Thing to Do

Step Back in Time at Jefferson Rock

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

View of river from Jefferson Rock.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

"This scene is worth a voyage across the Atlantic." Thomas Jefferson

Jefferson Rock and wayside exhibit.
Jefferson Rock and wayside exhibit.

NPS/Martha Wassel

Visiting Jefferson Rock

Jefferson Rock derives it's name from Thomas Jefferson, who stood there on October 25, 1783. He described his first view from the landmark as a scene, "worth a voyage across the Atlantic." Four stone pillars were placed under the uppermost slab of Jefferson Rock to stabalize it sometime between 1855 and 1860. Today, visitors can hike up to Jefferson Rock from Lower Town, passing the African American History Museum and the Civil War Museum on High Street, St. Peter's Catholic Church and the ruins of St. John Episcopal Church.

Rules / Regulations

Please note the following regarding your safety and the protection of Jefferson Rock as a cultural resource:

  • Jefferson Rock is unstable.
  • Walking on, climbing, ascending, descending, or traversing Jefferson Rock or its supporting base rock is prohibited. [36 CFR 2.1 (a) (5)]

Scenic Views

Last updated: August 25, 2021