Harpers Ferry Main • Tour the Battlefield > Union Skirmish Line
The main Union position during the 1862 Battle of Harpers Ferry was west of town along Bolivar Heights. Union skirmishers were sent into the valley to the west of the Heights to guard against an attack from Confederate forces forming on Schoolhouse Ridge.
The Union Skirmish Line Trail can be reached from two parking areas along Bakerton Road or by connecting trails from Bolivar Heights. Several wayside markers along the trail tell the story of the battle.
To see more on one of the markers click on the map or select from the list below:
A Dangerous Position
A Position Strong By Nature
The Confederate Perspective
Battle of Harpers Ferry/Jackson Arrives
Five Rounds Into the Darkness
From Skirmish Line to Burial Ground
The First Line of Defense
Union Skirmish Line
We Began Firing At Will