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, where they have their photos taken and log their travels.

2.4 MILES
A.T. Miles in State
RATING:
1-6
Easy to Moderate
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, known as the “psychological halfway point” of the Appalachian 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.

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.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy

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.