About the Appalachian Trail in Harpers Ferry
With so much outdoor fun in Harpers Ferry, why not hike along the Appalachian Trail? The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) is a 2,100+ mile long public trail along the Appalachian Mountains spanning from Georgia to Maine. Harpers Ferry is considered a general halfway mark on the trail and you can access it in Lower Town for either a short walk or continue hiking toward Maine to the north or Georgia to the south.
While the Appalachian Trail remains open throughout the year, some sections might have temporary closures. For example, the northern terminus at Mount Katahdin in Maine, located in Baxter State Park, may close during the winter due to weather conditions. Other trail segments or access roads could also be temporarily closed for maintenance or environmental reasons, but overall, the trail stays accessible for hiking. Keep in mind that Appalachian Trail, while generally is always open, the trails in Harpers Ferry National Park are open from sunrise to sunset.
Parking, Location, and Amenities
Once you’ve arrived in Harpers Ferry, it’s easiest to park your car at the Harpers Ferry National Park Visitor Center located at 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. An entrance fee is required to park in the National Park. From here, take the free shuttle bus, which drops you off in Lower Town Harpers Ferry. You can start your hike at the Lower Town Harpers Ferry Information Center. GPS location: 39.32265726753439, -77.73002464345997. Restrooms and drinking water are located near the Information Center in Lower Town and at area restaurants.
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Getting to Camp Hill and the Appalachian Trail in Harpers Ferry
Access the Camp Hill and Appalachian Trail from the Lower Town Information Center and cross Shenandoah Street toward High Street, and then on the left, you’ll travel up the shale steps toward Jefferson Rock, Harper Cemetery, and the Lockwood House.
Here you can choose from three trails:
- Continue along the Appalachian Trail southward
- On the left, take Cliff Trail that brings you back to Lower Town or
- Choose a path to the right to the former Storer College and Camp Hill, and then continue to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Visitor Center.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), is a national not-for-profit corporation and its visitor center is located here in Harpers Ferry. At the ATC Visitor Center, you can get more information about the Appalachian Trail from knowledgeable staff and you’d like to plan a longer hike. After your visit of the ATC Visitor Center, you can either return on the trail back to Lower Town, or follow Washington St. eastward through town to return to Lower Town.
This trail caters to a wide range of hikers. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a family looking for a day hike, there’s a path for you. See our Beginner’s Guide to Hiking in Harpers Ferry for trail safety and preparation.
Other Nearby Trails
Explore nearby trails such as The Murphy-Chambers Farm Trails and Bolivar Heights Trails. These are excellent additions to your hiking itinerary in Harpers Ferry.
Discovering More Outdoor Activities
For those interested in river activities, our article on River Rafting Spots offers insights into rafting and tubing options, or if you’re interested in a more relaxing experience see our article on the beautiful Mountain Lake Club, where you can relax on the beach, eat at the Lakeside Bar & Grill, or rent a pontoon and kayaks for a great day at the lake. The lake is about a 15-minute drive from Lower Town Harpers Ferry.
