Harpers Ferry is a town trapped in the 19th century

The town became famous in 1859 when a fiery abolitionist named John Brown organized a raid on a U.S. government arsenal of weapons at Harpers Ferry. After an initial success and occupation of the armory, federal militias arrived and captured the raiders. Although Brown's hope of sparking a broad slave revolt failed, his actions are now viewed as an indicator of the strong anti-slavery sentiments that soon would lead to the Civil War.

The 19th-century guardhouse and firehouse where Brown was captured, now known as John Brown's Fort, is a popular feature of the park.

Visitors can learn more about the controversial revolt at the John Brown Museum, which features a film about the historic raid every half hour. The community also has a museum dedicated to the Civil War's Battle of Harpers Ferry in 1862, in which Union forces eventually surrendered after enduring an attack from General Robert E. Lee's command. The park also preserved the Bolivar Heights Battlefield, which was the site of one of the first battles of the Civil War in 1861.

For an additional fee, visitors can tour the John Brown Wax Museum to view life-sized dioramas with voice, music, and animation showing an enactment of the historic raid.

Another significant building is Storer College, a historically black college that was the location of the first meeting of the Niagara Movement group of Civil Rights activists organized by W.E.B. De Bois in 1906. That meeting is now recognized as an important landmark in Civil Rights history.

Hikers can enjoy the park's many trails, offering views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. It also is the midpoint to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, a footpath that traverses more than 2,000 miles, and the home of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy headquarters and visitor center. Sightseers also can stroll along the towpath of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park by crossing the footbridge over the Potomac River.

The 20 miles of hiking trails at Harpers Ferry span a wide variety of difficulty. For especially stunning overlook views with more than 1,400 feet elevation, try the challenging (but famously beautiful) Maryland Heights Trail (6.5 miles). The Loudon Heights trail (7.5 miles) is nearly as high. For a shorter walk, the Bolivar Heights and School House Ridge North trails offer easier terrain with less climbing. Be prepared to see herons, hawks, deer, and other wildlife along the way.

For book lovers, a must-visit destination is the Harpers Ferry Park Association Bookshop, a regional landmark that is well stocked with Civil War history volumes. You can also browse commemorative items and other distinctive souvenirs.