Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a unique combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and opportunities for active recreation.
Situated at the junction of three states – West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland, at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, it has one of the most spectacular landscapes at the foot of the city of Harpers Ferry and its historic Lower Town, which played an important role as an industrial center in the 19th century.
After leaving your car in the park parking lot, you can use the free shuttle bus to move to the historic Lower Town and the starting point of 20-mile hiking trails: Maryland Heights, Loudoun Heights, Lower Town Loop, Murphy-Chambers, and others.
Arriving early in the morning, you can start from Maryland Heights. You can get to it using the Winchester and Potomac Railroad Bridge. It has a large observation deck and offers a wonderful view of the city of Harpers Ferry, St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, and the B&O Railroad Bridge.
The Maryland Heights trail is not easy, and you will have to make several stops, especially in the summer heat. Once you reach the observation deck, you can take great photos, rest, and have a snack. As you descend towards the city and explore the area, you will see historical ruins and fields from the Civil War.
Pay attention to Lockwood House – the former treasurer’s building of the armory, later headquarters, and a hospital. Also, Storer College, which, after the war, in 1867, was one of the first higher schools in the United States to teach freed African Americans.
In the city, you can also visit a souvenir shop, John Brown’s Fort, John Brown Museum, and one of the cozy restaurants for lunch.
Be sure to visit St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, built in 1833, and the Jefferson Rock observation deck, from which Thomas Jefferson admired the view of the confluence of the rivers.
Another unique opportunity that attracts tourists with children is the ranger programs, which offer master classes in 19th-century crafts (cooking, blacksmithing, repair), historical reconstructions, and themed hikes.
Rangers are employees of the US National Park Service (NPS). They conduct interesting excursions and costumed reconstructions, telling wonderful stories related to John Brown, the industrial era, and the Civil War. They also explain geology, flora, fauna, and local animals.
If you are traveling with children, check out the Junior Ranger program, which is designed for the development of children. They will be able to have fun completing various tasks. These can be crosswords, object searches, or participation in mini-experiments. For completing tasks, the child can receive a “Junior Ranger” badge.
When planning a visit, also look at the calendar of events and announcements of seasonal events. These could be summer Campfire Stories, historical festivals (such as the anniversary of John Brown’s raid), or 19th-century-style Fourth of July celebrations.
Once you’ve explored the trails and elevations, you won’t get bored. Group bike trails and river trips by canoe, kayak, and tube are available.
