Lower Town
Restored streets of small museums on the armory, the raid and the Black college that later stood here.
Harpers Ferry
A preserved 19th-century town where two rivers meet, site of John Brown's raid and a stop on the Appalachian Trail.
The footbridge across the Potomac is closed for repairs, which cuts the usual way to Maryland Heights and the C&O towpath. A small shuttle runs from the visitor center to Lock 34, but the park suggests other trails for now.Checked November 2, 2026 · Latest
This steep little town stands where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet and three states touch. In 1859 the abolitionist John Brown tried to seize its federal armory to arm a slave uprising, a raid that pushed the country toward war. In 1862 Stonewall Jackson captured about 12,000 Union troops here.
The National Park Service runs much of Lower Town as a living museum. The Appalachian Trail passes straight through, and the C&O Canal towpath runs along the far bank.
- Best Time
- April–June and September–October
- Time Needed
- 1 day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Every day; museums keep shorter winter hours
- Getting There
- About 90 minutes by car from Washington, DC. MARC commuter trains run from DC on weekdays; check the schedule.
What to See
1 of 4 are freeMaryland Heights Overlook
The classic view down on the town and the rivers' meeting point. A strenuous climb, across the footbridge when it's open.
Jefferson Rock
Thomas Jefferson praised this view in 1783. A short walk up stone steps from town.
Appalachian Trail Visitor Center
The trail's unofficial midpoint town, where thru-hikers get their photo taken.
Know Before You Go
- Parking in Lower Town is very limited. Use the visitor center lot and its shuttle bus.
- The rivers look gentle and aren't. People drown here most years; don't swim.
Where to Stay
Stay in town or in nearby Shepherdstown.
Where to Eat
Our picks are on the way.
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The Civil War's turning point, and the field where Lincoln gave his most famous speech.
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Monuments, the Capitol and the world's largest free museum complex, all on one great lawn.
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Mid-Atlantic list.