Gettysburg National Military Park

Travel | Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg National Military Park is a quick and easy ninety minute drive from my home. Walking through the battlefields was surprisingly peaceful and quite beautiful. It's hard to believe so much turmoil took place on the scenic rolling hills and farmland surrounding the park roads.

Recommended Hikes

Available hiking trails are noted on the park brochure. Additional information may also be obtained by asking one of the rangers in the visitor center.

• Big Round Top - a short trail off South Confederate Avenue takes you to Big Round Top.

• Visitor Center - there are two trails located at the visitor center. One takes you toward Washington Street and Pleasonton Avenue while the other leads to the Soldiers' National Monument and Cemetery Hill.

• Youth Group Campground - a several mile long trail through the military park starts at this campground, taking you by the North Carolina Memorial, Virginia Memorial, Pitzer Woods, Warfield Ridge, Big Round Top, Little Round Top, Plum Run and back up to the campground.

Self-Guided Auto Tour

During my visit, I took advantage of the self-guided auto tour throughout the park. The signs are easy to follow and you will visit sixteen major stops along the way. The views and history lessons are worth the three or so hours in the car.

Additional Activities

• Bicycle riding through the park

• Guided bus tours

• Horseback riding trails

• Licensed battlefield guide service