Five Things To Do in Harpers Ferry This Summer

Sunset view of Harpers Ferry from Maryland Heights, NPS Photo/Volunteer Devin Taggart

Katlyn Simmons
   
Harpers Ferry is a town as rich in scenic views as it is in history. From park museums found in restored 19th century buildings to beautiful hiking trails along quiet--and occasionally raging--rivers, you can spend hours uncovering the secrets of this historic town. Whether you like history, nature or recreation, take a step back in time and fall in love with Harpers Ferry.

1. Historic Hikes

Bolivar Heights Hiking Trail, HFPA Photo/K. Simmons

If you’re seeking a peaceful stroll or a challenging adventure, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park has 20 miles of  trails to discover. These hikes range from shorter walks where former factories boomed  to more strenuous mountain routes that lead to spectacular vistas. Get outside for some fresh air and a new perspective with Harpers Ferry’s unique hiking experiences. To learn more about the trails, visit the park’s website.

2. Private Guided Tours

Park Association Certified Guide giving tour of Lower Town, HFPA Photo/C. Baldau

Just like the confluence of the two rivers, many legends intersect at Harpers Ferry:  The first American presidents. Civil War battles. The struggle for freedom and equal rights. The Harpers Ferry Park Association offers Certified Guide Tours that take you to  significant locations relating to the John Brown Raid, Civil War, Meriwether Lewis at Harpers Ferry, Civil Rights, and Harpers Ferry's role as a transportation and industry center. Your tour will also offer great views of the unique geography and natural history of the land. The standard tour is 2 1/2 hours in length and is a walking tour with some driving in the town. Book a Certified Guide Tour and find the story that speaks to you.

3. Park Tours

Signs advertising ranger programs in Lower Town, NPS Photo/Volunteer Shenandoah Sanchez

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park offers a wide range of programs, special events, and presentations throughout the summer. With daily tours and staffed exhibits, there are numerous opportunities to learn about local history, experience a living history weekend, and meet park rangers that can impart knowledge on historic archeology finds, historic buildings, the natural environment, and much more. Visit the park’s website to see what tours you can attend during your visit to Harpers Ferry.

4. Historic Trade Workshops

Urban Dance and Dialog Workshop

Throughout the year, the Harpers Ferry Park Association partners with park rangers and skilled contractors to offer historic trade workshops that allow you to step back in time and experience 19th century life firsthand. Learn how the town reacted to John Brown’s raid, spin sugar into candy, or examine how music and movement has affected people throughout history. This summer, the Harpers Ferry Park Association teams up with Urban Artisity to bring an Urban Dance and Dialog workshop where participants can learn about the connection between urban dance and historic Harpers Ferry. Individuals of all skill levels are encouraged to participate in this workshop to learn about dance, vocal, and instrumental traditions that have endured through America’s history of slavery, Civil War, and Civil Rights.

Visit the Harpers Ferry Park Association website for details on this summer workshop and to reserve your spot.

5. Explore the Town

Photo of wheel inside John Brown's Fort, HFPA Photo/K. Simmons

If you’re just spending a day or a weekend in Harpers Ferry, consider wandering the streets and leaving no stone unturned while you seek out the nooks and crannies in this historic town. Investigate and unearth the secrets and stories that bring the history of the town to life. You can interact with park rangers and volunteers you meet to immerse yourself in the rich tales of the past. Browse the shelves of the bookshop for books and souvenirs that allow you to take memories home while supporting the park with your purchase.

With so much to discover, Harpers Ferry is just waiting to be explored. While it may seem like a small town best known for John Brown and the Civil War, it holds the stories of people and events spanning over 200 years of history, and a natural landscape a smitten Thomas Jefferson called “worth a journey across the Atlantic.”


What adventure are you looking forward to this summer in Harpers Ferry?