Harpers Ferry, W.Va., is a great family day trip that offers something for everyone, from nature lovers to history enthusiasts.
The beautiful, historic town sits at the convergence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, only an hour and a half from Annapolis. There are trails to hike, an old town to explore, the C&O Canal Tow Path for biking and battlefields to visit. You can even take a hike up to the top of Maryland Heights and take in spectacular views of the rivers and the town.
The Maryland Heights trail is a challenging hike that leads to a rewarding bird’s-eye view of Harpers Ferry.
![HarpersFerry](https://wordpress-938214-4066445.cloudwaysapps.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/HarpersFerry.jpg)
The 4-mile round-trip hike to the cliffs and back is difficult because it is steep and rocky, but at the top of the climb, the panoramic views of the Potomac and Shenandoah river valleys and town below make it all worth it.
If your family is looking for more of a challenge, hike farther up the mountain on the 6.5-mile round-trip route to the stone fort from the Civil War.
The park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and costs $20 per vehicle.
For more information about the hikes and history, visit the Harpers Ferry National Historic Park website.
For other ideas for where to hike, check out our list of 7 Maryland hikes with amazing views.
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