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The Maryland Heights TrailHarper's Ferry from a Union Soldiers Prospective
On the Maryland bank of the Potomac River, a looped trail hides the remnants of Union soldiers ramparts that were built to protect the munitions factory ar Harper's.
Protecting the Union's Interests at Marylang HeightsHiking the Maryland Heights Trail loops allows the trekker to revisit Civil War history. The hillside above the Maryland bank once consisted of ramparts where sharpshooters protected the Union’s major munitions factory. Looking at a general map of the area, Harper’s Ferry lies between the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Since the Civil War split the Virginias, with West Virginia remaining ceded to the Union, the small wilderness village could be considered the Beirut of its day. A more infamous uprising occurred at the local fire house where John Brown and other abolitionists staged a coup, and now park service volunteers, in period uniforms, stand guard. The Appalachian Trail goes through Harper’s Ferry and shares the railroad bridge into Maryland. Crossing the railroad bridge, prepare for the noise and vibration of an oncoming train. This Appalachian Trail walkway is completely safe yet the violent roar can cause quite a scare. Across the bridge the train disappears into a tunnel and the walkway spirals toward the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. Following the curve of the Potomac, a visitor can see a rarity of three states at once: West Virginia to the south, Virginia to the southeast and Maryland to the north. Old pylon remnants, once bridges, now host a variety of local plants and trees, a slow return to the natural state. Locating evidence of a Union stronghold at Maryland Heights can be challenging. The land has reclaimed most the army’s endeavors. Crumbling stone may appear to form some sort of pattern. It’s easier to acknowledge a posted signs’ authority. Harper’s Ferry from Washington D.C.When vacationing in Washington D.C., Harpers Ferry may be considered a welcomed side trip. Take Interstate 495 (the Beltway) and exit at I-270 northwest to Frederick, and then at Frederick, take U.S. 340 west to Harper’s Ferry. Follow directional signs to the Harper’s Ferry Visitor Center and use the adjacent parking lot. There is minimal parking in the township. All lanes in the town point toward the now razed Union munitions factory, the fire house, and the confluence. The Appalachian Trail, the C@O Canal, and the Maryland Heights Trail are all accessible by crossing the railroad bridge. Descending off the bridge, the trekker is officially on the towpath of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. Heading west along the dry canal bed, signs will point to the Maryland Heights trail head, and onto a trail that is moderately challenging yet deeply shaded under a primeval forest. Maryland Heights loop is a three-seasonal trail and is considered strenuous, but note that the colors of autumn rival New England. AccommodationsThere are several Bed and Breakfast Inns in Harper’s Ferry, starting from $75.00. The Laurel Lodge at 844 East Ridge Street promises sweeping views overlooking the town and the confluence. Many restaurants in the area economically serve the day trippers; from pub grub to full service restaurants. Harper’s Ferry is rife with museums. Beyond its obvious Civil War contribution, the township hosts the John Brown, Black Voices, and Restoration Museums, and all are within the several square-block walking distance. Of note is the Harper’s Ferry Toy Train Museum at 937 Bakerton Road where miniatures of every size are on display including a miniature Joy Line on the museum property.
The copyright of the article The Maryland Heights Trail in Maryland Travel is owned by James Barnett. Permission to republish The Maryland Heights Trail in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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