Due to safety concerns, the Goodloe Byron Memorial Footbridge to the C&O Canal NHP towpath is expected to remain closed throughout the month of October. This work is separate from, and in addition to, the staircase replacement. A shuttle with very limited space currently runs between Harpers Ferry NHP Visitor Center and C&O Canal Lock 34. This will impact access to Maryland Heights, the Appalachian NST, and the Potomac Heritage NST. We strongly advise considering other trails when possible.
DC Water is managing a sanitary sewer overflow from the Potomac Interceptor near Lock 10. Anyone with questions or in need of support can reach out to DC Water’s 24-Hour Command Center at (202) 612-3400 or visit https://www.dcwater.com/about-dc-water/media/potomac-interceptor-collapse.
Horses are prohibited between Little Tonoloway (mile 124.5) and Paw Paw (mile 155) due to recent and ongoing towpath resurfacing. See more for details.
Many closures remain on the Trail following Hurricane Helene's devastation. This will remain true for the foreseeable future. Visit the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) website for an up-to-date list of closures. OBSERVE ALL CLOSURES. Stay safe!
Human-habituated bears have been frequently spotted in the McAfee Knob Area. Allowing bears access to human food or garbage causes it to lose its fear of humans. Follow all food storage regulations, use provided food lockers and never feed a bear.
Visitors are restricted to the designated trails within the Gold Mine Tract in the Great Falls area. This location is generally defined as that area bordered by MacArthur Boulevard and Berma Road and depicted on the Great Falls Maryland Hiking Map.
This fall, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve will conduct prescribed burns in two designated areas to support ecosystem health and reduce wildfire risk in the park and local communities.
You don’t have to travel far to find spectacular fall color. National parks across the Washington, D.C., region offer countless ways to experience autumn, from mountain trails and Potomac River views to historic battlefields, urban forests and the National Mall.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park will mark the 167th anniversary of John Brown’s 1859 raid on the U.S. Armory with three public programs in October exploring the people, events and consequences of the raid.
As the nation continues to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the National Park Service sites across the National Capital Area are inviting visitors to explore the region’s rich military history and the people and events that shaped the country. Throughout September, living history programs, artillery demonstrations, ranger-guided hikes and other events will connect visitors with stories spanning from 1775 through World War II.
Step into the history as Harpers Ferry National Historical Park commemorates the 164th anniversary of the Battle of Harpers Ferry with four days of special programs from September 12–15, 2026. Programs explore the people and events surrounding the battle, which resulted in the largest surrender of U.S. troops until World War II, as well as the battle’s broader implications.
Applications are open for the 2027 Chesapeake Gateways Grants supporting enhanced outdoor recreation and heritage tourism in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The application period runs from Aug. 27 through Nov. 4, 2026. Visit the National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways website to learn more about the grants and how to apply.
The National Park Service is excited to welcome visitors to celebrate National Park Week from Saturday, August 22 through Sunday, August 30, as dozens of sites across the region mark the 2026 theme, “Celebrate America’s Story,” highlighting the 250th anniversary of American independence and recognizing our shared American heritage of national parks.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and the Appalachian Chamber Music Festival invite the public to a dynamic, free outdoor concert on Friday, August 7, at 7:00 p.m., celebrating two iconic forces in American music. Blending the swing innovations of Don Redman with the timeless brilliance of George Gershwin, festival musicians and the Howard Burns Quartet will bring an energetic fusion of jazz and classical traditions to the historic Storer College lawn as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary festivities.
On Saturday, June 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the park will host “Harpers Ferry’s Impact on the Civil War,” a special day that connects visitors to the people and events that shaped the outcome of the Civil War and the nation’s long journey toward freedom.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (NHP) invites you to join “John Brown and Frederick Douglass: A Legacy of Freedom” on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Discover the powerful connection between Harpers Ferry and two influential abolitionists who shared a commitment to ending slavery, but pursued different paths in their fight for freedom in the United States.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park invites visitors to join our 250th anniversary program, Defend and Protect: Arming the American Soldier on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This special event explores the weapons and technology produced at the Harpers Ferry Armory from the 1790s to 1861 and how these innovations shaped the nation and the world.
The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking ideas for potential uses of historic Cook Hall. The NPS invites individuals, educational institutions, government agencies, nonprofit and for-profit organizations to share their ideas by responding to a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEI).
In 2026, the park, the Harpers Ferry Park Association, and partners will host a series of public programs and events that bring these stories to life and connect them to the choices and responsibilities that shape our shared future. We invite you to join us for one event or many and experience how this small town helped shape the course of American history, then and now.
The National Park Service has completed the Great Falls Area (Maryland) Development Concept Plan, a major milestone that sets the long-term direction for stewardship, visitor experiences and education at one of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s most visited places.
The National Park Service will begin construction on a new stairway connecting the Goodloe Byron Memorial Footbridge (Byron Bridge) to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park towpath at mile 60.6.
Built in 1801 by Abner Cloud, Jr., the house is considered one of the finest examples of Federal architecture in Washington D.C. Pre-dating the construction of the C&O Canal, the home of Abner Cloud served as the center of the family farm and fishing business. Tour the Abner Cloud House and learn more about early 19th century farming, architecture, and the people who lived and worked on the property. The three-story, stone home is operated in parntership with The Colonial Dames of America and is open for tours on the first Sunday of each month from 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm. The Abner Cloud House is located at Fletchers Cove . Admission to Fletchers Cove and the Abner Cloud House is free.
Join a ranger at 10:00 for programs about various topics. Topics vary daily. Check the "whats happening today" board at Canyon Rim Visitor Center or ask a ranger for the topic of the day and the program starting location.
Unlike many turn of the century towns in New River Gorge, Thurmond was a railroad town instead of a coal town. For years, this small town brought in millions of dollars for the C&O Railway with a bustling downtown district and trains rolling through every 15 minutes. Now, over 100 years since the boom time of Thurmond, the town is all but abandoned. Join a ranger as you walk through the remnants of the downtown district while learning more about this unique place and the people who lived there. This outdoors walking tour will cover approximately 0.25 miles one way on mostly flat paved and graveled walkways. Some terrain may become slightly uneven. Good shoes, water, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended. The path through town is located directly next to active CSX railroad mainline; loud freight trains may be encountered during the tour. Meet at the Thurmond Depot Visitor Center. The road to Thurmond is narrow and winding; RVs and trailers are not recommended on this road. Since parking is limited at the depot, overflow and large vehicle parking is available across the river in the Dunglen area. Visitors in this parking lot can access the town by walking across the road bridge.
*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="request-68dab67a-91a8-832c-8f16-9902584f3193-14" data-testid="conversation-turn-106" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="assistant"> 🚢🛠️ Deltaville Ship Modelers’ Guild ⚓ Build. Learn. Share. Set sail into the world of craftsmanship and creativity at the Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park ! The Ship Modelers’ Guild welcomes adults of all skill levels—from curious beginners to seasoned builders. Whether you’re starting your first model or refining advanced techniques, this is the perfect place to connect, learn, and create. 🎉 What to Expect: 🔧 Demonstrations of ship modeling tools & techniques 💬 Group discussions and skill-sharing 🚤 Show-and-tell of current projects 🤝 Advice and tips from fellow modelers 🌟 A welcoming, hands-on learning environment 📍 Meeting Details: When: Second Thursday of each month 🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM 📍 Location: Events Pavilion, 287 Jackson Creek Rd, Deltaville, VA 23043 ✨ Who Can Join? Open to adult museum members of all experience levels. Come build your skills—and your next model—alongside a community of passionate makers!
“We will proceed to the Ferry.” With these words, abolitionist John Brown launched an attack on the U.S. Armory at Harpers Ferry—an event that helped ignite the Civil War. Follow in the footsteps of Brown’s small “Provisional Army” during this solemn five-mile hike from his headquarters in Washington County, Maryland, to Harpers Ferry. This rarely offered experience invites participants to consider how acts of moral conviction have influenced the nation’s course across generations. In addition to the processional hike led by retired park Chief Historian Dennis Frye, this event includes shuttle service to Brown’s headquarters at the Kennedy Farm, presentations, music, and an authentic period meal. Registration is required. Cost: $200. Space is limited. This rain-or-shine event includes elevation changes and walking on road and gravel surfaces. Co-sponsored by the Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau, with support from the Shepherd University Civil War Center; Washington County, Maryland, Sheriff’s Office; and Washington County EMS.
Join rangers for spooky stories at Grandview Visitor Center under the moonlit sky of Grandview. Let your imagination run wild about what might lurk in the dark just out of sight! Meet at the Grandview Visitor Center
🎆Deltaville Maritime Museum Festival 🎉 Honoring Virginia’s 250 Years (VA250) Celebrate history, heritage, and waterfront fun at the Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park during a full day festival honoring Virginia’s 250th anniversary ! Enjoy the perfect mix of maritime tradition, community pride, and festival excitement along the beautiful waterfront. 🎶 Festival Highlights: 🎸 Live Music All Day – Multiple bands (TBA) keeping the energy high 🚗 Classic Car Show – Shine, chrome, and automotive history on display 🛍️ Local Vendors – Handmade goods, crafts, and local treasures 🚚 Food Trucks – Delicious eats for every taste 🧒 Children’s Activities – Fun, hands-on activities for kids 🚤 Free Boat Rides – Enjoy the water and the view 🥐 Bistro (opens at 9 AM) – Early bites to start your day right 🌊 Waterfront Views & Community Fun – Relax and explore all day long 📅 Event Details: Date: October 17, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Location: 287 Jackson Creek Rd, Deltaville, VA 23043 ✨ Come spend the day where history meets the harbor—celebrating Virginia’s past, present, and future with music, food, and community spirit!
America’s efforts to fulfill the promise of the Declaration of Independence have often involved conflict, sacrifice, and profound consequences. Few events were as dramatic as John Brown’s Raid on Harpers Ferry. Experience the raid through the perspectives of U.S. Marines, townspeople, formerly enslaved men and women, and John Brown himself. Join park staff and volunteers from the U.S. Marine Corps Historical Company to explore how the raid unfolded and transformed Harpers Ferry into a key site in American civil rights history. Sponsored by the Harpers Ferry Park Association and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
🎃👻 Scary Halloween in the Park 🕸️🌙 Free Family-Friendly Halloween Fun! Join us at the Deltaville Maritime Museum for a spooky (but fun!) Halloween tradition the whole family can enjoy! This FREE community event transforms Holly Point Nature Park into a safe, festive, and thrilling Halloween adventure for all ages. 🕷️ What You’ll Find: 🍬 Candy, Candy, Candy! – Treats at every turn 🎃 Perilous Pavilion (Less Scary Zone) – Candy stations hosted by volunteers & local businesses 🚜 Hayrides Through the “Field of Screams” – Ghosts, goblins & glowing “holo-illusions” 🌲 Wailin’ Woods (For the Brave!) – A spooky walk for the stout of heart 🅿️ Well-lit, convenient parking for all visitors 🍔 Food & Drinks: 🌭 Hot dogs ☕ Hot coffee 🍫 Hot chocolate 💧 Bottled water ✨ Event Highlights: 🎉 Completely FREE and open to all ages 🧡 Safe, family-friendly Halloween environment 🎭 Fun, spooky attractions for every scare level 🤝 Volunteer support from the local community 📅 Event Details: Date: October 31, 2026 🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM 📍 Location: 287 Jackson Creek Rd, Deltaville, VA 23043 👻 Come in costume, bring your friends, and enjoy a frightfully fun night at the park—if you dare! 🎃🌙
Let the park's vibrant autumn colors and significant history inspire you to get creative Saturday, November 1st! Grab your art supplies and meet a park ranger at 10 am at the Curtis Freewill Baptist Church parking lot (47 Storer College Pl, Harpers Ferry, WV). You will take a six-minute walk to the Lockwood House and Harper Cemetery where you will create art in plein air. This location has natural scenery, a vista, historic buildings, and a cemetery. According to projections, the leaves will likely be at peak color. The ranger will be with you until 2 pm but you are welcome to stay longer to finish your masterpiece. A portable restroom is available nearby. A limited number of art supplies are available to you and all skill levels and ages are welcome. Please bring something to sit on, portable art supplies, water, and your creativity. This program is free and is cohosted by our partners at the Harpers Ferry Park Association.
*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="request-68dab67a-91a8-832c-8f16-9902584f3193-14" data-testid="conversation-turn-106" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="assistant"> 🚢🛠️ Deltaville Ship Modelers’ Guild ⚓ Build. Learn. Share. Set sail into the world of craftsmanship and creativity at the Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park ! The Ship Modelers’ Guild welcomes adults of all skill levels—from curious beginners to seasoned builders. Whether you’re starting your first model or refining advanced techniques, this is the perfect place to connect, learn, and create. 🎉 What to Expect: 🔧 Demonstrations of ship modeling tools & techniques 💬 Group discussions and skill-sharing 🚤 Show-and-tell of current projects 🤝 Advice and tips from fellow modelers 🌟 A welcoming, hands-on learning environment 📍 Meeting Details: When: Second Thursday of each month 🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM 📍 Location: Events Pavilion, 287 Jackson Creek Rd, Deltaville, VA 23043 ✨ Who Can Join? Open to adult museum members of all experience levels. Come build your skills—and your next model—alongside a community of passionate makers!
🎄🎁 Holly Point Holiday Gift Market ❄️✨ Shop Local. Celebrate the Season. Enjoy the Waterfront. Kick off the holiday season at the Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park with a festive waterfront market filled with handmade treasures, seasonal cheer, and community spirit! 🛍️ What You’ll Find: 🎁 Handmade holiday gifts & seasonal décor 🎨 Local crafts from artisans & makers 🧶 One-of-a-kind creations perfect for gifting 🎄 A cozy, festive waterfront shopping experience 🍳 Holiday Brunch at the Tea House 🌟 Featured Vendors & Events: Fun & Games with Karen! DMM Modeler’s Guild Model Boat Show FD Crockett & Boat Shop Tours Captain Pete Cardozo & Discovery Cruises Holly Point Railroad Co. ✨ Event Highlights: 🛍️ Craftsmen, artists, and vendors from across the region 🌊 Beautiful holiday shopping by the water 🎁 Unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else 🎶 Relaxed, festive community atmosphere 📅 Event Details: Date: November 28, 2026 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM 📍 Location: 287 Jackson Creek Rd, Deltaville, VA 23043 🎄 Come shop, sip, and celebrate the magic of the holidays at Holly Point Market!
The Appalachian Trail is a 2,190+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. Conceived in 1921, built by private citizens, and completed in 1937, today the trail is managed by the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, numerous state agencies and thousands of volunteers.
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Over 41 million acres are connected through the waters that flow to and through Chesapeake Bay. The National Park Service strives to connect people to the opportunities and adventures throughout the watershed. Inspiring stewardship across this vast region supports recreation, business, tourism, learning, and a thriving natural resource for all to enjoy.
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through the homelands of more than 60 Tribal nations. It follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806 from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to the Pacific Ocean. Follow the trail to find the people, places, and stories that make up the complex legacy of the expedition.
Preserving America's early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural, and recreational treasures.
At the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, on the ancestral home of the Tuscarora and Shawnee people, lies Harpers Ferry. Here you can explore John Brown's Raid against slavery. Find your connection to the struggle for freedom, education, and civil rights at Storer College. Discover miles of trail in the Blue Ridge and along Civil War battlefields.
The Bluestone River and the rugged and ancient gorge it has carved is a richly diverse and scenic area of the southern Appalachians. Bluestone National Scenic River is preserved as a living landscape that provides an unspoiled experience for visitors and a haven for a variety of plants and animals. The park protects a 10.5-mile section of the Bluestone River in southern West Virginia.
The 25 miles of free-flowing Gauley River and the six miles of the Meadow River pass through scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide variety of natural and cultural features. The Gauley River contains several class V+ rapids, making it one of the most adventurous white water boating rivers in the east.
A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities.
