Battlefield events celebrate National Park Week
The National Park Service is partnering with the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks, to present National Park Week from April 15 to April 23.
This is the perfect time for families to plan a visit to a park since they may visit for free on Saturdays and Sundays, April 15-16 and 22-23.
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park announces three events that will be held in conjunction with National Park Week.
Entrance fees to Point Park on Lookout Mountain will be waived April 15-16 and 22-23. During those weekends, ranger-guided walking tours will be given at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tours will begin just inside the Point Park entrance gate and last about 45 minutes.
Free admission combined with guided tours provide an opportunity for visitors to learn about the Battle of Lookout Mountain while enjoying one of the country’s oldest national parks.
Kids ages 8 to 12 are invited to learn how to protect their national parks during Junior Ranger Day on Saturday, April 15, at the Chickamauga Battlefield in Fort Oglethorpe and at Point Park.
All participants will receive Junior Ranger badges or patches upon completion of the program. Junior Ranger booklets may be obtained at either of the park visitor centers.
At 2 p.m., Junior Rangers at both locations will have an opportunity to have a park ranger assist them in completing their Junior Ranger booklet. Parents should inquire at the Visitor Center of each park about this program.
Parents should make sure their children have on closed-toe shoes, are dressed appropriately for the weather, bring water and sunscreen. All parents/ guardians of a participating child will be asked to sign a photo/video release.
Also on Saturday, April 15, a 4-mile, ranger-guided hike exploring the Snodgrass Hill and Horseshoe Ridge areas of Chickamauga Battlefield will take place. This hike will depart from the Visitor Center at 9 a.m.
Participants should note the hike will cover hilly and uneven terrain. Participants should wear supportive footwear, dress appropriately for the weather, bring water, a day pack and light trail snacks.
For more information about programs at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at 706-866-9241, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at 423-8217786 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/ chch.