If you haven’t thought about Harpers Ferry since grade school when you learned about John Brown’s uprising, this is your sign to plan a day trip to the West Virginia town. Situated where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, Harpers Ferry is equal parts open-air living history museum, scenic mountain town, and an adventure lover’s playground with a little something for everyone. Here’s what to do on your next trip.
Explore the National Historic Park
Harpers Ferry National Historic Park makes the town’s fascinating past feel so alive. The best way to take it all in is to explore the lower town, which is a living history museum of restored and recreated landmarks. Take your time moving in and out of the historic sites that tell the story of John Brown’s 1859 raid, the Civil War era, and the fight for civil rights. You can walk through Brown’s fort and other buildings, including a tavern, a school, and stores.
Wander Through Town
After you explore the lower town, make your way to the upper town, an area that bridges the centuries with old historic buildings and modern restaurants. Stop into The Rabbit Hole Gastro Pub for some elevated bar bites. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio, which is almost always crowded with a mix of day trippers, locals, and Appalachian Trail hikers refueling after a long day (or weeks) on the trail. After lunch stop by True Treats, a High Street shop with sells historic and vintage candies.
Go For a Hike
Harpers Ferry is steeped in history, and the town’s hiking trails are no exception. You can reach the Maryland Heights Trailhead from town, and the 6.5-mile moderately strenuous trail will reward you with history markers and sweeping views. During the Civil War, it was along what is now the trail that the Union Army made its camp after the Battle of Antietam. Old stone foundations of their fortifications are visible along the trail. The soldiers even lugged cannons up the hill. Think of that when your hiking backpack starts to feel heavy! There are outlooks along the route with panoramic views of Harpers Ferry and of the confluence of the Potomac and the Shenandoah rivers. If you’re lucky, you might see a coal trail pass by.
Peddle the Towpath
The C&O Canal Towpath runs through Harpers Ferry and pedaling a few miles on this scenic stretch is a great addition to a day trip itinerary. Bring your own bike or rent an e-bike rentals from Harpers Ferry Bikes. The towpath has an accessible walking path for those looking to stretch their legs without a hiking climb.
Float Down the River
Summer might be ending but we all know the heat and humidity aren’t going anywhere quickly. Take advantage of slimmer down crowds and join fellow tubers in a float down Harpers Ferry’s two rivers. River Riders and River & Trail Outfitters both offer options for tubing (leisurely or fast) on the Shenandoah and the Potomac. They also offer white water rafting excursions.
Enjoy a Little Wine
As you are heading back to NoVA, you may want to stop in Loudoun County and have a glass of wine. Walsh Family Wine is about 20 minutes south of Harpers Ferry. The vineyard is one of 22 in Northern Virginia to have claimed a gold medal in the prestigious Virginia Governor’s Cup Awards for 2024. The winery won for its 2021 Paeonia in 2024 and for its 2021 Bethany Ridge Chenin Blanc in 2023. In 2022, four of its wines picked up silver medals: 2019 Bethany Ridge Tannat, 2019 Russ Mountain Merlot, 2019 Twin Notch, and the 2020 Viognier.
Feature image courtesy West Virginia Department of Tourism
For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine’s Travel newsletter.
