After visiting Harper’s Ferry twice last year, I desperately wanted to come back and hike the Maryland Heights Trail. The trail is a 6.2 mile loop with 1,522 feet of elevation gain. There are a few shorter versions of the hike that allow you to visit the overlook, but I was excited to complete the whole loop, fort, overlook, and all.
We had an amazing day to do this hike, as the weather was completely bizarre. When we began our hike it was sunny and warm, but as we gained elevation, there was quite a bit of fog. The extension part of the hike where the fort is located was nothing short of creepy!
It felt like we were entering a horror film as we did this hike, and most people leave off the extension so we were totally alone until we reached the top. The foliage changed as we got higher and higher, and the damp rainy climate was a fun change of events as we continued up the mountain. Once at the top, you can see Union fortifications built in 1862. There are ammunition pits, breastworks, powder magazines, and gun batteries along the trail.
After taking a look at the historic part of the hike, we headed back down the mountain to the overlook portion of the hike, which looks out over the town of Harper’s Ferry and the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. The view is really amazing, and the shortened version of this hike attracts a solid crowd for that reason.
Getting to the trail head from the parking areas involves close to two miles of walking, but you pass through the town of Harper’s Ferry on the way there. The good news about passing through the town is that you can stop for a delightful lunch after your hike! My friend and I decided to stop at Potomac Grille, which has a spectacular view.
Visiting Harper’s Ferry is always fun, and I would be interested in returning to eventually check out the Loudon Heights Loop. A visit to Harper’s Ferry is $10/car, but it was free with my National Parks pass. After my visits to the Arch in St. Louis, Shenandoah, Prince William Forest Park, and now here, I’m at a value of $53/$80 for my America the Beautiful pass.
Thanks for reading! It’s starting to cool off in DC, which may mean it is time to visit more of the indoor sites.
Amanda's Adventures 