Hikes: West Virginia

Hike Name *C&O Canal Towpath
Closest Town Harpers Ferry WV
Difficulty Level** Easy
Elevation Gain  
Distance 1 - 5.4 miles round trip (choose how far you'd like to hike)
Features Historic C & O Canal
Description You can hike as far as you'd like on the C & O Canal, this description described an out and back hike on the A.T.'s two junctions on the towpath, but you can turn back sooner.  From John Brown's Fort in Harpers Ferry, WV, follow the white blazes that lead to the Goodloe E. Byron Memorial Footbridge over the Potomac River.  On the Maryland side of the Potomac River, descend stairs to the C & O Towpath.  Turn to the right and follow the A.T./C & O Towpath, which share the same footpath for the next 2.6 miles.  Hike out as far along the A.T./C & O Towpath as you like.  Retrace your steps to return to Harpers Ferry.
Directions Harpers Ferry National Park has limited parking in the historic area.  It is best to park at the park headquarters and take the frequent shuttle buses to the historic area, which the AT traverses.  As you approach Harpers Ferry on US 340, follow signs to the entrance of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The park entrance is on the south side of the only stoplight on 340 in the vicinity of Harpers Ferry.  From the shuttle bus stop walk toward the historic district.  The A.T. enters from the steep stairway on your left up Washington St. and continues north across the Potomac River railroad bridge straight ahead. 

 

Hike Name Weverton Cliffs
Closest Town Point of Rocks, MD/Harpers Ferry, WV
Difficulty Level** Strenuous
Elevation Gain  
Distance 2 miles, round trip
Features Great views from Weverton Cliffs
Description From the trailhead, follow the A.T. north.  The climb is steep and involves switchbacks.  Reach the short side trail to the cliffs at mile 1.
Directions To reach the trailhead at Weverton Road, follow Maryland 67 North from US 340.  Weverton Road is the first right turn after US 340.  Parking is available alongside the Trail.  The A.T. crosses Weverton Road 1 mile from MD 67