World War 1 Walk Through Trenches and Bunkers

Experience the Battle of the Argonne Forest on a Personal WWI Tour

This private tour takes you into the heart of the Argonne Forest, located about a three-hour drive from Paris or Brussels, and just an hour from Reims and Luxembourg. For $172.37 per group (up to 15 people), you get roughly three hours of walking alongside a knowledgeable guide who shares inside stories and shows you bunkers, trenches, tunnels, and even a German hospital. The tour is flexible—you can start at a time that suits you, and it can be tailored to your comfort level, including more paved, easier paths if needed.

What we really love about this experience is the personal storytelling—it brings history alive far better than a static museum visit. Plus, the guide’s familiarity with the regiment histories makes each stop vibrant with vivid descriptions and stories that you won’t find in textbooks. The second highlight: the chance to walk through actual war remnants and tunnels, feeling a tangible connection to the soldiers who fought here.

A consideration to keep in mind: since there are no public transport options to reach the forest, you’ll need to come by car. Also, the tour requires moderate physical fitness and involves some climbing and walking over uneven terrain, so it’s not ideal if you’re not comfortable on your feet or have mobility issues. This experience suits history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone eager to understand WWI from a ground-level perspective—those willing to get a bit muddy and wet will get the most out of it.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Walk through actual trenches, bunkers, tunnels, and a German hospital, with a personal guide bringing history to life.
• Flexible Tour: Starts at your preferred time and can be adjusted for comfort, including paved paths for easier walking.
• Educational & Moving: Inside stories about soldiers, especially the 77th Battalion, enhance understanding of WWI battles.
• Limited Shopping & Food Stops: No nearby restaurants—bring your own drinks and snacks.
• Private & Personalized: Only your group participates, making for a more intimate experience.
• Transport & Fitness: You need a car to get here; moderate physical fitness is recommended due to uneven terrain and climbing.

A Deep Dive into the WWI Trench and Bunker Tour

The Location and How to Get There

Situated in the lush, quiet woods of the Argonne, the tour’s remoteness is part of its charm. You’ll need to drive; there’s no public transit. The tour start point is at Église de Binarville, a small church with a central location for access to the front lines. The forest itself is about three hours from Paris and Brussels, making it a feasible day trip if you’re based in the region. For travelers coming from farther away, it’s worth renting a car for the flexibility and to truly explore the site at your own pace.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Stop 1: Lost Battalion Memorial
This memorial marks the tragic and heroic stand of the 77th Battalion under Major Whittlesey. Walking through the Argonne Forest, you’ll enter bunkers, trenches, tunnels, and even a German hospital. Expect to hear detailed accounts of 1918 battles, giving you a visceral sense of what it was like to be immersed in WWI combat zones. Your guide will read excerpts from the soldiers’ diaries, making history personal and tangible.

Walking through trenches and tunnels offers a rare chance to see how soldiers lived, fought, and hid. A particular highlight is the German hospital, which you can explore firsthand, giving insights into the medical side of wartime suffering.

Throughout the tour, the guide provides inside information—from regiment histories to personal soldier stories—making the experience both educational and moving. The tour is designed to be engaging but physically active, with some climbing and uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes are essential.

The Unique Value of Personal Stories

What sets this tour apart is the narrative approach. Instead of just looking at relics, you’ll hear about Major Whittlesey’s men and their bravery during the 1918 battles. We loved the way the guide contextualized each site, making it easier to picture the soldiers’ daily lives and the brutal conditions they faced. One reviewer exclaimed that the guide was “extremely knowledgeable and familiar with the area,” and this personal touch makes all the difference.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour involves walking through outdoor terrain that can get muddy or wet, packing rain gear and suitable footwear is wise—be prepared for the elements. Remember, it’s a three-hour walk, so bring enough water and snacks to keep your energy up, as there are no stops for food or drinks along the way.

The tour includes lamps to help explore dark tunnels, but you should still expect some dirt and possibly wet conditions. It’s a good idea to wear clothing that can get dirty or muddy, especially if you’re interested in fully experiencing the trenches.

What Our Reviews Say

One reviewer from July 2019 shared that the tour “completely met our expectations and exceeded them,” praising the preparedness and knowledge of the guide. Another from October 2023 noted how much they appreciated the friendly staff and delicious food at the facility (though this might have been from a different aspect of the provider). These comments highlight the tour’s emphasis on professionalism and authentic storytelling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast eager to step into WWI trenches and tunnels, this tour will resonate deeply. Outdoor lovers who are prepared for uneven terrain and a bit of mud will find it rewarding. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy personal stories and detailed regimental histories—the kind of stories that make history feel alive.

This experience is not ideal for small children under five or for anyone with mobility issues, but it’s perfect for adventurous adults or teens with moderate fitness levels. If you want a truly immersive, personal, and authentic WWI experience, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This WWI walk through the trenches and bunkers in the Argonne Forest offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to feel the weight of history beneath your feet. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain insights that go beyond textbooks, understanding the soldiers’ experiences and the harsh realities of trench warfare.

The tour’s private setting makes it flexible and intimate, suitable for those eager to explore at their own pace. Its focus on authenticity and personal stories elevates it from a typical historical site visit, making it ideal for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and those wanting a deeper connection to the past.

While it requires a bit of effort—driving there, walking over uneven terrain—the experience is worth it for the chance to stand in the footsteps of soldiers and witness a significant chapter of history firsthand. If you’re prepared for some mud, some climbing, and a lot of stories, this tour offers a compelling and meaningful journey into WWI.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under five due to the uneven terrain and climbing involved. It’s better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable on their feet.

Do I need my own transportation?
Yes, since there’s no public transit to the Argonne Forest, you’ll need a car to reach the starting point at Église de Binarville.

How long is the tour?
The walking part lasts approximately three hours, including exploring trenches, tunnels, bunkers, and a German hospital.

What should I bring?
Bring rain gear, snacks, bottled water, and sturdy shoes. The guide provides lamps for tunnels, but expect dirt and possibly wet conditions.

Can the tour be adjusted for mobility?
The guide can modify the route to make it more paved and easier if requested, but some climbing and uneven terrain are unavoidable.

Is it suitable for a small group?
Yes, it’s a private tour for up to 15 people, ensuring a personal experience with fewer distractions.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book at least 16 days in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

This WWI tour in the Argonne Forest is a rare chance to walk through history and learn in a deeply personal way. Prepare yourself for an outdoor adventure that’s as educational as it is moving—an experience that will stay with you long after the walk ends.