If you are like most Washingtonians then by August you are already wishing for fall. Let’s be honest, fall is one of the best times in DC. The weather is perfect and the colors are spectacular. Also once the humidity of the summer ends, it’s an ideal time for hiking. We found the most picture perfect fall hike near DC that you need to take to see the brightest and most beautiful fall foliage.
Harpers Ferry is an hour drive outside of DC. It’s a charming town surrounded by incredible nature. It’s also the setting of the Loudoun Heights trail.
Flickr/Jerry Edmundson
Loudoun Heights is a 6.6 mile loop that offers hikers the best views of fall foliage and historic Harpers Ferry.
Flickr/HarpersFerryNPS
Loudoun Heights is not only stunning but its historical. During the Civil War General “Stonewall” Jackson used Loudoun Heights as a staging ground for the bombardment of the town during the Battle of Harpers Ferry.
Yelp/Brandi K.
While there aren’t many remaining buildings, there are still a few historical sites you can see along the trail including the ruins of St. John’s Episcopal Church.
Yelp/Priscilla T.
The trail also takes you to Jefferson Rock, which is part of the Appalachian Trail. Historians say that Thomas Jefferson visited this spot in the 1700s.
Yelp/Priscilla T.
The rock is a perfect place to stop for a photo op of the town and rivers below.
Flickr/Michel Curi
Continuing on the trail, you’ll see historic Harper Cemetery which has existed as long as the town itself has existed.
Flickr/Bill Rand
The trail takes you across a footbridge crossing the Shenandoah River where you will then head up the steeper parts of the trail.
Yelp/Michel C.
All along the trail, you can enjoy stunning overlooks of the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers and beautiful Harpers Ferry.
Yelp/Mike Boswell
The trail can be steep and rocky in places but you’ll be rewarded by incredible views of the surrounding area.
Flickr/Random Michelle
After the hike, stop off into town for a bite to eat and shopping and touring Harpers Ferry.
Flickr/Andrew Aliferis
Whether you just want to soak up fall or need a fantastic hike, the Loudoun Heights trail is the perfect trail for you!
Flickr/Emily
For more on Harpers Ferry, learn more about it here!
Flickr/Jerry Edmundson
Flickr/HarpersFerryNPS
Yelp/Brandi K.
Yelp/Priscilla T.
Yelp/Priscilla T.
Flickr/Michel Curi
Flickr/Bill Rand
Yelp/Michel C.
Yelp/Mike Boswell
Flickr/Random Michelle
Flickr/Andrew Aliferis
Flickr/Emily
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