This Hidden Trail In West Virginia Leads To A Magnificent Archaeological Treasure

Harpers Ferry is one of the most popular tourist destinations in West Virginia, and the locals love it, too. But we must admit, it can be pretty crowded, so next time you go, add this hidden gem to your list of easy, all-season hikes. It's a bit less traveled than many of the area historical sites, but it's just as magnificent!

School House Ridge is a recent addition to Harpers Ferry National Historic Park.

The ridge crosses the Northeastern Shenandoah Valley, spanning between the Shenandoah River and the Potomac.

The schoolhouse it is named for was destroyed in the Civil War, but several ruins still remain standing in the area today.

Several of them can be seen from the School House Ridge South Trail on Millville Rd.

The most popular site along the trail is the Allstadt Farm ruin.

During John Brown's infamous raid on Harpers Ferry in the Civil War, the Allstadt family were taken prisoners.

In addition to farming, the Allstadt family operated a tavern from their home.

The site is archaeologically significant for several notable reasons, including its use as a farm, its role in the Civil War, and its proximity to a dolomite limestone mine quarry in the early 1900s.

To reach this trail, head to Millville Rd (just off of Highway 340) in Harpers Ferry. Look for the trail head between the intersections of Allstadts Hill Rd

and Olympic Way.

To learn more about accessing this hike, check out this information provided by the National Park Service about the Schoolhouse Ridge South Trail. The Allstadt Farm is specifically featured by the NPS here. Note that a portion of the southern end of the trail may be closed due to a sink hole.

Also, if you're looking for another easy historical hike at Harpers Ferry, try this one: You've Probably Never Been To The Jefferson Rock, An Underrated Famous Landmark In West Virginia.