Devils Den, Gettysburg Self-Guided Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Gettysburg and want a way to explore one of the battlefield’s most iconic spots without the fuss of a group tour, the Devils Den, Gettysburg Self-Guided Walking Tour might be worth considering. We’ve looked into what it offers, and here’s what you need to know — from its strengths to its limitations.

What immediately caught our eye is the price point—at just $9.99 per person, it’s an affordable way to get a detailed overview of this fiercely contested part of the battlefield. Plus, you get the flexibility of a self-guided experience, meaning you can take your time, pause, and revisit spots whenever you like, which makes it ideal for those who prefer exploring at their own pace. Another plus is the offline map feature, ensuring that even if your signal drops, your tour continues smoothly.

However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a traditional entry ticket to Gettysburg’s battlefield. You’ll want to check the opening hours before you start, as the tour is only available from sunrise to sunset. Also, some reviews hint that technical issues with the app can be a bit of a hiccup — so being prepared with a good internet connection during setup and some patience might save you frustration.

Overall, if you’re into history, enjoy using your phone as a storytelling device, and value the ability to explore independently, this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for history buffs who like a mix of self-paced learning and immersive storytelling, and for those planning multiple visits because the tour is valid for a full year after purchase.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Just under $10, offering good value for detailed battlefield insights.
• Self-Guided Flexibility: Explore at your own pace, with no time restrictions.
• Offline Access: Maps and audio work without Wi-Fi, perfect for busy or remote areas.
• Duration & Route: About 20-30 minutes, covering the essentials of Devils Den with a 0.11+ mile route.
• Tech-Dependent: Requires downloading the app and audio before visiting, which can pose challenges if Wi-Fi is weak.
• Mixed Reviews: Some users praise the storytelling and ease of use, while others faced technical glitches or misunderstandings about the tour format.

What Makes the Devils Den Tour Stand Out?

This tour doesn’t just give you a static map; it offers engaging storytelling through an audio guide that plays on your device as you walk. The voiceover, as praised by many, provides a colorful narration of the battle, bringing the landscape and soldiers’ experiences to life. It’s like having a knowledgeable guide right beside you, explaining the significance of the rocky terrain, the strategic importance of Devils Den, and the fierce fighting that took place here.

The route is designed to be comprehensive, ensuring you visit all the critical spots without missing a thing. The audio cues are automatic, so you don’t need to keep checking your phone constantly — just listen and walk. The hands-free feature makes it easy to focus on the scenery and take photos without fumbling with your device.

Another feature that reviewers appreciate is the long usability window—buy once, and you can revisit the tour over the course of a year. This plan is brilliant for those who like to explore at different times or want to share the experience with friends or family later.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Devils Den

This is the heart of the tour — the site of the most intense fighting during the Battle of Gettysburg. As you step into this rocky, sometimes alien-looking landscape, you’ll get a vivid sense of the chaos and desperation soldiers faced here.

The guide will take you through the history, narrating what happened in this particular part of the battlefield. You’ll hear stories of soldiers from both the Union and Confederate armies, giving you a balanced perspective on the fighting. One reviewer shared that the “great overview of the site, and what soldiers from both armies went through” made their visit memorable.

Walking amongst the towering boulders and rugged terrain, you can imagine the difficulty of combat here — a key reason why Devils Den was such a fiercely contested location. The terrain itself, with its rough rocks and sparse vegetation, makes it feel almost surreal—like walking through a battlefield long past but still alive in stories.

What to Expect During the Walk

You’ll cover approximately 0.11+ miles during this tour segment, which takes about 30 minutes. This isn’t a long walk, but it’s packed with history, so take your time. The audio guide will automatically trigger at each stop, giving you context and stories without needing to read or scroll through your phone constantly.

Technical Aspects & User Experience

The main advantage of this tour is the use of GPS and offline maps. Once you’ve downloaded the app and tour, you can wander freely without worrying about losing signal. This is a big plus, especially if you’re visiting during busy times or in areas with patchy cell service.

However, some users have experienced initial setup hiccups. As one reviewer noted, “The instructions for installing were a bit confusing, but it all worked out.” The app’s ease of use seems generally good, but having a clear set of instructions beforehand helps.

Another aspect to keep in mind is the tech dependency. If your device runs out of battery or if there are issues with the app, you might miss parts of the narration. Bringing a portable charger and headphones is a good idea.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts who like to explore independently and want a flexible, affordable option. It’s also great if you’re planning multiple visits since you can revisit the tour for a whole year after purchase. However, if you’re not comfortable with technology or prefer guided experiences, this might not be the best fit.

It could also be a good choice for small groups or couples who want a private, self-led experience. Just keep in mind that no one will meet you at the start — you’re on your own to begin the tour at your preferred time.

The Downsides: What to Watch Out For

While it’s generally praised, this tour isn’t without its flaws. Some users have found the installation instructions a bit confusing, and a few have experienced technical glitches that made the tour unusable during their visit. As one reviewer expressed frustration, “Nothing worked… the tour was unusable, and I had to go off on my own.”

Another point to consider is that this isn’t a guided tour in the traditional sense — there’s no live person to answer questions. If you prefer a more interactive or detailed guiding experience, a different option like a bus tour or a guided walk might suit you better.

Pricing & Value

At just $9.99, this tour offers solid value for money, especially considering it includes detailed storytelling and offline maps. Compared to guided tours that can cost much more, you’re getting a lot of content for a minimal investment.

Its long usability window, one year, adds to the value, allowing repeat visits or sharing with friends. For history buffs or travelers who want to explore Gettysburg at their own pace, this is a budget-friendly way to deepen your understanding of this pivotal battle.

Final Thoughts

The Devils Den, Gettysburg Self-Guided Walking Tour is a practical choice for those who enjoy history, prefer exploring independently, and don’t mind a bit of tech setup. It’s priced reasonably, offers good flexibility, and grants you access to engaging storytelling right on your device.

If you’re comfortable with using apps and want to explore without the constraints of a scheduled tour, you’ll likely find this a worthwhile way to spend half an hour among some of Gettysburg’s most striking terrain. It’s especially suitable if you’re planning to revisit or want a flexible option that fits into your schedule.

But if you’re not confident with technology or want a guided experience with a live guide, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a solo or small group visit, this tour provides a neat, budget-friendly way to connect with one of the most crucial moments in American history.

FAQ

Is this tour a ticket to Gettysburg?
No, it is not an entrance ticket. You will need to purchase a separate admission if required, and check the site’s open hours before your visit.

How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes, covering the main highlights of Devils Den in a short walk.

Can I use this tour multiple times?
Yes, once you buy it, you can use it for up to a year. It’s perfect for multiple visits or sharing with friends.

What do I need to do before visiting?
You’ll need to download the Actions Tour Guide App, enter the unique password sent to your email, and download the tour content while connected to good Wi-Fi. The app works offline after that.

Is it suitable for families?
While the tour is primarily a walking experience suitable for most travelers, it’s not specifically marketed as family-focused. If your family enjoys history and using apps, it could work well.

What if I face technical issues during the tour?
Support is available if you experience problems. It’s advisable to bring headphones and a portable charger for uninterrupted listening.

In the end, this self-guided tour is a flexible, budget-friendly way to get a sense of the fierce fighting at Devils Den and understand its significance in the Civil War. It’s best for independent-minded visitors who appreciate storytelling and are comfortable navigating apps — and for those planning multiple visits over the next year.