Harpers Ferry, WV

The Appalachian Trail is the world’s longest hiking path, running 2,200 miles from Maine to Georgia. The trail passes through the center of Harpers Ferry and the Harpers Ferry Visitor Center has all the information you need to start exploring it. The Appalachian Trail extends through one of its most historically significant sites at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The park is most famous as the site of abolitionist John Brown’s raid on the First Federal Arsenal in 1859. Many other important events have occurred at this site and the park changed hands eight times during the Civil War. This sprawling 4,000-acre park is located at the scenic confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. There are also many historic structures within the park and recreation opportunities on its river. Jefferson Rock is a famous landmark where Thomas Jefferson was awestruck by the river and Blue Ridge scenery. Popular river-based activities include fishing, kayaking, and white-water rafting. The wood-framed Harpers Ferry Station is located within the park. This station was designed in 1894 and still serves as an active Amtrak stop. The station contains interesting historical anachronisms such as separate men’s and women’s waiting rooms. The sprawling natural scenery of 140-acre Gathland State Park surrounds Harpers Ferry on three sides.