Fort Mill Ridge
General Information
Fort Mill Ridge is a Union fortification constructed between March and June, 1863, to defend the Mechanicsburg Gap and South Branch Potomac Valley. The remains of the fortification have been undisturbed over the past 135 years and are among the most intact and best preserved Civil War earthworks.
The Fort Mill Ridge Foundation in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources has undertaken the preservation and interpretation of Fort Mill Ridge. A trail system with interpretive signs explains the fort's design and construction and highlights the Civil War events related to its occupation.
Signage along an easily accessible pathway into the center of the fort outlines the general history and establishment of the fort. A continuing trail loop around the fort includes signage discussing related historical events. Please allow approximately 40 minutes for the entire loop.
The earthworks at Fort Mill Ridge are extremely fragile. Please remain on the pathways at all times. Walking or climbing on the earthworks is strictly prohibited. Hiking in the woodlands outside the fort (beyond the outer entrenchments) is permitted.
(Administrative details follow)
Marker is on Fort Mill Ridge Park Road, on the right when traveling east.
Courtesy hmdb.org
