Conquer the Treetops: Harpers Ferry’s Aerial Adventure Park
High Ropes Obstacle Course
You climb the wooden ladder and the forest changes around you. Leaves chatter like an audience, the Potomac’s distant murmur draws the eye along the valley, and the world narrows to a single line of cable that seems to dare you forward. At Harpers Ferry’s Aerial Adventure Park, the trees are not just scenery — they’re architecture, scaffolding for a course that asks you to re-learn balance, timing, and a little bit of nerve. Whether you’re coaxing a five-year-old across their first kid-sized zipline or testing your grip on a black-course traverse, this is the kind of day that reconfigures what you think of as “outdoors.”
Trail Wisdom
Book Early
Weekend slots fill fast—reserve your two-hour session in advance to guarantee your preferred start time.
Waivers Ahead
Complete emailed waivers before arrival to save time at check-in and ensure your group starts promptly.
Closed-Toe Shoes Only
Sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes are required; no sandals, Crocs, or flip-flops for safety.
Bring Water & Layers
Carry a small water bottle and a light layer—platforms can be breezy even on warm days.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the short trail to the Potomac overlook for river views few visitors see
- •Explore Harpers Ferry Lower Town’s quiet side streets for historic architecture and small cafés
Wildlife
White-tailed deer, Red-tailed hawks
Conservation Note
The park emphasizes minimal-impact recreation—stay on platforms and access routes, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing nesting or shoreline habitats.
Harpers Ferry sits at the historic confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers and played a pivotal role in 19th-century U.S. history, including John Brown's 1859 raid.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: New climbers, Cooler temperatures, Green canopy views
Challenges: Mud at ground level, Occasional rain showers
Spring offers crisp air and fresh foliage, making movement through the course comfortable; plan for occasional wet conditions on early-season days.
summer
Best for: Family outings, Longer daylight, Combining with water activities
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Crowded weekends
Summer is popular for families and can be hot—arrive early and hydrate, and use shade between courses to cool down.
fall
Best for: Fall foliage, Photographic vistas, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Peak visitor season, Cooler mornings
Fall is the ideal season for colors and comfortable climbing temps—book ahead for prime foliage weekends.
winter
Best for: Off-peak solitude, Clear views on chilly days
Challenges: Cold, icy platforms, Reduced operating days
Winter visits are quieter but more exposed; expect limited operations and bring warm, insulated layers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Provide traction on platforms and safety when moving between elements.
Lightweight gloves (leather or climbing)
Improve grip on ropes and ziplines; organizers supply gloves but many prefer their own.
Hydration bottleEssential
Small, refillable bottle to stay hydrated during the two-hour session.
Sun layer or windbreaker
A thin outer layer keeps you comfortable on breezy platforms.
Common Questions
What are the age and weight requirements?
Participants must weigh between 40–265 lbs. Children 4–6 can access the Chicken Little course (40–60 lbs); older youth must follow progression rules for higher-difficulty trails.
Do I need prior experience?
No prior experience is required—the goal is that beginners can learn the safety systems and progress at their own pace after the briefing.
How long does a session last?
Sessions are scheduled for about 2 hours from check-in to completion; arrive one hour early to complete waivers and gear fitting.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes; tie back long hair and avoid loose jewelry.
Are reservations required?
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and foliage season; the park requires a minimum of four guests for an activity to run.
Can we combine this with rafting or tubing?
Yes—ask about the Adventure Pass to add rafting, tubing, or the Zipline Canopy Tour for a full-day outdoor itinerary.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes for safety; small water bottle to stay hydrated; lightweight gloves for grip; light wind layer for changing temperatures
Did You Know
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park protects the site where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet and preserves key Civil War-era locations, including John Brown's 1859 raid site.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Fill waivers online before arrival; 2) Arrive 60 minutes early for gear fitting; 3) Bring ID that matches the reservation name; 4) Reserve weekend slots well in advance
Local Flavor
After your harness comes off, head into Harpers Ferry’s Lower Town for local cafés and historic streets — The Anvil Restaurant & Saloon offers hearty fare and a relaxed spot to compare notes; for more dining variety, cross the river to Shepherdstown.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Washington Dulles (IAD) ~55 miles (1–1.5 hours). Meeting point: 408 Alstadts Hill Rd, Harpers Ferry, WV. Driving from Harpers Ferry town center: ~10–15 minutes. Cell service: generally available near the office; intermittent on some higher platforms. Permits: No special permits required, but signed waivers and photo ID are mandatory.
Sustainability Note
This park sits within a sensitive river-valley ecosystem—pack out all trash, stay on designated access paths, and follow staff guidance to minimize tree and soil impacts.