Distance: 2.3 miles one way
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Change: Gain, 82 feet; loss, 75 feet
Source: Great Day Hikes of North Carolina’s Mountains – to – Sea Trail
The Bentonville Historic Trail is #26 of the 40 Hike Challenge. You can read about the others here. Bentonville Battlefield located in segment 12 of the MST is the site of North Carolina’s largest battle in the Civil War. Confederates suffered approximately 2,600 casualties: 239 killed, 1,694 wounded and 673 missing. The Union army had 1,527 casualties: 194 killed, 1,112 wounded, and 221 missing. Occurring in the last days of the War, in March 1865, it was one of many tipping points which lead to the final resolution of this sad and bloody chapter in our nation’s history.
Located at Trailhead 1 is the Visitor Center. This is a well designed information area with many educational displays that are extremely helpful in describing the intricate details of the battle. There are various items to see including a well produced film about the events leading to the Battle of Bentonville and how the conflict over those three days in March 1865 panned out. I recommend that you verify the operating hours so you can get the most out of your visit.
The Harper House is also located at the Visitor’s Center. This restored home was used as a field hospital for the US troops during the battle. It is now open for tours which can be arranged through the Visitor’s Center.
The trail leaves the Visitor Center and follows the Historic Trail through the actual battle sites. I recommend that you download the App and listen to the recorded tours as you go on this hike. Also, there is a driving tour on the roads around this area as well. More info. can be found here.
To get the most of this site, you will want to take the time and read the various information kiosks which allow you a better perspective of how the battle unfolded.
Much of the hike follows along the perimeter of existing cotton fields. It is well marked with the MST and Civil War Trails logos. Please be respectful and stay on the path so the local crops are not disturbed. It is a bit surreal standing on the edge of the cotton fields and woods where so many men lost their lives.
A complete list of the 40 Hikes and their Blog Posts can be found here
40 Hike Challenge Blue Ridge Parkway Conserving Carolina Falls Lake Hickory Nut Gorge Hiking Lake Lure Linville Gorge Mountains to Sea Mount Mitchell North Carolina Trails
I’m learning a lot with your pictures.