Pedestrians and cyclists will soon be able to enjoy a direct connection between the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park + downtown Chickamauga, GA — thanks to a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC).

ARC has awarded nearby Walker County $434,131 to fund the Chickamauga Battlefield Connector Trail, a means to not only enhance outdoor recreational opportunities for residents but also connect visitors of the park to the downtown area.

Fun fact: The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park saw over one million visitors in 2023.

“This project will significantly impact our community by linking a population center with a popular natural and cultural asset,” said Chair of the Walker County Board of Commissioners Shannon Whitfield.

The trail will aim to provide additional access to the natural assets in north Georiga. | Photo provided by Walker County Government

Currently, a major highway stands in between the battlefield and other parts of the community, meaning folks have to use their vehicles to travel to and from the sites.

The one-mile, multi-use pathway will provide a safer pathway for pedestrians + cyclists by connecting two existing surfaced trails — completing a 2.2-mile trail from the Chickamauga Battlefield (at Wilder Road) to downtown Chickamauga.

Construction on the trail is anticipated to begin as early as late summer, with a potential to be completed by the end of the year.

Folks can keep up with the project by following Walker County Government's Facebook page for updates.