Loudoun Heights is the sister hike to Maryland Heights in the Harpers Ferry, WV area. The
out and back hike is a little longer than Maryland Heights and less frequented, but still has amazing
views. The final overlook has steep drop offs to the Potomac River and gorgeous views towards
Harpers Ferry as well as down the Potomac River towards Washington DC.
Park in the small parking area just across the Shenandoah River Bridge on the West Virginia
side. (There is a parking fee to use this lot.) Then begin the hike by walking back across the
bridge on the sidewalk. Once across the bridge, take the steps to the left that send you down
and under the bridge. Then you're off!
The trail across the bridge and for the first section of the hike is the white-blazed Appalachian
trail as it makes its way into Virginia. Once under the bridge, there are a some nice rocky
step areas that lead you up the hill. After the rocky areas, the twists and turns through a
jungle-like area that also crosses a creek. The trail will cross Chestnut Hill Rd.
Once across the road, the trail continues along the Appalachian Trail and continues to climb,
but the terrain is more open. After about 1/2 mile past the road, take a left off of the Appalachian Trail
onto the orange-blazed trail. (The Appalachian Trail branches off to the right). As you continue
further, a few partial overlooks appear. I have heard from friends that there are ways to some of the other rock
overlooks along this side of the mountain but I couldn't seem to find the trail. One nice
overlook from the trail is where powerlines open up and are strung across to Maryland Heights.
After an open area where the trail is along the powerline, there is another uphill to an
intersection. Take a left at the next intersection onto the blue-blazed trail. Continue for
another mile until the trail ends at the rocks overlooking the river. The views are gorgeous.... looking
to the left is Harpers Ferry with the confluence of the Potomac (R) and Shenandoah (L) Rivers.
Looking to the right is down the Potomac towards Washington D.C. Looking straight across is to
the Maryland Heights mountain and looking straight down is the Potomac!!
Hope this has been enjoyable and / or helpful to anyone reading it!!
Additional information about this hike can be found here:
http://www.hikingupward.com/OWVH/HarpersFerryLoudounHeights/
http://www.nps.gov/hafe/planyourvisit/upload/LoudounHts2011.pdf
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