Important Notices
COVID-19 & the VBWTBefore heading out to visit a site on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail, be sure to check if that site has any COVID-19 policies or closures in place. This information is typically posted on a site's own website. |
Description
No one can walk the grounds of Manassas National Battlefield without feeling touched by the thousands who gave their lives here. Yet, the dedication of the National Park Service to maintaining the grounds in their original state has also created a unique wildlife viewing opportunity. The native grasslands that are carefully sustained for historical accuracy are amongst the most extensive remaining in the county. Grassland species such as grasshopper sparrow, eastern bluebird, field sparrow, northern bobwhite, and red-tailed hawk may be common at certain times of the year. In winter, rarities such as long-eared owl may be seen foraging over theses fields. The Park’s bird list, currently at 168 species, and other natural resource information can be accessed at their website by clicking on Nature and Science. One may walk the more than 20 miles of hiking and horse trails that access the battleground or drive the 12-mile self-guided tour. In any case, Manassas Battlefield Park should not be missed by anyone interested in the natural and human history of the United States.
In addition to the wildlife viewing opportunities available, the national battlefield is worthy of a visit for its historical significance alone. Manassas National Battlefield marked a seminal point in the Civil War. Two battles were fought here in 1861-62, and Confederate victories brought southern military power to its zenith. The national battleground memorializes these clashes and offers visitors an opportunity to bear witness to the struggles that once gripped these grounds.
Directions
Physical Address: 6511 Sudley Road, Manassas, VA 20109
From I-66, take Exit 47B, Route 234 North (Sudley Road). Proceed through the first traffic light. The entrance to the Henry Hill Visitors Center is on the right, just past the Northern Virginia Community College.
Location & Directions
View on Google MapsSite Information
- Site Contact: 703-361-1339
- Website
- Access: Free, Daily
Birds Recently Seen at Manassas National Battlefield Park (as reported to eBird)
- Red-tailed Hawk
- White-throated Sparrow
- Song Sparrow
- Canada Goose
- Great Blue Heron
- Black Vulture
- Turkey Vulture
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Downy Woodpecker
Seasonal Bird Observations
Facilities
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Interpretive Trail
- Parking
- Phone
- Picnic
- Restrooms