About Maryland Heights
Welcome to the Maryland Heights Trail! This is one of Harpers Ferry’s more strenuous trails in the Harpers Ferry region and it offers a rich blend of spectacular scenery, geology, Civil War history, and more.
Parking and Getting There
Parking is available with an entry fee at the Harpers Ferry National Park Visitor Center at 171 Shoreline Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. Walk or take the free shuttle into Lower Town. Take a right at John Brown’s Fort to the Point. Be sure to stop here for the incredible views of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers! There are plenty of seats here if you’d like to stay and enjoy the views. From here, cross the bridge over the Potomac River and turn left at the bottom of the steps on the C&O Canal Towpath and continue 1/3 mile to the Maryland Heights Trail.
Location and Amenities
Maryland Heights Trailhead GPS location: 39.323934492951, -77.76133348475076
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Bathrooms and drinking water are available at the Visitor Center and in Lower Town. Most restaurants have bathrooms available for dining guests.
Quick Facts
- Distance: 4.5 6.5 miles (7.2 10.5 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 990 1788 feet
- Difficulty: Moderately strenuous to strenuous
- Time Estimate: 3 4 hours
The quickest route to the Maryland Heights Overlook is a 4.5-mile round trip starting from the Master Armorer’s House. For those seeking an extra challenge, the Stone Fort Loop adds an additional 2 miles, bringing the total to 6.5 miles.
Detailed Steps
- From the Master Armorer’s House in Lower Town, follow these steps to start your hike:
- Turn Right: Merge with the Appalachian Trail at the end of Shenandoah Street.
- Railroad Trestle: Proceed under the railroad trestle out to the Point.
- Footbridge: Cross the footbridge over the Potomac River and descend the spiral staircase to the C&O Canal Towpath.
- Turn Left: Follow the C&O Canal Towpath upstream for 0.3 miles.
- Cross a small wooden footbridge over the canal bed to Harpers Ferry Road. The trailhead is directly across the road.
On the Trail
- First Bend: Enjoy a nice view of the Potomac River.
- Naval Battery: Go straight at the first intersection to see the 1862 Naval Battery, then return to the green-blazed trail and turn right.
- Overlook Cliff Trail: Stay straight on the red-blazed trail for 0.3 miles, then turn right for a narrow, rocky descent of 0.5 miles to the cliffs overlooking Harpers Ferry.
- Stone Fort Trail: Backtrack to the blue-blazed trail, hike one mile uphill past Civil War artillery batteries to the Stone Fort, then descend steeply over one mile back to the green-blazed trail.
Essential Tips
- Fitness prep is key, especially since the trail can be demanding!
- Water: Drinking water is not available on the trail. Make sure to bring your own water. Water is available at the Visitor Center and in Lower Town.
- Restrooms: There are no restrooms on the trail. The nearest restrooms are at the Visitor Center and in Lower Town.
- Trash: Be prepared to carry out all of your trash to keep the trail clean and beautiful.
Hike Suggestions
Here are some suggested hikes to help you plan your adventure:
Lower Town to Maryland Heights Overlook
- Distance: 4.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1154 feet
- Rating: 6.8
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time Estimate: 3.4 hours
Lower Town to Maryland Heights Overlook, including Stone Fort Trail
- Distance: 6.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1522 feet
- Rating: 9.2
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time Estimate: 4.6 hours
Visitor Center to Maryland Heights Overlook, including Stone Fort Trail
- Distance: 9.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1771 feet
- Rating: 13.0
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time Estimate: 6.5 hours
The Maryland Heights Trail is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of Harpers Ferry. With its breathtaking views and rich historical significance, this trail promises an unforgettable hike. So lace up your boots, pack your essentials, and get ready to conquer Maryland Heights!
The Trail Experience
The Maryland Heights trail experience begins with a choice: the Overlook Cliff Trail or the Stone Fort Trail. Each offers its unique aspects. The Overlook Cliff Trail, shorter and less strenuous, leads to a stunning view of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, offering a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. On the other hand, the Stone Fort Trail, is a longer and more challenging route, and weaves through historical Civil War sites.
Historical Insights
The Maryland Heights area played a significant role during the Civil War, with the heights being a strategic location for both Union and Confederate forces. Don’t miss the historical markers that narrate the tales of yesteryear.
Maryland Heights trail is an experience that blends physical challenge with historical insights and stunning natural beauty. It promises an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most picturesque and historically rich landscapes.
River Activities
After your hike, why not cool down with some river activities? The Potomac and Shenandoah rivers offer opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and even white-water rafting. Discover more in our guide on river activities in Harpers Ferry and other things to do in Harpers Ferry.
Other Trails to Try
The Maryland Heights trail is just one of the many hiking experiences in Harpers Ferry. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider the Loudoun Heights Trails for your next hike, or the serene paths of Schoolhouse Ridge North.
Happy hiking!
