Antietam Anniversary Hike Approaching

In two weeks, on Friday September 17th I will be attending the annual Antietam National Battlefield hike. This hike takes place on the anniversary of the battle and is a guided hike led by NPS Rangers and volunteers... like me! I have participated in this hike the past two years and had a fantastic time. I had never walked the entire field before and it gave me a perspective on the battle that can not be learned any other way. The morning hike is over mostly flat ground with a few gentle hills. The afternoon portion of the hike at the southern end of the field is the most challenging. Row after row of parallel ridgelines. Anyone in average or better shape can make both parts of the hike. This years hike is will be six miles in length. Good hiking shoes or boots are recommended. I also pack a lunch, snacks and plenty of water. I don't really go as much for taking photographs as I do to learn about the battle, although I will stay for a while in the evening to get some landscape photos, weather permitting. I will be going this year rain or shine, as I have officially volunteered to assist the Rangers. I will be in my nice green and tan uniform. If you are local and interested in joining me on the hike, learning about America's bloodiest day, and/or taking some landscape photos leave me a comment or send me an email. We can make arrangements to meet either on the way to the park or at the visitor center. Last year I was joined by Lynn, Clark and Tom and we had a very good time. I hope they and many others will join me this year. The park is also holding several other events in conjunction with the 142nd anniversary over the next couple of weekends.

BATTLE ANNIVERSARY HIKE
Date
Friday, September 17, 2004

This all day hike will cover the entire battlefield in two separate programs. The morning hike will begin near the Visitor Center at 9:00 am. The afternoon hike will begin near Tour Stop #9 at 1:00pm. Both hikes are approximately 3.5 miles in length and the afternoon hike will be completed in time for participants to attend the Battle Commemorative Ceremony which will begin at the Maryland Monument at 6:00 pm. Further details will follow and the hikes will take place rain or shine.

Friday, September 17th — Rangers will lead two extended battlefield hikes. The Morning hike meets at the Visitor Center at 9:00 a.m. and it will last until 12:30 p.m. (distance is 3 1/2 miles). This hike will explore the fighting in the Cornfield, West Woods and conclude at Bloody Lane. The Bloody Lane portion of the hike can be joined by meeting at the Visitor Center at 11:00. The Afternoon Hike is from 1:30 p.m.- 4:30 p.m. and will highlight the struggle for Burnside Bridge, and the Union advance on Sharpsburg (distance 2 1/4 miles). Visitors will explore the entire length of the 8,000 man, one-mile wide Union battle line that was turned back by A.P. Hill’s Confederate counterattack. The hike will begin at the Burnside Bridge, stop 9 on the auto tour route.

Saturday, September 18th and Sunday, September 19th - Park Rangers will lead a series of battlefield hikes, following in the soldier's footsteps, at the approximate time the battle events occurred in 1862, detailing the tactics of the Battle of Antietam. The hikes will take place rain or shine. Hikers should dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes and be prepared to hike across fields.