National Battlefield Offers

Nature, History, & Scenery Right Next Door

BY SHANNON MASON | FOR LNNUSA.COM

Looking to get out into nature as the weather warms up? Don’t particularly want to load up the kiddos for a road trip? Or maybe you are new to the area, haven’t established your bearings yet, and are looking for somewhere close by? How about right here on Fort Lee? The Petersburg National Battlefield Park Trailhead offers the chance to enjoy Mother Nature and is just down Mahone Avenue, across from the Holiday Inn here on Post. There is a small parking lot and informational map kiosk beyond the iron gates which are listed as being open from sunrise to sunset, or 5am-8pm currently.

The Petersburg National Battlefield encompasses a series of forts and earthworks that were constructed during the Siege of Petersburg during the Civil War. It was the longest military event throughout the Civil

War, lasting almost ten months with more than seventy-thousand casualties from both sides. General Grant eventually cut off supply and communication lines to Petersburg, a significant step towards finally accepting General Lee’s surrender.

There are eight total trails within the Petersburg National Battlefield Park and these dirt path trails are minimal to no elevation and perfect for those of all ages and activity levels. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, get a change of scenery while walking your dog, or set out on a bike ride. Most paths are jogging stroller-friendly if you’re wanting a new route to enjoy beyond your neighborhood streets, and if you’re looking to add a little texture to your workouts or Company PT, look no further.

You’ll be able to check out the different encampments and their outdoor exhibits, which have been realistically recreated. Enter the log cabin housing quarters structures and see where various soldiers slept at the time. You’ll also get an idea of the trench atmosphere with their cannons lined up and have an opportunity to read informational plaques and markers along the routes. Have a child studying the Civil War and want to add visuals to bring it to life in real time? Maybe you’re a history buff and are curious about the historical aspects embedded in this area? This opportunity is literally right at your doorstep.

Perhaps you are just after a peaceful walk with the maple and pine trees reaching towards the sky, small streams dotted with quaint little foot bridges, or local wildlife sightings. Watch springtime come into bloom and start anew as you discover each path, instill a love of nature into your children right outside their backyards, or even have homeschool outdoors for the day in the fresh air. Take advantage of the surrounding views for photography opportunities or just to clear your head and get away from the daily grind. The park provides something different for everyone’s needs.

For more in-depth information, further sites, tours, and the park’s visitor center found off Post, visit the National Park Service Petersburg National Battlefield website or call (804) 7323531.