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The Best Visitor's Guide to Harpers Ferry

Charles Town is just a few miles away from one of the most iconic historical landmarks in the United States! Just a 10-minute drive away lies Harpers Ferry, known for its connection to the Founding Fathers and role in the Civil War.

In this guide, we'll cover some of the hikes, historical sites, and adventurous attractions you can enjoy when you come to one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Best Hikes

Discover some interesting hikes with some gorgeous natural panoramic views and some historical landmarks! Whether you have small kids or you're a skilled trailblazer, there's a path for everyone to follow!

Appalachian Trail Loop

Length: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

This adorable little loop has stunning scenery that once inspired Thomas Jefferson to say: "This scene is worth a voyage across the Atlantic." Check out Jefferson Rock and breathe in the sea of trees.

Virginius Island Trail

Length: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy

Interested in a historical walk? Bring your family to this easy trail where you can see ruins and artifacts from some of America's historical periods.

Best Hikes

Discover some interesting hikes with some gorgeous natural panoramic views and some historical landmarks! Whether you have small kids or you're a skilled trailblazer, there's a path for everyone to follow!

Appalachian Trail Loop

Length: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

This adorable little loop has stunning scenery that once inspired Thomas Jefferson to say: "This scene is worth a voyage across the Atlantic." Check out Jefferson Rock and breathe in the sea of trees.

Virginius Island Trail

Length: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy

Interested in a historical walk? Bring your family to this easy trail where you can see ruins and artifacts from some of America's historical periods.
Image may be subject to copyright

Maryland Heights Loop

Length: 6.6 miles
Difficulty: Hard

This long hike will take you through the upper part of Harpers Ferry National Park. You'll see the remnants of the Union army's base camps from before their defeat.

Loudon Heights Trail to Split Rock

Length: 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Those who are interested in hiking to the south are in for a nature hike unlike any other. You'll spot gorgeous expanses of the rivers, quartzite rock formations, and you can take a peek at Pleasant Valley.

Maryland Heights Loop

Length: 6.6 miles
Difficulty: Hard

This long hike will take you through the upper part of Harpers Ferry National Park. You'll see the remnants of the Union army's base camps from before their defeat.

Loudon Heights Trail to Split Rock

Length: 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Those who are interested in hiking to the south are in for a nature hike unlike any other. You'll spot gorgeous expanses of the rivers, quartzite rock formations, and you can take a peek at Pleasant Valley.
Image may be subject to copyright

Harpers Ferry Canopy Tours

For guests with a heart that seeks after adventure, the canopy tours in Harpers Ferry are the place to be! River Riders allows you to take up a harness and cruise down a 1000 foot zipline course running alongside the Potomac River!

Alternatively, you can also go to the adventure park for smaller zipline rides, but with more riding opportunities.

If you're interested in one of these life-changing zipline rides, click the button below for more information!

Harpers Ferry Canopy Tours

For guests with a heart that seeks after adventure, the canopy tours in Harpers Ferry are the place to be! River Riders allows you to take up a harness and cruise down a 1000 foot zipline course running alongside the Potomac River!

Alternatively, you can also go to the adventure park for smaller zipline rides, but with more riding opportunities.

If you're interested in one of these life-changing zipline rides, click the button below for more information!

Water Sports on the River

Don't want to ride above the river? How about inside of it? These water activities will leave you beaming.

River Riders

Rafting, tubing, and canoeing are all incredibly popular along the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. At this rental place, you can go on a guided ride, or just take out your rentals for some wonderful memories on the water.

Shenandoah River Tubing

Few things are as relaxing as cruising down the river on a tube. These tour guides are a ton of fun for families with older kids. Nobody under the age of 6 is allowed on this equipment. Sorry kids!

Historical Sites in Harpers Ferry

These are the most notable historical sites in the downtown area. Taking a short stroll or drive through the town will show off some of these cool buildings. Keep your eyes peeled for them!

John Brown's Fort

Built as the armory's fire engine and guard house, this small fort has a complex history that you can learn about on your visit.

John Brown Museum

Learn about the raid on Harpers Ferry at this quaint museum. You'll experience interactive exhibits and get to watch a film about this historical figure.

Lockwood House

This is a prominent building in town that had several roles during the Civil War. It was originally a home, but was converted into a hospital for the Union soldiers.

Historical Sites in Harpers Ferry

These are the most notable historical sites in the downtown area. Taking a short stroll or drive through the town will show off some of these cool buildings. Keep your eyes peeled for them!

John Brown's Fort

Built as the armory's fire engine and guard house, this small fort has a complex history that you can learn about on your visit.

John Brown Museum

Learn about the raid on Harpers Ferry at this quaint museum. You'll experience interactive exhibits and get to watch a film about this historical figure.

Lockwood House

This is a prominent building in town that had several roles during the Civil War. It was originally a home, but was converted into a hospital for the Union soldiers.

Harpers Ferry has something for everyone! History, thrills, and places for family memories! Don't miss out on this national park.

Book at the Carriage Inn in Charles Town today!