Hunter's Raid Civil War Trail
	Hunter's Raid Civil War Trail Lexington, VA 24450 800-732-5821
Description On May 11, 1864, 257 Virginia Military Institute cadets marched 84 miles to New Market, VA to take part in the Battle of New Market. Their valiant efforts cost a dear price as 10 cadets lost their lives and another 45 were wounded. The corps, however, was instrumental in turning the battle to defeat Union General Franz Sigel's army. In retaliation, General David Hunter brought forces 18,000 strong into Lexington, home of VMI. The Institute was considered a legitimate military target, as it was both an arsenal and a military training school. On June 12, Hunter ordered VMI burned. The Hunter’s Raid Civil War Trail is a scenic driving tour of Union General David Hunter’s 1864 raid through the Shenandoah Valley. Detailed trail markers may be found along the way. There are three Hunter's Raid Trail markers in Rockbridge County: - Lexington Visitor Center (106 East Washington Street) - Jordan's Point Park - Natural Bridge (underneath the Bridge) Location Lexington Visitor Center Marker From I-81 Take exit #188B. Follow Rt. 60 west. At the 4th stoplight (Lewis Street) turn right. Lewis Street will curve around to your left and turn into Washington Street. From I-64 Take exit #55. Follow Rt. 11 south. As you go over the Maury River Bridge Rt. 11 will split. Merge to the right (Rt. 11 Business). As you come into downtown Lexington turn left on Washington Street. Jordan's Point Park Marker From I-81 Take exit #191, this will put you on I-64 west for 1 mile. Take exit #55 off I-64. Turn left on Rt. 11 south. Take your first right after you go over the Veterans Memorial Bridge. Natural Bridge Marker From I-81 Take exit #180. Follow Rt. 11 south. At the intersection of Rt. 11 and Rt. 130, the Natural Bridge gatehouse is located straight ahead. From I-64 Take exit #56 to I-81 south. Take exit #180 off I-81. Follow Rt. 11 south. At the intersection of Rt. 11 and Rt. 130, the Natural Bridge gatehouse is located straight ahead.
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