For three days in July of 1863, the small town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, listened to the deep booms of cannon fire and pings of musket balls as American fought American. Gettysburg witnessed the bloodiest battle of the Civil War on its farm fields and through its homes. Tour this historic site on horseback for a true feel of what it must have been like as a member of the cavalry.
History
The battle of Gettysburg lasted July 1st through the 3rd in 1863. Over the duration, the battle took place in various areas including Cemetary Ridge, Culp's Hill and other spots now preserved as part of the 4,700 acres that make up the Gettysburg National Military Park.
Top battlefield places to visit while touring the park include the Peach Orchards, the Wheatfield Battle where the most blood was shed, Devil's Den Rock, Bloody Run Stream, and Little Round Top. Over all, the battles took place within a five-mile radius, with the worst of the battles being fought at these five sites.
Over 1,400 monuments, including stones and cannons, dot the landscape, commemorating the loss of life fought in the name of equality.
Features
Horseback tours feature different areas, including the open Wheatfield and Cemetary Ridge. Choose an hour tour, touching only on nearby sites. For those prepared for some saddle stiffness, take the three hour version and see many more sites. While horseback tours are limited on the sites they can see, you do get a period's eye view of the actual battle sites.
Horse Rentals
Rental fees start at $45, as of 2010. The price includes a one hour guided tour and the cost of the horse. Some stables offer unguided tours where you can roam a bit and linger where you like. Take the guided tour first so you know where you wish to explore further.
Several bed and breakfasts offer rentals as part of a package deal.
Whether going for a complete stay and tour package, or just adding a tour on a stop through, be sure to make reservations. The horseback tours often sell out.
Considerations
Time your visit for the first of July and watch the various re-enactment groups replicate some of the battles. Linen tents dot the site with period dressed soldiers. The smell of smoke and sound of cannon fire, shooting blanks of course, penetrate the morning fog. Transport yourself back in time as you walk or ride around the many replicated campsites.
Bring your bicycle and pedal through the town's numerous museums. Or if you like ghost hunting, bring your tape recorders and stroll through the Peach Orchard, reportedly the most haunted battlefield in Gettysburg.
Bring Your Horse
Load up your horse and bring him along. Instead of renting an unfamiliar horse, you can saddle up your favorite equine and ride a familiar friend on the tours of the historic battlefield. Many of the bed and breakfasts feature stalls for rent and package deals to house you and your horse. Other stables offer boarding as well. You can ride your horse on one of the guided tours or meander around on your own.
Check with the local stables for information on what portions of the park permit horseback riding.
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