PA Historic Places

Exploring the Gettysburg Campaign Trenches in Bedford County

A collage of four images related to the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The top left photo shows a dirt trench winding through a forest, with trees and ferns lining the path. The top right photo is a Pennsylvania historical marker detailing the construction of the entrenchments by Colonel J.C. Higgins' militia in June 1863 to defend the Altoona railroad. The bottom left image is a portrait of Colonel Jacob Higgins, dressed in his military uniform with his cavalry hat resting on a table beside him. The bottom right photo shows a sign explaining that 1,500 militia men under Higgins constructed the entrenchments, with the threat ending after the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863. The collage visually captures key elements of the historic defenses in Bedford County during the Civil War.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County, you’re in the right place!

A forested dirt trench, lined with fallen leaves and ferns, winds through the trees at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The trench is shaded by a canopy of tall trees, with sunlight filtering through and casting dappled patterns on the forest floor. The natural overgrowth and winding path showcase the historic fortifications built during the Civil War to protect the region from potential Confederate advances. The serene environment contrasts with the site's historical significance. — The Civil War trenches in Bedford County.

The Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County are historic earthworks constructed in June 1863 by local militia to defend against a potential Confederate invasion during the Civil War.

A close-up of a weathered newspaper article titled "Trench rich in Civil War history" from the *Altoona Mirror*, displayed on a kiosk at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The article, written by Beth N. Gray, discusses the historical significance of the trenches constructed during the Civil War to defend against Confederate forces. The paper appears aged, with visible cracks and wear, and is pinned to the kiosk with rusted nails. The accompanying photo in the article shows a person standing near the historic trench, illustrating the preservation efforts at the site. — A close-up of a weathered newspaper article titled “Trench rich in Civil War history” from the *Altoona Mirror*, displayed on a kiosk at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County.

Though the Battle of Gettysburg itself is well-documented, the existence of these trenches located roughly 80 miles west of Gettysburg is often forgotten, a mere footnote to the larger conflict.

An artillery exhibit at the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center, featuring a Civil War era cannon prominently displayed in the foreground. The cannon, mounted on a wooden carriage with large spoked wheels, is positioned in front of a series of exhibit cases containing additional artifacts. Informative displays and historical photographs adorn the walls in the background, providing context and narrative to the battle and the weaponry used. The room is softly lit, with focused lighting on the cannon and display cases. — The Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War.

However, they represent an important chapter in Pennsylvania’s defense strategy during a time of great uncertainty in June 1863.

A close-up of a Pennsylvania historical marker at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The marker explains that entrenchments along the roadside were constructed in June 1863 by local militia under Colonel J.C. Higgins to defend against a potential Confederate attack on the Altoona railroad. It notes that the Confederate advance was halted by the Battle of Gettysburg at the end of June, which eliminated the need for the fortifications. The marker is surrounded by trees and bathed in sunlight, standing as a reminder of the area's Civil War history. — Historical marker along Lower Snake Spring Road.

Backstory of the Gettysburg Campaign Trenches

As the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia advanced northward in the early summer of 1863, fear spread across Pennsylvania.

Confederate reenactors in period uniforms stand in formation behind a wooden fence, with smoke from musket fire rising around them. Tents and cannons are visible in the background, suggesting a campsite setting amidst the reenactment of the Battle of Gettysburg at the historic Daniel Lady Farm in Adams County, PA. The scene captures the atmosphere of a Civil War battle with participants and equipment authentically recreated. — Confederate Civil War reenactors at Gettysburg.

After the Union’s defeat at the Second Battle of Winchester, General Robert Milroy’s small force retreated to Bloody Run, now known as Everett, in Bedford County.

A historical black and white portrait of Union General Robert Milroy, who played a key role in the events leading up to the Gettysburg Campaign. After his defeat at the Second Battle of Winchester in June 1863, Milroy's forces retreated into Pennsylvania, contributing to the growing fear of a Confederate invasion. This retreat set the stage for defensive measures, including the construction of the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. In the photo, General Milroy is shown in a military uniform with a stern expression, holding his sword, and wearing a belt with a pouch. His leadership during this critical period was marked by both challenges and significant contributions to the Union war effort. — General Robert Milroy.

This retreat heightened concerns that the Confederates would soon invade the state.

Confederate reenactors, dressed in period uniforms and carrying rifles, march in formation across a field under a bright blue sky. They carry Confederate flags, and one man at the front appears to be giving orders, pointing forward with a sword. The setting is the Battle of Gettysburg reenactment at the historic Daniel Lady Farm in Adams County, PA, capturing the intensity and authenticity of the historical event. — Confederate Civil War reenactors at Gettysburg.

Of particular concern was the major Pennsylvania Railroad hub in Altoona, a vital transportation link for the Union army.

A historical map from 1857 showing the Pennsylvania Railroad and its connections across the eastern and midwestern United States. The map highlights the vast network of rail lines linking Pennsylvania to states such as Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and beyond, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Altoona railroad hub during the Civil War. This transportation system was a crucial supply and communication link for the Union, making it a potential target for Confederate forces during the Gettysburg Campaign. The intricate web of railways reflects the vital role of the Pennsylvania Railroad in both commerce and military logistics. — Pennsylvania Railroad connections across the northern United States.

Confederate General John D. Imboden’s “Northwestern Brigade” had already wreaked havoc on railroad infrastructure in Maryland, making the threat very real for those in western Pennsylvania.

A historical black and white portrait of Confederate General John D. Imboden, who played a significant role during the Gettysburg Campaign. Imboden commanded the "Northwestern Brigade," consisting of 2,100 men, and was responsible for damaging vital railroad infrastructure in Maryland as his forces advanced northward in June 1863. His brigade posed a potential threat to western Pennsylvania, including the strategic Pennsylvania Railroad hub in Altoona. This photo captures General Imboden in his Confederate uniform, with his hand tucked into his coat, reflecting the style of military portraits from the Civil War era. His actions contributed to the defensive measures, such as the construction of the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County. — Confederate General John D. Imboden.

In response to this imminent danger, local militia forces were organized under Colonel Jacob Higgins, tasked with defending the region, including the strategic passes near Bedford County.

A historical black and white portrait of Union Colonel Jacob Higgins, who played a key role during the Gettysburg Campaign. In June 1863, Higgins led local militias in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, organizing the defense against a potential Confederate invasion. He commanded a force of approximately 1,500 men who constructed the Gettysburg Campaign trenches to protect the region and the crucial Altoona railroad. In the photo, Higgins is dressed in a military uniform with a double-breasted coat, holding his sword, and his cavalry hat rests on a nearby table. His leadership was pivotal in the defense of western Pennsylvania during the Civil War. — Colonel Jacob Higgins

Using the natural landscape of the mountains, Higgins’ militia, consisting of about 1,500 men, constructed defensive barriers using local resources, building stone-filled cribs at key mountain passes and streams and digging trenches, some of which still exist today near Everett, Bedford County.

A sunlit dirt trench, covered with fallen leaves, runs through a dense forest at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The trench is flanked by grassy, gently sloping sides, and surrounded by tall trees with a canopy filtering light onto the ground. This historic trench, dug in June 1863, was part of the defensive fortifications built by local militia to protect the area from a potential Confederate invasion during the Civil War. The peaceful, wooded scene contrasts with the site's historical significance. — Facing west along the trenches.

However, before Imboden could advance into western Pennsylvania, Confederate General Robert E. Lee ordered his troops to consolidate at Gettysburg, redirecting the immediate threat.

Fall foliage around the Virginia Monument on the Gettysburg battlefield. — Fall foliage around the Virginia Monument on the Gettysburg battlefield, with General Robert E. Lee portrayed on the top.

With Lee’s defeat at Gettysburg, the emergency in western Pennsylvania subsided, and Higgins’ volunteers returned to their homes, having successfully defended their region.

A historical illustration of the Battle of Gettysburg, which took place on July 3, 1863. The image depicts Union and Confederate forces engaged in intense combat, with soldiers charging and cannons firing. Union soldiers, carrying American flags, are seen advancing on the battlefield as smoke fills the air. Confederate troops hold their position, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. The artwork captures the chaos and ferocity of the battle, which was a turning point in the Civil War. This battle indirectly impacted the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, as the Confederate defeat at Gettysburg ended the threat to the region. — The Battle of Gettysburg (public domain image.)

Visiting the Gettysburg Campaign Trenches in Bedford County Today

Today, visitors to the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County can walk through these historic fortifications.

A map showing the layout of the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The map highlights key locations, including a parking lot, signage at the eastern end of the trenches, the state historical marker, and a kiosk at the western end. The trenches follow along Lower Snake Spring Road, and the paths between the sites are marked in yellow. The map provides an overview of the area, helping visitors navigate the historic Civil War trenches constructed in 1863 to defend against a potential Confederate attack on the Altoona railroad. The surrounding area is depicted as densely forested. — Aerial view of the Gettysburg Campaign trenches near Everett.

The trenches, though softened by time and nature, are still visible in the quiet woods near Lower Snake Spring Road.

A view of a dirt trench winding through a wooded area at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The trench, flanked by moss-covered ground and trees with patches of lichen, blends into the natural surroundings. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled light on the forest floor and highlighting the path of the historic fortification. This section of the trench is located on the western side of Lower Snake Spring Road, offering a glimpse into the Civil War-era defensive works created to guard against potential Confederate advances.

Informational signage at both ends of the trenches provide context, explaining the significance of the trenches and the militia’s efforts.

A forested area with a sign marking the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The sign explains that in June 1863, a militia of about 1,500 men, under Colonel Jacob C. Higgins, constructed the entrenchments to defend against a potential Confederate attack on the railroad hub at Altoona. The Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863 eliminated the need for these defenses. The sign is part of an Eagle Scout project completed in 2021, and the wooded trail in the background follows the historic trench line through the trees.

The surrounding forest is peaceful, a stark contrast to the anxious days of 1863 when these defenses were hastily constructed.

A dirt trench, lined with leaves and surrounded by tall trees, winds through a forest at the site of the Gettysburg Campaign trenches in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. Sunlight filters through the green canopy, casting dappled light on the ground. The trench, dug during the Civil War in June 1863, blends into the natural surroundings, showcasing the remnants of the historical fortifications built to defend the region against potential Confederate attacks. Ferns and undergrowth cover the forest floor, adding to the peaceful yet historic atmosphere.

Directions to the Gettysburg Campaign Trenches in Bedford County

The Gettysburg Campaign trenches are located on either side of Lower Snake Spring Road in Bedford County, on State Game Lands 73.

Look for the historical marker pictured below along the road, near the crest of a hill.

A close-up of a Pennsylvania historical marker at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The sign notes that the entrenchments, still visible along the roadside, were built in June 1863 by local militia under Colonel J.C. Higgins to defend against a possible Confederate attack on the Altoona railroad. The marker also mentions that the Battle of Gettysburg in early July eliminated the need for these defenses. The marker stands beside a sloping roadside with trees in the background and a road curving uphill. Sunlight illuminates the marker, casting shadows on the ground.

At the very crest of that hill, turn onto the the Snake Spring game lands access road.

A wooden sign at the entrance to Snake Spring Access in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, marks the location of State Game Lands open to public hunting, managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Next to the sign, a yellow road warning indicates a steep 13% grade for 1 mile ahead. The sign is situated alongside a winding road bordered by dense green trees, highlighting the rural and natural surroundings of the area near the Gettysburg Campaign trenches. The clear blue sky and bright sunlight illuminate the scene.

Follow the game lands road for roughly 50 yards and park on your right in the gravel lot, located at GPS coordinates 40.10127, -78.38866.

A small gravel parking area located at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, surrounded by dense forest. A red pickup truck is parked in the clearing, with dirt and gravel roads leading through the trees. The foliage is lush, with patches of sunlight filtering through the leaves and casting shadows on the ground. The scene offers a peaceful and secluded spot for visitors arriving to explore the historical site of the Civil War fortifications.

From the back edge of the parking lot, follow the obvious gravel path 25 yards to the eastern end of the trenches.

A gravel path winds through a dense forest at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The pathway, surrounded by lush green trees and undergrowth, leads visitors from the parking area deeper into the woods toward the historic Civil War entrenchments. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere as the trail gently curves through the natural landscape, inviting exploration of the historic site.

Final Thoughts

The Gettysburg Campaign trenches are likely the westernmost spot in PA denoted by a Gettysburg Campaign historical marker.

A Pennsylvania historical marker stands beside a winding road at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. The marker explains that the entrenchments, still visible along the roadside, were constructed in June 1863 by local militia under Colonel J.C. Higgins to defend against a potential Confederate attack on the railroad at Altoona. The Battle of Gettysburg in late June and early July ended the need for these defenses. The road curves through a wooded area, with sunlight filtering through the trees, creating a serene backdrop for the historical site.

It’s a reminder of the broader scope of the Gettysburg Campaign and the far-reaching impacts of the conflict.

This image features an exhibit from the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, PA, focused on "The Election of 1864". The wall is adorned with a large banner reading "UNION FOREVER" and several framed items, including historical quotes, images, and explanatory texts that provide context about the election during the Civil War. A quote from a Confederate soldier expressing fatigue from the war is highlighted on the left. On the right, informational panels detail the political climate and significance of the 1864 election. The exhibit gives insight into the sentiments and political dynamics of the era. — Exhibit at the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg.

Whether you’re a Civil War enthusiast or just interested in Bedford County history, the Gettysburg Campaign trenches are well worth exploring.

A dirt trench winds through a forested area at the Gettysburg Campaign trenches site in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. Surrounded by tall trees and thick underbrush, the trench is a reminder of the defensive fortifications constructed in 1863 by local militia to protect the region from a potential Confederate invasion. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting light on the leaf-covered ground, while the peaceful setting contrasts with the area's historical significance. This view looks east towards Lower Snake Spring Road.

Exploring the Battlefield at the Gettysburg National Military Park is your guide to the most famous battlefield in America.

The collage features four photos taken on the battlefield at Gettysburg National Military Park. The top left image shows a statue of a Union officer on Little Round Top during a peaceful sunset, overlooking the expansive battlefield. The top right image captures a monument dedicated to the 78th and 102nd New York Infantry, depicting a soldier crouched behind rocks, set against a backdrop of colorful autumn foliage. The bottom left image displays a statue of a cavalry officer on horseback, surrounded by vibrant fall trees, highlighting the dynamic and detailed sculpture. The bottom right image features cannons and a monument at sunset, with the sky painted in warm hues and silhouettes of trees and statues in the background, creating a reflective and serene atmosphere.

Monterey Pass Battlefield Park and Museum in Franklin County preserves the site of Pennsylvania’s second-largest Civil War battle.

Collage of four photos taken at Monterey Pass Battlefield Park and Museum in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. The top left image shows a historical marker about the Battle of Monterey Pass with the museum building in the background. The top right image features mannequins dressed in Civil War uniforms inside the museum. The bottom left image captures a scenic view from Monterey Peak, highlighting green hills and a blue sky with clouds. The bottom right image displays an informational sign about the retreat from Gettysburg, detailing Longstreet's Corps.

Exploring the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg is your guide to this museum which explores the significant events, individuals, and narratives that defined the American Civil War.

The collage features four images from The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The first image is the museum's entrance sign, the second shows a life-size diorama of an artillery soldier in action, the third is an exhibit of Union military uniforms and weaponry, and the fourth contains a quote from General William Tecumseh Sherman next to medals and ribbons. Together, these images offer a glimpse into the museum's efforts to chronicle and honor the history of the American Civil War.

26 Must-See Attractions in Bedford County is your guide to even more great things to see and do in Bedford County.

A collage of four photographs showcasing attractions in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. Top left: A woman stands on a wooden dock, gazing out over a calm lake reflecting autumnal trees and a bridge in the distance. Top right: The iconic Coffee Pot-shaped building with its gray walls, red accents, and a sign reading "THE COFFEE POT" against a backdrop of yellow fall foliage. Bottom left: A couple takes a selfie at a scenic overlook, with lush green hills stretching to the horizon under a blue sky with fluffy clouds. Bottom right: A historic red covered bridge over a serene creek, surrounded by verdant greenery and under a partly cloudy sky.

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