Final Attack Trail

9 NY assaulted the high ground south of Sharpsburg on the afternoon of the battle.  They lost 63% of those engaged during this action.

Antietam Staff/NPS Photo-Original sketch by Edwin Forbes

 

Introduction

The Final Attack Trail begins at Auto Tour Stop 8. The trail is 1.7 miles in length and takes 60 to 90 minutes to walk. The terrain is rolling and the trail can be uneven, so good walking shoes are recommended and please stay on the trail.

 

Trail Map

The trail map below shows the Final Attack Trail, current woodlots and the location of the historic 40-Acre Cornfield.

 

National Park Service

 

Final Attack Trail

Stop 1 - The Burnside Bridge

Start this hike at the Burnside Bridge overlook

Stop 2 - Advance on Sharpsburg

Walk in the footsteps of the United States 9th Corps

Stop 3 - Sherrick Farm

Union Soldiers attacked past this historic house

Stop 4 - Otto Lane Respite

The 11th Ohio Monument can be found in the Otto Lane

Stop 5 - Caught in the Corn

Explore the historic 40-acre Cornfield

Stop 6 - The End of the Line

Continue to the south end of the battlefield

Stop 7 - Final Attack Vista

Take in one of the best views of the battlefield

Stop 8 - Artillery Ridge

Walk to this key artillery position used by both armies.

Stop 9 - Soldier, Statesman and Martyr

Complete your hike at the McKinley Monument

Timeline and Table of Organization

Background information to help you with the Final Attack trail