Hiking the Battlefield Trail

Walk in the footsteps of history!

Begin your history hike at the back of the Visitor Center. Along your half-mile walk to the battlefield overlook, you will see a landscape very much like the one experienced by soldiers in 1846. Our trails give you a great vantage point to admire the coastal prairie and it resources. Interpretive waysides along the trail will give you an insight to the site’s history, flora, fauna, and development.

Two additional trails lead you out to the U.S. and Mexican battle lines and put you in the heart of the action. Hiking our trails gives you the best opportunity to experience and understand the site of the first clash of the U.S.—Mexican War.

Details

Duration

45-90 Minutes

Activity

Hiking

Age(s)

All ages

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets on leashes are allowed. Owners must clean up after their pets.

Activity Fee

No

Free

Location

Palo Alto Battlefield Visitor Center

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Trails are available during normal park operating hours.

Accessibility Information

Trails are either paved concrete or boardwalk. The grade of the trail is fairly flat. Elevation at the battlefield overlook rises to approximately 6 feet. The primary trail is 8 feet wide. The U.S. and Mexican battle line trails are 4 feet wide.