Things To Do Near Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Set against the stunning natural backdrop of the Shenandoah Valley, Harper's Ferry National Historical Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time. Hiking trails treat visitors to both breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Civil War cannons. The historic town of Harpers Ferry stands at the heart of it all, offering a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and museums to explore.
Hiking Trails
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Murphy-Chambers Farm Trail
The Murphy-Chambers Farm Trail is a looping trail that extends for roughly 3 miles. Visitors can walk about a mile in to enjoy an awe-inspiring view of the Shenandoah River flowing through the valley. More ambitious hikers can continue onto the extended portion of the trail where Civil War cannons and earthworks still dot the landscape.
Location
171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
Length
3 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Bolivar Heights Trail
The Bolivar Heights Trail offers visitors a stunning combination of history and nature. An easy third of a mile into the loop, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hikers who chose to continue along the trail beyond the overlook will find themselves following a wooded path toward another stunning view at Schoolhouse Ridge.
Location
Whitman Ave, Bolivar, WV 25425
Length
2.4 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Loudon Heights Trail
The Loudon Heights Trail is a looping trail that provides adventurous hikers with a 7.5-mile challenging trek. Visitors who tackle the hike are rewarded with stunning views of the Shenandoah and Potomac River Valleys.
Location
Potomack Canal, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
Length
7.5 miles
Intensity
Strenuous
Sightseeing
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Antietam National Battlefield
The Antietam National Battlefield commemorates the bloodiest day in American history. On September 17, 1862, General Lee led his Army of Northern Virginia in a battle against General McClellan's Army of the Potomac. The battle lasted nearly 12 vicious hours. After the guns fell silent, there were 23,000 missing, wounded, or dead American soldiers. The battlefield offers self-guided tours of the area, as well as battlefield walks with park rangers. Guided driving tours are also available, making it a perfect choice for those who can't make the hike.
Location
302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782
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Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Stretching across 2,193.1 miles and 14 states, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail is the longest hiking-only trail in the world. Built by private citizens, the Appalachian Trail completed construction in 1937. The Appalachian Trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day, but it's important to note that weather conditions might make certain sections of the trail impassable at times. Visitors are encouraged to check for local trail conditions before setting out on a hike.
Location
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
Museums
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Pry House Field Hospital Museum
The Pry House Field Hospital Museum can be found in the Antietam National Battlefield. In September of 1862, the Union Army of the Potomac commandeered the home, intending to use it as a base of operations during the Battle of Antietam. Built on a hill, the home and surrounding grounds afforded a much better view of the battlefield than the official Army headquarters in Harpers Ferry. The Pry House provided a perfect vantage from which General McClellan could monitor the movements of enemy troops. The museum is sponsored by the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, and it offers visitors a glimpse at the harsh realities of caring for the wounded during the Civil War.
Location
18906 Shepherdstown Pike, Keedysville, MD 21756
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John Brown Wax Museum
A visit to the John Brown Wax Museum provides a great way to learn the details of John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry. The museum hosts 87 life-size wax figures to help bring the story of the abolitionist raid at Harpers Ferry to vivid life.
Location
168 High St., Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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The Anvil Restaurant
The Anvil Restaurant is a popular local eatery best known for its seafood selections, but they also offer traditional American fare. If you are not looking for a meal, stop by their bar for happy hour and maybe try your luck at some video gaming.
Location
1290 W. Washington Street, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
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The Country Cafe
The Country Cafe is a quaint and casual spot that serves home-cooked meals at reasonable prices. If you stop by for breakfast, don't forget to try their made-to-order donuts.
Location
1723 W. Washington Street, Harpers Ferry, WV
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Harpers Ferry Park Association Bookshop
The Harpers Ferry Park Associate Bookshop stocks a large variety of books about the history of the area. You can also peruse their fine selection of art, gifts, postcards, and more.
Location
723 Shenandoah St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425