Many of our family members live in Cumberland County Pennsylvania and we were looking for a fun family outdoor activity on “Black Friday” to avoid the stores. We chose the Army Heritage Trail since it is a flat, one mile trail that everyone in the family could easily tackle.
The Army Heritage Trail is located at the Carlisle Barracks, the second oldest active military base in the country. The trail consists of a one mile loop through 14 exhibits and artifacts highlighting every era of Army History. Many exhibits are interactive and allow you to step back in time as you walk through underground bunkers. mess halls, and watch towers. Larger artifacts like tanks and helicopters are also on display in this outdoor museum, providing an up close and personal view of the life of an Army soldier.
In addition to the outdoor Revolutionary War fort and the Civil War Cabins, there is also an indoor museum and education center which features exhibits through the eyes of service men and women, oral history recordings, a movie theater, and the opportunity to write a letter to a currently serving soldier. During the warmer months, outdoor reenactments are scheduled representing various eras of war. We had a great time strolling through history with the family, and learned a few things along the way too!
Helpful Information: The Army Heritage Trail is open from dawn until dusk. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash and picked up after. Walkers, Runners, and cyclists are all welcome.
For more information, visit www.ahec.armywarcollege.edu.
