Maryland Heights is another of those must-do circuits for most hikers in the metro area. With a spectacular view of Harpers Ferry from the main overlook, and steeped in Civil War history, this shorter circuit is a favorite for many. But be prepared for the crowds, on nicer days this hike is very busy.
The main ridge at Maryland Heights has the ruins of Union Civil War forts, trenches, gunpowder magazines, and infantry encampments. With most of the circuit having informational signage describing the different ruins.
From the parking area start up the Combined Trail and pass the Naval Battery built in 1862, and first of the Union fortifications on Maryland Heights. At the next intersection, and informational sign, turn left uphill on the Stone Fort Trail as it very steeply ascends towards the ridge.
Once arriving at the ridge pass through the main fort area, then climb a set of log stairs to reach the main interior of the fort. This main section, and largest earthwork, was constructed in June of 1863. The main stone wall on the north of the fort was erected to protect it from northern attack.
From here the Stone Fort Trail will pass back to the south, with views of the Potomac River to the east through the trees. The trail will descend more steeply before ending at the intersection of the top section of the Combined Trail.
Turn left towards the overlook and in 150 yards turn right down the Overlook Trail. The main overlook for Harpers Ferry is in 0.3 miles.
Return to the Combined Trail, then follow it past the two trailheads for the Stone Fort Trail as it descends back down to Sandyhook Rd.
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Reviews For The Maryland Heights Hike (5 Most Recent)
Awesome hike and worth the effort. Weather was much warming than anticipated so that made it a bit grueling, plus we had parked on far side of Harpers Ferry since this is not exactly the hike we had originally planned. Kids loved the views, mom was a little nervous so be careful on the overlook with younger kids.
By:
Granny
Rating:
Date of Hike: Monday, September 28, 2009
Just returned from my 3rd attempt at reaching the top.... first try was a few years back in mid August and was much too hot! Second attempt was at Christmas time and it was too icy. Today I was pushing my 30 lb. grandson in his jogger buggy. We got to the first section that appeared to start a downhill section, but it started to rain so we turned around. I'm not sure how much further we had to go to enjoy the view from the cliffs. It is a nice wide trail that is smooth enough for the buggy although it is steep for pushing (makes one appreciate how those boys got the cannons up to the fort) Someday I hope to make it to the top so I can sit and enjoy the view.
By:
Dave
Rating:
Date of Hike: Saturday, July 18, 2009
Having visited Harpers Ferry dozens of time and looking at the people on the cliff from the WV side we decided it was time to scale this mountain. The first section of trail (green) is a bit boring but the blue section that ascends to the fort is a nice hike and rigorous as well. Once you get to the top it's an easy walk although the trail itself can be tricky in spots. Just south of the main fort is a nice overlook. If you look SE with a pair of binos you can actually see the Arlington skyline. There is a very tall slender object to the right of the skyline. It was hard to see clearly but was either the Washington Monument in DC or the Masonic Temple in Alexandria. We were fortunate to see this far in July but a cold front came though the day before and provide temps in the upper 70's, clear skies, and low humidity. The hike down to the overlook can be rough on your knees and the climb back out is a lot of work but any hike is better as the difficulty increases. The best advice is to set a steady pace and keep on truckin'. Stop at the level spots for two-minutes and begin up the hill again.
By:
John
Rating:
Date of Hike: Friday, May 29, 2009
This was a great hike. The blue trail to the top was very steep going up. Be sure to bring enough water for the hike and plan for summer thunderstorms! The view from the cliff of Harpers Ferry, the rivers, and the valley was spectacular.
By:
Keith
Rating:
Date of Hike: Sunday, May 17, 2009
I really enjoyed this hike, especially as one of the first kick-off hikes of the season. Get to the parking along the Potomac early as they fill up fast. There were tons of people of all types on the main overlook trail hikers, alongside tourists panting and sweating, who looked like they wondered if perhaps they'd made some horrible mistake. The terrain is step in some areas, but the final overlook makes everything well worth the hike. I particularly like the fact that Harper's Ferry is nearby, and the Swiss Miss (believe it or not) makes terrific lump crab cakes if anyone's interested.
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