The Gregarious Railfan
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425   (population, 290 [2013])        

GPS: N 39.32460, W 77.73127   Google map   

Scanner: CSX 160.230 [8], 160.320 [14], 161.100 [66], 161.520 [94]  

Railroad:  CSX Baltimore Division, Cumberland Sub; CSX Baltimore Division, Shenandoah Sub

Description: Harpers Ferry is situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers where the U.S. states
of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia meet. It is served by Amtrak and MARC, There is a pedestrian Walkway on the
south side of the south CSX RR Bridge (N 39.32322, W 77.72977), part of the Appalachian Trail.

Approximate # trains per 24 hours: Amtrak provides service to Harpers Ferry two times a day (once in each
direction). It is also served by the MARC commuter rail service, on its Brunswick Line. The city's passenger rail station
is located at the West Virginia end of the historic railroad bridge across the Potomac River. In addition about 20 - 25
CSX freight trains daily pass through Harpers Ferry and over the bridge spanning the Potomac River. Be advised that
although there are many times when train traffic is VERY heavy, there are also plenty of Lulls lasting hours long.
When I was there in 2008 for about 5 hours, I struck out and saw a total of ZERO trains.

Other interesting or fun stuff: The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) headquarters is located in Harpers Ferry
and the town is one of only a few through which the Appalachian Trail passes directly. Harpers Ferry is also an
outdoor recreation destination. Popular activities include white water rafting, fishing, mountain biking, tubing, canoeing,
hiking, zip lining, and rock climbing.

Photo opportunities: The RR bridges and tunnels across the Potomac River provide great photo ops.

Local Fast Food: Most places are touristy, more choices in Charlestown 5 miles west

Local Pub and grub: Secret Six Tavern, 186 High St (View of the tracks from the deck, I’m told)
N 39.32386, W 77.73166

Lodging: Bed and Breakfasts or better choices for more reasonable prices in Charlestown, 5 miles west.

Visitor Info:   Harpers Ferry-Bolivar Historic Town Foundation   
<Clik for Harpers Ferry, WV weather>
Map courtesy of Todd Sestero
RAILFAN GUIDES of the U.S.
Map   
Todd Sestero's RAILFAN GUIDES of the U.S. Harpers Ferry Page
Links