Registration Now Open for Inaugural Author-Led Tour of New Sandy Ridge Connector Trail

After years of planning and hard work, a connector trail from Rose Hill Park to the recently acquired Kernstown Battlefield Association’s Sandy Ridge property will soon be open to visitors. Join noted author and historian Gary Ecelbarger on Friday, July 31st at noon for the grand opening tour of the trail!

The new Sandy Ridge Connector Trail largely follows the retreat route of the Confederates from the stone wall at Rose Hill Park to Sandy Ridge during the First Battle of Kernstown.  Once on Sandy Ridge, you’ll see the location of a Confederate mass gravesite where over 80 dead Confederate soldiers were hastily buried by Union forces from the 84th PA, as well as the death site of Colonel William Murray who commanded the 84th PA.  You’ll also see the location of a stone wall that once stood aside the old Apple Valley Road atop Sandy Ridge from where Confederate soldiers from the 21st VA, under Colonel John Patton, took position to fire on Union forces as they charged up the ridge trying to take one of the three Confederate artillery batteries placed on the hill by Stonewall Jackson.  

The tour will begin promptly at noon. Participants will meet in the parking lot of Rose Hill Park, 1871 Jones Rd, Winchester, VA. Even though the new connector trail is clear, it is through woods and you will be walking over rocks and roots.  The trail is roughly ½ mile in length but the total walking distance of the tour will be about 2 miles so please wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

If you are interested in joining us, please register in advance for this tour on our website at Inaugural Author-Led Tour of New Sandy Ridge Connector Trail — Kernstown Battlefield‍ ‍

There is no charge for this tour, but donations are greatly needed and appreciated. If you have any questions related to this event, please contact the KBA event coordinator Steve Chesley, via email at sbchesley@gmail.com or call 540-671-1510.