Welcome to

West Virginia

West Virginia’s section of the A.T. is short but one of the best known. A.T. hikers stop here to visit the headquarters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, which has been the psychological halfway point for A.T. hikers since the Conservancy (then Conference), moved to town in the 1970s.

Thru-hikers and section hikers intending to complete the entire Trail can get their photo taken with our iconic sign and add it to our archive of hiker photos dating back to 1979. And all hikers and visitors can get helpful information about the A.T., hiking, and the historic town of Harpers Ferry.

2.4 MILES
A.T. Miles in State
265′-1200′
Elevation Range in Feet
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Cool to know

The West Virginia section of the A.T. passes through the heart of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the site of John Brown’s Raid and notable Civil War battles. Harpers Ferry is home to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters and Visitor Center, which hikers can get to via a blue-blazed side trail. The path connecting the A.T. to the ATC passes through the campus of the former Storer College, created to provide education for freed enslaved people after the Civil War.

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Need to know

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.

West Virginia Image Gallery

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In 1972, Harpers Ferry became the home of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters and Visitor Center.
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The A.T. crosses over the Potomac River into Maryland via a historic railroad bridge.

Get Involved

Potomac Appalachian Trail Club

Potomac Appalachian Trail Club

The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) has enhanced the mid-Atlantic outdoor experience since 1927, including 240 miles of the Appalachian Trail in Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania. The PATC maintains trails, shelters and cabins, and they make maps and guidebooks for outdoor adventurers. Learn more and become a member today at patc.net.

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ATC Volunteer Program

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is always looking for dedicated volunteers to help maintain the A.T. and assist in our visitor centers and headquarters. Opportunities range from greeting visitors and providing information about local hikes to joining a Trail crew for week-long maintenance trips, gaining first-hand experience in what it takes to keep the A.T. open and enjoyable for millions each year. Learn more at appalachiantrail.org/volunteer.