Harpers Ferry

History of Harpers Ferry

This town is known as the site of John Brown's raid in October 1859. John Brown grew up in an anti-slavery family in Connecticut. He went to an abolitionist meeting in 1837 which set his sights on abolishing slavery. He led the raid at Harpers Ferry against federal troops and won. Unfortunately the next day General Lee's army surrounded the land. Brown was tried, found guilty, and later hanged on December 2, 1859. This raid fueled tensions leading up to the presidential election and later the Civil War. Currently, the town is just about the mid-way point for the Appalachian Trail; hiking is one of its main attractions along with adventuring through the small historic town.

Maryland Heights Trail

The Maryland Heights Trail was created after the Battle of Antietam to be used as a built-in fort and overlook of Harpers Ferry for the Union troops as protection. It now is one of my all-favorite trails to hike in Maryland! It has a steep incline for over 2 miles, but not to worry as you will be on the downhill slope on the way back.

Parking at Harpers Ferry

The National Park Service recommends you park at the Visitor Center and take the shuttle bus to the Lower Town. Address to the Visitor Center: 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. We found parking at the train station in the Lower Town, but spaces are limited. Address to the train station: Harpers Ferry Station, Potomac St &, Shenandoah St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425.