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 Reporter |
Summary: History combined with beauty! This is a hike over well-marked trails with many interpretive signs along the way. There are some steep climbs and some rocky terrain. The first park of the hike features a spectacular overlook of Harpers Ferry and the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. However, it doesn't come easily. The trail climbs steadily up a picturesque stream valley to a side trail leading to the overlook. The Overlook Trail descends for .5 mi, but is worth it! For a shorter hike (2.8), return the same way you came. The second part of the hike includes much history. The trail climbs to the ridge passing remains of fortifications built by the Union forces in 1862 after their defeat at Harpers Ferry. There are ammunition pits, breastworks, powder magizines, and gun batteries along the trail. The remains of the main fort are at the summit of Maryland Heights. A military camp was located in the level area just below the summit. Trailhead: I-495 to VA 7; west on VA 7 around Leesburg, then right onto VA 9. In about 10 mi turn right ont VA 671, then right (north) ontu US 340. Follow signs to Harpers Ferry National Park visitors center. (Lat:39.32 Lon:-77.73) Trail Guides for Maryland Heights: Circuit Hikes in VA WVA MD and PA by Potomac Appalachain Trail Club (PATC) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: National Park Service 304-535-6298 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted 56 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by CM on 7/31/2008 I'm using this hike to train for hiking the Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali coast of Kauai later this year. Steepness and total elevation changes are comparable if I do one full loop, but if I do it twice I've gone about 11 miles, comparable to the distance on the Kalalau. Look for me hiking it with a full pack in August. Aloha
Reviewed by Viewer on 7/24/2008 My wife and me did this hike as part of our 30th anniversary trip to Virginia. We are 50 + years old, and while the trail was tough it was well worth it. Having been a Civil War buff all my life I can recommend it to anyone who has a like interest or just enjoys and incredible view.
Reviewed by SonnyFey on 6/17/2008 A tough hike unless you you are very fit. The initial assent is via a 'fire road' and consistently steep until you reach marker #3. From there there are inclines but teh worst is over. The trip to overlook rock made the day both exhausting and so worth it. A beautiful scene on a rock outcropping with generous room for a picinic. We'll be back once our fittness increases. 
Reviewed by RJD on 5/27/2008 The best view in Maryland, bar none. It's worth looking into the history surrounding the fortifications. The Heights figured prominently into the prelude to the Battle of Antieitam
Reviewed by d on 5/12/2008 It was gerat
Reviewed by Betsy on 8/14/2007 This was a great hike. The first part of the blue trail is quite steep but well worth the effort. The view of Harpers Ferry was great. We spent a half an hour just enjoying the view.
Reviewed by Eric on 4/29/2007 THE DIRECTIONS GIVEN ABOVE ARE WRONG. Coming from the DC area you need to take a left (south) onto US 340 to reach the visitor center for the park. It's a great hike though, with a spectacular view.
Reviewed by The Giant Skunk on 4/24/2007 A great way to enjoy history and a good workout hike. March through HF across the bridge to the C&O canal path and head west to the trailhead which pretty much goes up hill from there. The path is wide with interesting historical markers along the way. The shorter loop takes you to the cliffs overlooking Harper's Ferry which is nice but if you are up to it, be sure and take the longer route. The remains of the Civil War fort, breastworks, huts etc. are quite evocative. We had no problem following the blazes. Be sure and take water with you. There is no source up there. If you park in the NPS lot the last shuttle leaves downtown at 1745. We were late and bummed a ride. Otherwise it's a couple more miles hiking back to the lot. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: West Virginia Hiking, West Virginia Trails, West Virginia Hikes, Jefferson County Hiking, Jefferson County Trails, Jefferson County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||