Cedar Mountain Battlefield

I’d been to the nearby battlefields of Kelly’s Ford & Brandy Station, but never knew this one even existed until recently! It’s a shame because this offers an actual hike and good number of historical markers.
The battle was fought in Aug 1862, when the Union tried to push south while Lee was distracted with the Peninsula campaign. Despite an early good start, the Confederates ultimately prevailed, setting the stage for the Second Battle of Manassas not long afterwards. Once again, Gen Jackson saved the day for the rebels.
The hike is less than 2 miles long, but seemed to take longer because I kept stopping to read the markers. It starts at an empty field where the initial artillery duel took place. The path consists of mowed hiking trails thru the forest. One stop is a graveyard for a Confederate who died during the battle, alongside and a Union soldier and his family who died years later (don’t know what his connection to this place is).

For years I have driven on Route 15 and seen the sign for this battlefield. I was always in a rush and never stopped. Yesterday, I decided to visit. I wish I had visited sooner. There is a small parking area on someone’s property tucked away around a bend from Route 15. From there you take a short trail through the woods and arrive at the historic signs that tell you about the battle. There is a big field to your right that abuts Route 15. Head out on the scenic trail to your left that winds through old trees with views of a farm. The trail is about 1.5 and is peaceful and an easy hike. There are a couple of benches on the trail. I enjoyed my hike here more than in the battlefields further North because it was quieter. The other ones have lots of airplane noise and often noise from nearby roads. There are no facilities here just an outhouse that I avoided. This battlefield makes for a nice 1 – 2 meandering casual hike. You could see most of in in about a half an hour at a fast past though. Worth the stop even if it is a quick one.

So the kids and I have been hitting all the Civil War trails and sites we can this year. We live in a truly historic area. (and a beautiful one). This trail we walked last weekend. Moderate hike. shady and sunny spots. Tall grass but path well maintained. Lots of beautiful flower fields buzzing with bees and lovely golden butterflies. Sounds like a fairy tale I know and what a beautiful site for the Memorial. Paths intersect and take you to Monuments, Grave stones ETC.
Benches placed in shady spots for lunches or what have you.
Notes — porta potties– yes
Resting benches — yes
Trash cans — no — Please pick up after yourself.
Free to roam — No, this location is backed to private properties/​multiple. You are even parking in the driveway of a residence. Please be considerate of the land and land owner.
Enjoy your experience! Give thought to the battle.