View of the water gap and the Blue Ridge Mountains from the Point.
When visiting the park, the natural features of the area can almost be overwhelming. From the rollingBlue Ridge Mountainsthat steeply rise above the historic district to the rushing waters of thePotomacandShenandoahRiversbordering the town, one is in awe of the surrounding beauty. Seventy percent of the park is covered with eastern deciduous forest with the predominant soil type here being a shaly silt loam. Quartzite, phyllite, and limestone are the predominant rock types, each playing a role in the formation of such popular sights as the Stone Steps and the water gap. Floodplain communities line the banks of thePotomacandShenandoahRivers. Visitors have the opportunity to experience these plus many more beautiful and exciting natural features.
Did You Know?
The Appalachian Trail runs through Harpers Ferry. A short walk along the trail from the lower town to the C&O Canal will take you from West Virginia to Maryland in just a few minutes.