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Top Hiking areas in Harpers Ferry, United States
Top Rated Hiking areas in Harpers Ferry
Top Reviewed Hiking areas in Harpers Ferry
Appalachian Trail Staircase
Connector Trail from AT to Appalachian Trail Visitor Center
Loudoun Heights Overlook
Maryland Heights
Shannondale Appalachian Trail Access
Schoolhouse Ridge North
Reviews
The hike certainly is challenging if you don't pace yourself. Despite the time of day and year I went it still had plenty of people also trekking up and down the trail. Follow the path and you'll get to the scenic overlook that waits at the end. It's a great view. I can only imagine how it would look in the fall.
For those hiking up with pets, two things worth mentioning:
1. Once the trail opens up to the overlook be sure your dog is able to listen to your commands as it is a cliff and any pulling and tugging may cause you to lose balance...not necessarily to fall to your end but because it's no longer a path but rather stones and rocks on a hill you can easily lose your balance.
2. I'm not sure if it's the locals or those visiting but the majority of dog owners there have POORLY TRAINED dogs. 90 percent of the dogs there start aggressively barking and lunging as soon as they see each other or when they saw my dog and I walking up. Didn't matter what breed. There were huskies, black labs, australian shepherds, dobbermans. All which are wonderful breeds that are obedient when trained well, but it was clear all these owners had no control over their dogs... so be relatively cautious if you take your dog on the hike up with you.
For those hiking up with pets, two things worth mentioning:
1. Once the trail opens up to the overlook be sure your dog is able to listen to your commands as it is a cliff and any pulling and tugging may cause you to lose balance...not necessarily to fall to your end but because it's no longer a path but rather stones and rocks on a hill you can easily lose your balance.
2. I'm not sure if it's the locals or those visiting but the majority of dog owners there have POORLY TRAINED dogs. 90 percent of the dogs there start aggressively barking and lunging as soon as they see each other or when they saw my dog and I walking up. Didn't matter what breed. There were huskies, black labs, australian shepherds, dobbermans. All which are wonderful breeds that are obedient when trained well, but it was clear all these owners had no control over their dogs... so be relatively cautious if you take your dog on the hike up with you.
A breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The two hiking trails are well-maintained, providing both a rewarding challenge and a peaceful journey.
The historical significance of the area adds depth to the experience.
A must-visit for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The two hiking trails are well-maintained, providing both a rewarding challenge and a peaceful journey.
The historical significance of the area adds depth to the experience.
A must-visit for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Trail is about 5 miles total to the top and back to Harpers Ferry not very difficult. Plan to go on a day when the weather calls for clear sky so you can have better visibility at the overlook.
You can check out the old sign there to see how Harpers Ferry had change over the decades. The view is definitely worth the hike.
You can check out the old sign there to see how Harpers Ferry had change over the decades. The view is definitely worth the hike.
90-minute loop — if you’re superfit. Lol. 3/4 of the way to the overlook is uphill climb. Last 1/4 was downhill. Took me around 2.5 hours to get to the overlook ; and 163bpm. Overlook never fails to amaze me. Worth it.
The trail was good but parking was very limited. Make sure you have a backup
Great hike! Takes about 45 mins up to the lookout and 40 mins back. If you're not used to walking at such an incline your legs WILL hurt the next day, but the views will be worth it ;)
It is a long hike. A lot of the areas are long steep uphill hiking parts. The last bit is a rocky downhill path.
But when you get to the end, there are beautiful views of the Harper's Ferry areas. These views made it all worth it.
Please be careful, take plenty of rest breaks, and have plenty of water to stay hydrated and healthy snacks.
But when you get to the end, there are beautiful views of the Harper's Ferry areas. These views made it all worth it.
Please be careful, take plenty of rest breaks, and have plenty of water to stay hydrated and healthy snacks.
This was an intriguing climb for me with awe-inspiring views from the hills over the shops and streets below to see the rivers in the far distance. The stairs are steep, but even the most inexperienced climber can walk up the stairs with relative ease - just pace yourself.
Amazing views of Harpers Ferry! A moderately strenuous hike with some elevation gain but definitely worth the effort.
The hike to the top of Maryland heights is a little strenuous due to the elevation. But the view is worth it at the end.
It does getting crowded during the afternoon. I like to hike in the morning as it’s a little cooler and less crowded. The view at the top is amazing.
It does getting crowded during the afternoon. I like to hike in the morning as it’s a little cooler and less crowded. The view at the top is amazing.
Very weird shaped staircase, but it was made by drunk soldiers so that kinda explains it
Nice weekend getaway in the dmv area.
The Maryland heights trail is in a loop shape, along the trail you go up and downs, but the destination overlook allows you to have a bird view of the town and natural landscapes.
Pet friendly, but the free shuttle bus doesn’t allow dog to be onboard, which is a bummer. If you park at the Harpers Ferry National Park visitor parking, there’s roughly 2-3miles of walk before you arrive the entrance to the Maryland heights trail.
The Maryland heights trail is in a loop shape, along the trail you go up and downs, but the destination overlook allows you to have a bird view of the town and natural landscapes.
Pet friendly, but the free shuttle bus doesn’t allow dog to be onboard, which is a bummer. If you park at the Harpers Ferry National Park visitor parking, there’s roughly 2-3miles of walk before you arrive the entrance to the Maryland heights trail.
Part of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Not much shade on this battlefield walk to the Confederate cannon battery, so recommended in fall, winter, and spring. The ridge is a moderate to easy hike to get to the cannon battery. Walking and dog walking on a leash are popular on the trail. Birdwatching opportunities in the fields. Once at the cannon battery one can look across the road and see the woods of Bolivar Heights where the Union Cannon battery was in place defending Harpers Ferry. If a longer hike is desired one could add the trails on Lower and Upper Bolivar Heights which start across the street from the School Ridge North Parking area.
Once having reached the top of the steps, climbers are offered a wonderful view of the historic town down below. The staircase is quite lengthy as it leads to numerous historic sites and an entry point to the Appalachian Trail. The steps aren't as steep as some claim, with the difficulty of the climb itself being fairly low.
As part of the Appalachian Trail, this portion is accessible either from Rt. 340 or from historical Harpers Ferry. If visiting downtown and wanting a short hiking experience with a few worthwhile historical sites, the Connector Trail is more than ideal. Along this short path, the town church, cemetery, historical church ruins, and Jefferson Rock attraction will be passed.
Generally, this path is accommodating to novice hikers. The path itself is narrow with some moments of steep elevation. It should also be said that some specific spots require climbing more so than stepping, such as utilizing large rocks to move forward.
Generally, this path is accommodating to novice hikers. The path itself is narrow with some moments of steep elevation. It should also be said that some specific spots require climbing more so than stepping, such as utilizing large rocks to move forward.
Very historical with little small houses all full of stories. Enjoyed my time here and will definitely be coming back
Even pretty in the winter! Also got to see a train go over the bridge and through the tunnel witch was nice. Some steep climbs time to time on the way up but worth it!
A lovely place with many outdoors activities to explore.
I use this location to get to Buzzard Rocks, which is a great overlook on the Appalachian Trail. Once you park, you follow the path for about 5 minutes. The path will turn to a T. You turn left and walk for about a half hour. It is a straight, relatively flat path. It gets steep towards the end but that is because you are going up to get to the view. Once you climb the rock stairs, on the left should be a sign on a tree saying Buzzard Rocks. Turn left and climb up the hill. The path splits until a Y. The right has a decent view but is very rocky, the left takes you down a path with big boulders you have to cross. Keep going and it will open up into a big, beautiful overlook.
Very scenic! Nice Stop!
The trail is in excellent shape.
Thanks to all of the volunteers who have kept it up!
I was disappointed that the view I've loved for over 55 years, is no longer visible from Buzzard's Rock -- near Harpers Ferry, above Shannondale Springs area.
The trees have overgrown to a height which obscures 90% of the Shenandoah Valley below.
Can't blame NATURE, can I?
The outcropping of rocks is still a wonderful place to stop, and watch the buzzards, as they watch you
Please be aware of rattlesnakes among the rocks.
I've come face-to-face with TWO of them, sunning themselves in the nooks and crannies of these boulders.
None seen this time, but always vigilant.
BTW, experiencing their "rattle" is awesome, nonetheless.
I experienced something that I can only describe as "a primal response".
From 24" away, I didn't so much "hear it", but "FELT IT"!
It was like having a dozen Cicadas, all making their noise at once -- on the BACK OF MY NECK! 😳
Unbelievable.
But please, don't attempt to find out yourself.
I'm just lucky he remained all coiled up, and let me off with a warning, that "unseasonably warm February day" when we met -- otherwise, you wouldn't be reading this 🤨
Thanks to all of the volunteers who have kept it up!
I was disappointed that the view I've loved for over 55 years, is no longer visible from Buzzard's Rock -- near Harpers Ferry, above Shannondale Springs area.
The trees have overgrown to a height which obscures 90% of the Shenandoah Valley below.
Can't blame NATURE, can I?
The outcropping of rocks is still a wonderful place to stop, and watch the buzzards, as they watch you
Please be aware of rattlesnakes among the rocks.
I've come face-to-face with TWO of them, sunning themselves in the nooks and crannies of these boulders.
None seen this time, but always vigilant.
BTW, experiencing their "rattle" is awesome, nonetheless.
I experienced something that I can only describe as "a primal response".
From 24" away, I didn't so much "hear it", but "FELT IT"!
It was like having a dozen Cicadas, all making their noise at once -- on the BACK OF MY NECK! 😳
Unbelievable.
But please, don't attempt to find out yourself.
I'm just lucky he remained all coiled up, and let me off with a warning, that "unseasonably warm February day" when we met -- otherwise, you wouldn't be reading this 🤨
Not recommended as AT access point.
Awesome place to get out in nature and just relax and BREATHE!
Currently (5/18/2022) only one way up to the overlook from the Shenandoah River side of the Appalachian (white) Trail. Didn't see any orange blazes. Just follow the blue at the first intersection.
There are two smaller overlooks to the left as you are heading up that are not marked. They are worth a visit.
Slightly less strenuous than Maryland Heights trail, but still pretty steep at some parts. There are flatter moments as well.
There are two smaller overlooks to the left as you are heading up that are not marked. They are worth a visit.
Slightly less strenuous than Maryland Heights trail, but still pretty steep at some parts. There are flatter moments as well.
as it was noted by another reviewer - it's no parking there, but also note that the "road" is in such a condition that access requires proper SUV, so unless you have one - do not attempt
All my friends said these were too steep. Not too bad haha. Nice trail.
Nice shortcut. Very steep with the little ones.
No parking here, but if you live in Shannondale, you can walk to this access point, or get a ride. Consider an Appalachian Trail shuttle. Very easy access to the Appalachian Trail. This former road used to carry US Presidents to the Shannondale resort.
Seriously one of the most beautiful places to visit if ur looking for outdoor fun. Lots of shade...easy to see trails...markers all along the way... little beaches thruout thr trail...to get into the water awhile n cool off... qnd lots of historical landmarks with plaques to explain the scenery or surroundings. Beautiful all the way around. And hotels near by within walking distance... as well as downtown old harpers ferry for touring and shopping and eating. I grew up here and have been going my whole life. I highly recommend if ur looking for a days or weekend hike with the family... or get away with ur sig other... or by urskef... either way it's a win.
Amazing views! Moderate hike with steep incline most of the way up.
Harpers Ferry WV is a very Beautiful place to visit. A lot of history. All kind of places to stay and do. River Riders has camp sites, RV sites, Hotel,Zip Line, Rafting, Tubing.
This short, uphill trail is well marked. It is out in the open, offering ample views of the battlefield and of the Blue Ridge. Plenty of signs that explain events that took place here in 1862. Park at the bottom.
Please keep your DOGS ON LEASH. (Visitor center was closed 6/14, had to park outside)
Yesterday after long trek, I was sitting on a rock at the overlook & i felt a something next to my ear. It was large dog without a leash. The dog was walking around with owners just relaxing. This is not OK even in non-COVID times, wonder a startled child/person loose balance and fall from 100s of feet up.
The views from the overlook is worth the ~10 mile trek (round trip).
Yesterday after long trek, I was sitting on a rock at the overlook & i felt a something next to my ear. It was large dog without a leash. The dog was walking around with owners just relaxing. This is not OK even in non-COVID times, wonder a startled child/person loose balance and fall from 100s of feet up.
The views from the overlook is worth the ~10 mile trek (round trip).
Beatiful views at overlook. I parked at public parking and walked over bridge. Paid 15 bucks put in envolope. The first few miles are the toughest in the trail. Lots of uphill climb. It's about 8 miles if parked at lot. It's pretty well marked except at a crucial point where you need to turn left at orange trail. You used to be able to stay on Appalachian trail (white) and make it a loop. So turn left at orange trail which leads to blue trail to overlooks and split rocks. The overlooks are easy to miss so lookout for them. The split rocks at the end of Loudoun Heights trail are the best of the overlooks but the others are worthwhile. Might have to go slightly off trail to get best view. It was colder and windier so bring extra layers if hike in winter.
Great hike with a great payoff. Make sure to follow the ORANGE markers at the first split in the trail (about the halfway point). Also there's a challenging climb, compared to the rest of the hike, near the 3/4 mark right by the power lines. A steep 20-30 yd section. Nothing that will require your hands to stabilize, but enough to get the heart rate going and legs burning. Closest parking is right off of William Wilson Fwy next to the Halls Island marker in Google Maps. Make your way back up to the bridge to see the trail head marker.
Great trail for the any family member to walk. Trail is well marked and well taken care and has some of the best views around.
Well kept and worth the hike! Beautiful and stunning vistas.
A relaxing morning hike with an educational perspective. Short enough for older visitors of which I saw several. A few photo opportunities with the cannons and such. In the fall the trail isn't as clearly marked as it could be but an observent person can make it to the ridge.
Found this trail as I was hiking on the AT back to my car. The Potomac Heritage Trail branches off the AT going to the left downhill. Alternate route down to the road. Steep, with loose gravel. Wear sturdy footwear...and hiking poles helpful!
Great bike trail no resupply bring fiod and non iodine well water thats provided
A little bit of man made and a whole lot of nature. The climb gets ur heart rate going.
Largely undisturbed Civil War view of Jackson's advance and Harper's Ferry garrison force who challenged it September 14-15/1862. Confederates launched a night assault against the Union skirmish line here.
Started to walk to Maine but gave up lol... A very historical place to visit
A hidden spur from the AT along stone steps to upper town.. the trail goes to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and in the second direction also a great way to down the shoreline along the Shenandoah.
Great hike and beautiful views. It cuts in to the Appalachian Trail. Not a very busy hike it can be a bit of a hike if your not use to hiking. About a 6 and half mile hike. It’s a great day hike. You get a little different view of the town then maryland heights.
Beautiful walk up to the church and Jefferson rock