Breathtaking Views at Harpers Ferry Overlook
Explore Harpers Ferry Overlook for stunning views of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, rich history, and serene hiking trails in West Virginia.
Nestled in the scenic Maryland Heights, Harpers Ferry Overlook offers stunning vistas of the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. This hiking area is a must-visit for tourists seeking both adventure and tranquility in the great outdoors. With its accessible trails and captivating panoramas, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of the region.
A brief summary to Harpers Ferry Overlook
- Whitman Ave, Bolivar, West Virginia, 25425, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as trails can be rocky and steep in places.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trails.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Consider visiting during the fall for breathtaking autumn foliage.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start from the main visitor center of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park located at 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. Head south on Shoreline Drive and follow the signs to Route 340. Turn left onto Route 340 (Washington Street) and continue for about 1.5 miles. Take a right onto Whitman Avenue. Continue on Whitman Avenue for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach the trailhead for the Maryland Heights Trail. There is no direct parking at the overlook, but you can park at the trailhead and hike to the overlook, which is about a 1.5-mile hike that climbs to the top.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take the MARC Train (Maryland Area Regional Commuter) to the Harpers Ferry Station. From the station, you will need to either walk or take a taxi to the visitor center. The walk is about 1 mile. Once at the visitor center, follow the directions for driving (above) to reach Whitman Avenue, then follow the Maryland Heights Trail to the overlook. Please be aware that public transportation schedules may vary, so check the MARC Train schedule in advance.
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Hiking
After parking at the Maryland Heights Trailhead on Whitman Avenue, start your hike on the Maryland Heights Trail. The trail is well-marked, and you will hike uphill for about 1.5 miles. The hike can be strenuous, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The trail will lead you directly to the Harpers Ferry Overlook, where you can enjoy stunning views of the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.
Discover more about Harpers Ferry Overlook
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lee Longsworth House
1.3 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture at the Lee Longsworth House, a key landmark in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.
Harper's Ferry Historic District Welcome Sign
1.6 km
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Ruins of Shenandoah Pulp Factory
1.8 km
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Harper’s Ferry Bandstand
2.0 km
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Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Administrative Headquarters
2.0 km
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Harpers Ferry National Historic District
2.0 km
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John H. Allstadt House
2.2 km
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Original Site John Brown's Fort
2.7 km
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Split Rock
3.5 km
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Lockhouse 31
7.0 km
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Downtown Charles Town Historic District
9.2 km
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South Charles Town Historic District
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C & O Canal Park
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C&O Canal Lock 30
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Shepherdstown Battlefield
12.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bolivar Heights Battlefield
0.2 km
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Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
0.4 km
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Lower Bolivar Heights Park
0.5 km
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Schoolhouse Ridge North
0.7 km
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Lower Town Trailhead
0.8 km
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Harpers Ferry Toy Train Museum & Joy Line Railroad
0.9 km
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Murphy Farm
1.0 km
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Halls Island
1.6 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and rich history of Halls Island in West Virginia, where nature and heritage come together in harmony.
Bird-Brady House
1.6 km
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Harpers Ferry Children's Park
1.7 km
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Connector Trail from AT to Appalachian Trail Visitor Center
1.8 km
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Staircase Rapids
2.0 km
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Harpers Ferry Public Square
2.0 km
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Shenandoah Canal
2.0 km
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Shenandoah Falls
2.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Country Café
0.4 km
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White Horse Tavern
0.6 km
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Two Rivers Tacos
0.9 km
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Alstadts Ale House
0.9 km
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Yatai Hibachi Food Trailer
1.2 km
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Deli Fornia
1.4 km
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Kelley Farm Kitchen
1.4 km
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Snallygasters Cafe and Wine Bar
1.4 km
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Isabella's Pizza & Subs
2.5 km
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The Rabbit Hole
2.5 km
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Almost Heaven Pub and Grill
2.6 km
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Coach House Bar & Grill
2.6 km
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Cannonball Deli
2.6 km
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Coffee Mill
2.6 km
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Brother's Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant
6.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White Fly Outfitters
0.6 km
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Not Your Grannys Crochet
1.4 km
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Like Mommy, Like Taylor
1.7 km
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Vintage Lady
2.5 km
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Magpie Pottery
2.5 km
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Tenfold Fair Trade Collection
2.5 km
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Mary Adams
2.5 km
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Tessoterica
2.5 km
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Bookshop
2.5 km
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Blue point jewelry and crystals
2.6 km
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Hodge Podge
2.6 km
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Canonball High Street
2.6 km
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Harpers Ferry General Store
2.6 km
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Harpers Ferry Outfitters Hike & Bike Supplies
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The Village Shop
2.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Barn of Harpers Ferry
1.4 km
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The Town's Inn
2.5 km
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The Mountain House
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Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee
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Longshot Billiards LLC
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1861 Saloon
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Big Johns Saloon
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Benchwarmers
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KCR Barrel Saloon
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Down Under LLC
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Abolitionist Ale Works
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Rainbow Road
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Rainbow Road Club
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O'Connells Pub
21.4 km
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Roadhouse Saloon
22.5 km
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