FOLLOW THE LANDSCAPE. DISCOVER THE STORY.

Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail

America’s stories are written into its landscapes.
Header: Morning light shines across Gloucester Courthouse in Gloucester, Virginia. During the 1781 Yorktown campaign, allied operations extended into Gloucester County, including the movement of Lauzun’s Legion across the York River from Yorktown. · NPS Photo · Public domain, NPS · Photo credits
PLACES THAT KEEP THE PAST CLOSE

A story worth following.

Trace the movement of allied French and American forces toward Yorktown in 1781. Town centers, campsites and battlefield interpretation reveal the scale and cooperation behind the campaign.

Historic Gloucester Courthouse with white columns at sunrise.
Morning light shines across Gloucester Courthouse in Gloucester, Virginia. During the 1781 Yorktown campaign, allied operations extended into Gloucester County, including the movement of Lauzun’s Legion across the York River from Yorktown.
NPS Photo · Public domain, NPS
Two reenactors in Revolutionary War-era military uniforms stand together in a park.
Living history programs help connect visitors to the American and French alliance, Newport’s role as a French army base, and the story of the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route.
NPS Photo · Public domain, NPS
BUILD YOUR OWN CHAPTER

Places to begin

  • Newport
  • Hudson Valley historic sites
  • Yorktown Battlefield

Suggested starting points, not a turn-by-turn route. Choose a manageable local section; stops may be far apart.

Make the visit work for you

The trail connects many separate places. Choose a regional chapter; do not assume a continuous marked public walking path.

Give the story time

Allow time for interpretation, a short walk and conversations. One well-chosen historic place can be more rewarding than a rushed list of stops.

Bring your group comfortably

Confirm parking, restrooms, walking surfaces and group reservations with each site. A historic trail designation does not guarantee coach access.

Official visitor information ↗

U.S. visits only. Historic routes may cross private property or have disconnected public sections. Official links provide current maps, access and operating information. Photographs may show earlier conditions.