allatoona, this state park offers hiking trails, picnicking areas, and beautiful views of the lake. There are also some gentle hills along the trails, making it a nice stop if you want to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site (Cartersville, GA)
- This archaeological site preserves the remains of a major Native American settlement that flourished between 1000 and 1550 AD. It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs, and the site includes a museum and walking trails around the mounds.
Lookout Mountain (Chattanooga, TN)
- Once you get to Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain is a must-visit. Although it’s not exactly “on the way,” if you’re staying in the area, it offers stunning views, historic sites, and attractions like Rock City, the Incline Railway, and the Civil War battlefield.

As for the drive itself, most of the journey is relatively flat, especially on I-75, which is the main highway between Atlanta and Chattanooga. However, as you approach the Chattanooga area, you’ll start to experience some gentle elevation changes, particularly as you near the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. While it’s not a high-altitude drive like the mountains further north, you will notice some mild inclines and more scenic views as you get closer to Chattanooga.

If you enjoy scenic views and mild elevation changes, the latter portion of the drive will give you a preview of the mountainous terrain near Chattanooga, but overall, it’s a manageable and pleasant drive with plenty of things to see along the way.

In summary, while the drive itself is mostly flat, there are some interesting stops that include mild elevation changes and scenic views. Whether you're interested in history, hiking, or just enjoying the scenery, there are plenty of ways to make the journey more enjoyable.