Cedar Mountain, Virginia

Cedar Mountain is a ridge in Virginia's Piedmont region that rises distinctly from the surrounding flatland. Its forested slopes and open summit areas shape the landscape and offer wide views in all directions.

A major battle took place here on August 9, 1862, between Confederate and Union armies. The outcome shaped military operations for both sides in the region for the rest of the campaign season.

The site functions as a memorial to the 1862 battle, letting visitors experience the terrain as soldiers saw it during combat. Preserved pathways and defensive positions help people understand how troops moved across the ridge during the fighting.

The grounds are accessible to visitors throughout the year with parking and well-maintained trails. The terrain is partly hilly, so wearing good shoes and allowing time for walking is recommended.

The grounds offer surprising insights into medical history, as field hospital operations at large scale were first systematically documented here. These medical innovations during wartime helped establish modern battlefield medical practices.