While West Virginia’s section of the Appalachian Trail is the shortest of any state, it is one of the best known. A.T. hikers stop here to visit the headquarters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy — the Trail’s “psychological halfway point” — have their photos taken and log their travels. Here visitors can find helpful information about the A.T., hiking, and the historic town of Harpers Ferry.
2.4
A.T. Miles in State
0
Shelters
265'–1,200'
Elevation Range
CT, GA, MN, MD, MA, NH, NJ, NY, NC, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV | Alert
CT, GA, MN, MD, MA, NH, NJ, NY, NC, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV | Permits
689 DAYS AGO
The West Virginia section of the A.T. passes through the heart of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where the Trail passes along ridgelines and vantage points critical during the Civil War as well as the site of John Brown’s Raid. The blue blazed path connecting the A.T. to the ATC Headquarters passes through the campus of the former Storer College, created to provide education for freed enslaved people after the Civil War.
A.T. hikers have stopped at the ATC Visitor Center in Harpers Ferry since the 1970s to take a photo with our iconic headquarters sign. Visitors can view photo albums of these Trail pilgrims while learning more about the Trail. In recent years, “flip flop” thru-hikes have gained popularity, and many of individuals begin their alternative thru-hikes each year from the ATC Visitor Center.
There is no camping in the town of Harpers Ferry or Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. However, there are a number of commercial campgrounds nearby, and there are a variety of places to stay in town, ranging from B&Bs, hostels, motels and an inn.
Two-hour parking is available in the ATC parking lot behind our building. Long term parking for up to 14 days is available at the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center.
Learn More
The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club manages, maintains and protects the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Georgia with volunteers from its membership and the interested public. The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club promotes the appreciation of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and natural outdoor places through education and recreational activities, with an emphasis on conservation ethics and protection of the forests, their natural resources and wilderness areas.
Visit PATC WebsiteThe towns of Harpers Ferry and Bolivar are recognized jointly by the A.T. Community™ program and are assets for everyone visiting the A.T. and nearby public lands, providing restaurants, supplies, recreation, historic resources, and much more!
Learn More
The Little Bluestone Community Forest will add to the constellation of public lands between the Appalachian Trail, the Bluestone National Scenic River and New River Gorge National Park & Preserve.
Read More
Take a look at these popular day hikes to explore in West Virginia
While the Appalachian Trail is a relatively safe place to visit, that does not mean that there are not potential dangers while you are hiking or camping. If you see something, say something — this will help us keep the A.T. as safe as possible for our visitors.
Incident Reporting