Maryland Heights Loop
Tour Civil War history and reach a spectacular overlook of Harper's Ferry.
Trail Running Moderate
- Distance
- 10 km
- Ascent
- 486 m
- Descent
- 486 m
- Duration
- 1-2 hrs
- Low Point
- 74 m
- High Point
- 442 m
- Gradient
- 11˚
Maryland Heights above Harper's Ferry is an extremely popular sightseeing hike and trail run as it affords spectacular views of the town below and the Potomac River stretching away into the distance. You'll also enjoy a large dose of Civil War history along this route.
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Description
Harper's Ferry is also one of the most famous stops along the Appalachian trail, and you're likely to spot a number of thru-hikers in town. That said, the run to Maryland Heights actually isn't on the AT alignment, making for a unique and entertaining hike. The heights themselves are located low on the mountainside, with the shortest route to reach them measuring only about 4.5 miles round-trip.
However, the route shown here climbs higher on the mountainside to visit an old stone fort near the mountain's summit.
Sources: https://www.nps.gov/hafe/planyourvisit/maryland-heights-trail.htm https://appalachiantrail.org/our-work/about-us/contact-us/harpers-ferry-visitor-center/
Difficulty
Moderate