In the tip of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet, the picturesque little town of Harpers Ferry hugs the steep hills and ravines at the water’s edge. The village’s street and sidewalks are a tangle of ups, downs, and tilts. Heralded not only as the most historically significant town in West Virginia but also one of national importance, it played critical roles in the construction of the U.S. railroad system and in early-integrated schools. It is best known as the place where abolitionist John Brown led his infamous raid on the federal armory, an event that was a catalyst for the Civil War. Three key battles of the Civil War were fought in Harpers Ferry leading up to the bloody Battle of Antietam in nearby Sharpsburg, Maryland.

The area’s historical significance is so great that almost the entire town of Harpers Ferry is designated a historic district. The Harpers Ferry National Historic Park was established in 1944 and is administered by the National Park Service, which works to preserve the city’s antebellum feel. Amazingly, a third of the original town is still intact, providing a rare and authentic stage for reenactors.

“Harpers Ferry is where natural beauty, history, and culture converge, and it is the gateway to West Virginia. Whether you come for the sightseeing, the history, or the recreational fun, there is no shortage of things to do,” Senator Shelley Moore Capito says.

You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy Harpers Ferry. Outdoor enthusiasts take pleasure in its breathtaking scenery and the many ways to access it. The nearby C&O Canal towpath once trodden by mule teams is a smooth, level trail, perfect for hiking or biking. Hikers can also follow part of the 2,200-mile-long Appalachian Trail through Harpers Ferry. A long climb up rough stone steps from the center of town will take you to Jefferson Rock, where the panorama will rob you of any breath you have left. This is the view that Thomas Jefferson said was worth a trip across the Atlantic.

Capito says, “In a testament to its character, the historic town rebuilt quickly following a devastating fire that destroyed eight businesses in 2015. Each year 300,000 people visit Harpers Ferry from every continent and visitation is up seven percent this year.”

All Aboard!

The Harpers Ferry Toy Train Museum and Joy Line Miniature Railroad, located off Route 340 at Bakerton Road, is a delight for children and adults alike. Climb aboard the Joy Line and peruse the founder Robert E. Wallich, Sr.’s extensive collection of train paraphernalia.goo.gl/n24Nv7 

Make History

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service atHarpers Ferry National Historical Park. Take a self-guided tour—the displays in the restored buildings are superb—or check nps.gov/ hafe for special events, tours, and historic trades workshops. 

John Brown’s Fort was erected in 1848 as the armory’s fire engine and guard house. It was here that John Brown and several of his followers barricaded themselves inside during the final hours of their 1859 raid. 

The historically black Storer College is where abolitionist Frederick Douglass delivered his famous 1881 speech on abolitionist John Brown. It also hosted the second conference of the Niagara Movement, an effort to end racial discrimination, in August 1906. 

Shopping

The Vintage Lady is a mainstay and required stop in Harpers Ferry. A year ago, a fire ravaged a portion of the upper part of the town, destroying the store. But the owners worked hard to rebuild and now it’s better than ever. Owner Cindi Dunn, a talented jewelry artist, thoughtfully selects jewelry, trendy clothing, accessories, home goods, and collectibles. “I commend Cindi and Billy Dunn for reopening the Vintage Lady soon after the fire. Small businesses like the Vintage Lady are critical to our state’s tourism economy,” Capito says. “This shop is not only a staple of the Harpers Ferry community, it is known around the country, with visitors coming from all 50 states.” thevintagelady.net 

Outdoors

Hike the Appalachian Trail

?Stretching from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is more than 2,000 miles long and has inspired numerous hikers worldwide to attempt its full length in one season. Of course, you can also take the easier route and hike it in sections. We lucky West Virginians claim the Appalachian Trail’s “psychological halfway point” in Harpers Ferry—both the National Park Service Appalachian Trail office and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy call the town home. Before venturing out, visit the trail visitors’ center to learn more about the history and culture of the Appalachian Trail. From the visitors’ center you can follow the trail for a day hike and return to Harpers Ferry by dinnertime. “Our state is wild and wonderful, and Harpers Ferry is home to excellent hiking and biking trails for the outdoor lover,” says Capito. “I enjoyed hiking the Appalachian Trail, which has four miles in West Virginia. The trail has had a 49 percent increase in visitors this year, with travelers seeking more outdoor adventures.” appalachiantrail.org

Bike the C&O

“The C&O Canal and other nearby bike trails highlight West Virginia’s scenic beauty,” says Capito. Harpers Ferry is an ideal location to access the C&O towpath for a biking excursion. You’ll access the canal from a footbridge and need to carry your bike down a spiral staircase, but once you’re riding, many believe the 10-mile section near Harpers Ferry is the best on the entire path.

River Riders

With two rivers converging upon it, there is no shortage of water-based recreation in Harpers Ferry. Local outfitter River Riders supplies gear for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and stand-up paddleboarding and organizes float trips and whitewater rafting excursions. You can also challenge yourself in its aerial adventure park.riverriders.com