Maryland Heights via Overlook Cliffs

Maryland Heights is at the convergence of Maryland, West Virginia and Virginia, as well as the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. The Appalachian Trail and C&O Canal Towpath are also easily accessible from the trailhead parking lot.

The parking lot holds about 16 cars and is between Locks 33 and 34, or approximately mile 61 of the C & O Canal Towpath. The hike starts on the opposite side of the road from the Towpath. Follow the steep green-blazed trail and keep right at the split with the blue-blazed Stone Fort Trail. You'll now be on the red-blazed "Overlook Cliff Trail".

Be sure to look for the trail breaking off and descending quickly to the right from the old road bed - this is approximately 1.1 miles into the hike. After this turn it's a quick 0.3 mile, 300' descent down to Maryland Heights. The overlook has views of Virginia, the town of Harper's Ferry (West Virginia) and Maryland. There's plenty of room to spread out, which is nice when there's typically large crowds here on the weekend.

Simply retrace your steps along the Overlook Trail back to your car for a 2.8 mile round trip hike. For a longer option, you could also explore the 2.2 mile Stone Fort Trail either on your way in or way out (See this map). Once finished, cross the Potomac River via the Appalachian Trail to get a bite to eat and/or an adult beverage in Harper's Ferry.