A Hiker’s Guide to the Appalachian Trail: Best Hikes in Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

At about halfway through the 2,190 miles of the Appalachian Trail lies the historically rich and scenic town of Harpers Ferry, WV. Its 19th century architecture and mountainous terrain speaks to the Civil War history it contains, nestled between the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. Hiking trails along the AT span either side of the town, offering a range of difficulty levels and an Appalachian Trail Visitor Center. You may pass some of the many thru-hikers that pass through and take refuge in the town to resupply. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or not, this national park is ideal for getting a taste of what the Appalachian Trail has to offer; Harpers Ferry’s hikes are noted for amazing views worth the effort to reach the overlooks. Each of the hikes listed below could be done in a day, so head over for a day of exercise and stunning views with the best hikes in Harpers Ferry.

Maryland Heights Trail

Options for starting the trail:

• Start from the information center in Harpers Ferry Lower Town. This out and back version totals 4.5 miles.
• A blue-blazed path off the trail leads to the Stone Fort and forms a loop back to the main trail. This lengthens the hike to a total of about 6.5 miles.
• If you’re already following along the C&O Canal path, a slightly shorter version of the trail can be found from the trailhead off Sandy Hook Rd.

Rated as moderate to hard, this hike gradually climbs at first and then becomes quite steep. For the sake of exercise and views it’s well worth it. Maryland Heights remarkably reaches an elevation gain of 1200 ft+. Though you will definitely feel the burn going up, you’re rewarded with a short descent to the overlook. This does mean you’ll have a bit of a climb from the main overlook, but keep in mind it’s downhill the rest of the trail back. The peak of the trail allows you to sit out on the rocky plane, offering a vantage point of the train station and intersecting rivers adjacent to the town. At the height you’ve accomplished it feels like you’re standing over the river. Look out over the entire town of Harpers Ferry and rest your legs; this could be an ideal place to eat a packed lunch.

Loudoun Heights Trail

Options for starting the trail:

• Start from the Visitor Center located off of Route 340, past the river access parking lot. Follow the Visitor Center to Lower Town trail; it crosses the bridge over the Shenandoah River.
• If you want a longer version of the hike, start from Lower Town and follow the AT, or the Virginius and Hall’s Islands trails, along the Shenandoah River.
• For a shortened version of the hike, start from the river access parking lot off the intersection of Route 340 and Shenandoah St.

The longest version of the hike is 7.5 miles, rated as one of the more strenuous hikes in the park. Though it is a bit longer, you get to see many different sides of the AT. There are various overlooks along the way, including sights of Harpers Ferry town, both the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, and unique views of Pleasant Valley. Cross the bridge across the highway, go down the stairs, and follow the orange and blue trails to the most scenic overlook via Split Rock. On this hike you circle Harpers Ferry town on the opposite side of the river, towards the borders of VA, WV, and MD. You’ll have many opportunities for pictures!

AT to Jefferson Rock to Harpers Ferry Lower Town Trail

Options for starting the trail:

• Start at the river access parking lot. The trail is tucked into the side of the hill across the road.
• Start from Lower Town, following the stone steps to the Camp Hill and AT trail.

At less than 2 miles, this out and back trail is situated between Lower Town and the Shenandoah River bridge as a sample of the AT. In either direction you choose to take, there is a bit of an initial incline to get your blood pumping. Starting from the Lower Town you will quickly come upon offshoots to see Harper Cemetery, Lockwood House, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Visitor Center. On the opposite side from the river access, the trail follows along the treeline of the AT moving up and down repeatedly. For a relatively easy and short trail, this hike provides beautiful views of the mountains and valleys. The proximity to the water showcases the rockiness of the Shenandoah River. As the most notable feature along this trail, Jefferson rock displays a unique rock configuration designated as a landmark in 1783. If you have the time, stop in the town of Harpers Ferry to walk around and grab some ice cream before heading back.

Murphy-Chambers Farm Trail

Options to start the trail:

• Start at the visitor center, pass a creek, and follow either the road or wooded trail to the overlook.
• Start at the farm’s parking area; the overlook is only about one mile from here.

The Murphy-Chambers Farm trail has been regarded as a pleasant stroll through nature, with a good deal of historical significance. It’s known as one of the locations of the John Brown Fort of 1895, now recognized as a symbol of freedom. Views of the Shenandoah River are abundant along this loop trail of almost 3 miles, as well. You will pass canons in a field and the Murphy-Chambers house after two river views. Continuing on, there are more prospects of the river, and then the trail loops back to the farm. To add some distance to your hike, you can take a little out and back offshoot across a footbridge to a creek. Go on this hike for an easier, shorter trail with some good views and to learn a little Civil War history on the way. If you’re a history buff or are interested in learning more, stop by the Schoolhouse Ridge North and South trails for a full immersion in the events of the Civil War.

Weverton Cliffs Trail

Options for starting the trail:

• Start at the Weverton Cliffs parking lot. Follow Route 340 over the bridge which crosses the Potomac River into MD; the parking lot is off of Weverton Cliff Road.
• Start the hike from the C&O Canal, or follow the AT from the town of Weverton.

This hike is actually in South Mountain State Park, but it is definitely worth mentioning since it’s just a few minutes outside of Harpers Ferry. As it is a trend with hikes in this area, the trailhead is tucked into the hill by the road, to the right of the parking lot. About 2 miles out and back, the hike contains winding switchbacks up the mountain. The combination of steep and level portions designates the trail as moderate. Ascension to the cliffs has a decent elevation gain of almost 600 ft, for an impressive overlook to the Potomac River. Weverton Cliffs is a good option to avoid the crowds that are typical of the Maryland and Loudoun Heights trails, offering a similar overlook and quiet moment to admire the natural landscape.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park hours:

• all trails are open during daylight, closed sunset to sunrise
• for AT thru-hikers trails are always open