Historic and eclectic small towns and incredible scenic beauty define the historic Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. Just a short drive from major urban centers, Jefferson County, WV is full of famous and unique trails that will lead you on hiking, tasting, sipping, and other delightful adventures.
Jefferson County features walkable downtowns and famous hiking trails all inter- connected for easy access. There are plenty of opportunities for hikers to go for a short stroll or an invigorating multi-mile trek. The legendary Appalachian Trail runs right through Harpers Ferry, near the headquarters and visitor center of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Pick up a guidebook or chat about your hiking plans at the conservancy’s visitor center, then get underway: Nearby, a blaze leads to a footbridge over the Potomac River and continues to the historic C&O Canal. From the C&O, long-distance hikers can connect to the Great Allegheny Passage, a rails-to-trails route that spans 150 miles from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C.
If you prefer to sip your way through the county, try some of these local favorites. Located within the Bavarian Inn Resort, Bavarian Brothers Brewing makes on-site brews that “Remember our European Roots, and Embrace our West Virginia Location.”
In the heart of downtown Charles Town since 2017, Abolitionist Ale Works specializes in creating unique and flavorful craft beer. Their emphasis is on unique IPA, Sour Ales, Wild Ales, Saisons, Strong Ales and Stouts.
Devil’s Due Distillery focuses on local provenance, sourcing from within 100 miles of their facility. The Bourbon is sweet and smokey – aged to perfection. The Rye is spicy and ready for sipping. The Maple Whiskey will have you looking around for a stack of hotcakes. And the Vodka is pure heaven.
The Jefferson County Libations Trail features all the best places to enjoy a cold beer, unique cocktails, and delicious wines. Lilah in Shepherdstown is a go-to for an incredible selection of amazing cocktails. Snallygaster’s Cafe & Wine Bar in Bolivar is the perfect spot for a post-hike glass of wine. Grab a cold brew at Glory Days Sports Bar in Ranson. Or take some wine back to your room from Pour Choices Wine in Charles Town.
Jefferson County has long been known for a metropolitan dining scene in our historic and eclectic small towns of Shepherdstown, Charles Town, Ranson, Bolivar and Harpers Ferry. Jefferson County is also a great place to enjoy a morning cup of your favorite coffee and to delight your sweet tooth. Check out our favorite coffee shops, sweet shops, candy stores, ice cream shops and bakeries on our Sweets Trail.
After a full day of following your trail, relax at one of our local hotels all conveniently located close to all the action. Choose from the Bavarian Inn, Clarion Inn, Inn at Charles Town, Turf Motel, Hampton Inn, Quality Inn, Home2 Suites, Wyndham, and Holiday Inn Express. View all Lodging Options.
Find all of our trails on our Themed Trails page of our website and plan your fall escape to Jefferson County, WV.
