Walk the ground where the Valley's fate was decided.
Guided battlefield tours led by Dr. Rick Quest — historian, author, and licensed Shenandoah Valley Battlefield Guide.
History underfoot, not behind glass.
Step back in time and walk in the actual footsteps of those who gave their last full measure of devotion to their cause. March down the roads and lanes that lead to the trenches and deadly fields of fire.
Place your hand on the artillery. Search the ground for the remnants of earthworks, lunettes, and forts, and decide for yourself if this is "good ground." Hear the stories from long ago that still echo through time, and see the photographs that remind us of the humanity and sacrifice of those who lived it.
Reach across generations and experience the crucible of the Civil War. Join Rick as he guides you across the battlefields and shares the stories of those who witnessed history.
If you are not satisfied with your tour for any reason, you do not pay for the tour. It is that simple.
— Rick Quest, Founding GuideBattlefields available for touring
Each battlefield tour runs 2–3 hours, or can be customized to your time frame. Ride along with your guide for the full experience — individual tours combine into a full day.
1864 Shenandoah Valley Campaign
Other Tours
Individual battlefield tours may be combined into a full day or multi-day experience. Call or email for full-day pricing based on location and number of battlefields selected.
Dr. Richard "Rick" Quest
- Founding member, Shenandoah Valley Battlefield Guides Association
- B.A. & M.A., Binghamton University (SUNY)
- Ed.D., University of Pennsylvania — local history education
- Author, I Held Lincoln: A Union Sailor's Journey Home
- Based near Winchester, Virginia
Rick is an educator, historian, and author whose research at the University of Pennsylvania focused on the importance of teaching local history — a thread that runs through every tour he leads.
He is the author of I Held Lincoln: A Union Sailor's Journey Home, published by the University of Nebraska Press, and has appeared on Civil War Talk Radio, The Author's Voice, and the Battlefields & Bourbon podcast. He speaks frequently to Civil War roundtables and historical organizations.
Based near Winchester, Virginia, Rick brings together scholarship, storytelling, and the battlefield landscape to explore what happened, why it mattered, and why it still matters today.
What guests are saying
Real words from guests who've walked the ground with Rick.
"Rick took us to the location where my ancestor's unit was on the battlefield. I have never felt so connected to my family's past."
— John R., Third Winchester Tour"We would have never found these battlefield locations and sites without Rick."
— Steve M., Cedar Creek Tour"Rick made the history come alive! I wish I had him as a teacher when I was in school. Great stories, and history."
— Joan S., Third Winchester TourTour details & pricing
For up to four people. Group rates for more than four are available on request.
Payment accepted by cash, check, or Venmo.
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Book your tour
Call, text, or email to check availability and put together an itinerary — single battlefield, full day, or multi-day.