A hiking trail with interpretive signage helps visitors understand the May 1862 battle here.  The battlefield has remained largely untouched. Some buildings that stood during the battle including the Hull House, used a headquarters by both sides, remain in the village today. Union and Confederate dead from the battle are buried in the town cemetery. Sitlington's Hill, two miles east of McDowell on Highland Turnpike/U.S. Route 250, was a key element of the Confederate position here and can be reached via the marked trail. Several markers and waysides are along the Turnpike 2 miles east of town.