Embark on a tour of pivotal Civil War battlefields in the Shenandoah Valley, a region long known by Native Americans as the “Daughter of the Stars.” This day trip covers significant sites from the 1862 and 1864 campaigns, where North and South clashed over strategic points crucial to Confederate supply lines and Union efforts to threaten Washington D.C.
The journey starts with the 1864 battle of New Market, where Confederate General Breckinridge called upon Virginia Military Institute cadets in a critical fight against Union forces. This battle was part of Grant’s strategy to secure the valley alongside his Overland Campaign.
After a scenic lunch break in the valley, the tour proceeds to the battle of Piedmont, where Union General David Hunter’s advance on Staunton in 1864 was contested fiercely by Confederate forces under General William “Grumble” Jones.
The final stops are Cross Keys and Port Republic, key battles of Stonewall Jackson’s 1862 campaign. Despite being outnumbered, Jackson’s tactics led to victories that contributed significantly to Confederate efforts, setting the stage for the defense of Richmond.
Experience these historic sites, largely untouched and preserved, for a genuine glimpse into America’s past, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Shenandoah Valley.
This private battlefield tour pairs nicely with our Northern Shenandoah Campaigns Tour.
Let us show you the way as you relax and skip the self-guided tour hassle. Your own battlefield guide will meet you at the New Market State Historical Park, in front of the Virginia Museum of the Civil War.
After an introduction, your battlefield guide will join your vehicle as you depart to your first stop. It is recommended that the battlefield guide drive your vehicle so you can relax and enjoy the tour, but it’s up to you who drives.
Joining your vehicle keeps the cost down so you can see more battlefields with us.
Step-on battlefield guides are available for larger passenger vehicles (van or bus). For more information and prices, please contact us.
Note: The Southern Shenandoah Valley Campaigns can be tailored into one of our Custom Battlefield Tours.
