Visitors to Valley Forge National Historical Park now have a new way to enjoy the area: the park is experimenting with a free shuttle around the park through the end of August.

The park has been facing the same challenges plaguing many similar sites: traffic congestion, noise, and pollution from vehicles can make a visit more frustrating than fun. If you're visiting the park between now and the end of August, you can enjoy the benefits of an experimental solution: a free shuttle.

Visitors can park their cars and step on board The Revolutionary Shuttle. The six-mile loop runs throughout most of the park, and riders can hop on or off at any of nine stops, including the Welcome Center and Washington’s Headquarters.

The colorful shuttles, wrapped with images of Continental soldiers, will stop every 15 to 20 minutes, so visitors can take their time at any destination without worrying about meeting a schedule. The shuttles carry bike racks, so visitors can combine a bike tour with an easy ride. Partially fueled by bio-diesel, the shuttles will reduce congestion, noise, and emissions in the heart of the park.

This year’s shuttle service is an experiment. Park staff will be on hand to reach out to visitors to find out what they do and don’t like about the service, and will tweak it throughout the summer to find the best fit.

You'll find a map of the shuttle route along with a basic schedule and other details on the park website.

“The Revolutionary Shuttle is a great new addition to the growing menu of visitor services at Valley Forge,” said park superintendent Mike Caldwell. “We’re launching the shuttle as a summer pilot program. If visitors are enthusiastic we’ll expand it next year.”

The Revolutionary Shuttle is the latest in a variety of fun, convenient ways to see the park. The popular 90-minute guided Trolley Tour already is running. Trolley Tour riders hear the full story of the Valley Forge Encampment and enjoy the expertise of a professional guide on an open-air trolley, with extended guided stops at Washington’s Headquarters and Muhlenberg’s Brigade.

The shuttle is made possible through National Park Service Alternative Transportation Funds and a grant from the Ford Motor Company through the National Park Foundation. Greater Valley Forge Transportation is providing management services.

Visitors also can walk, bike or hike on some of the park’s 26 miles of trails. Bike rentals are also available at the Lower Welcome Center parking lot.

The park website includes directions to the park and other information to help you plan a visit.