There is nothing like a short trail leading to a gorgeous view, and the Weverton Cliffs hike is one such hike.
About two miles out and back, the Weverton Cliffs hike is moderately challenging, but the many switchbacks along the trail make it feel easier.
It’s a fun, short hike that can be done any time of year. We completed the trail in February after a light snowfall, and the care trees covered in snow provided incredible views as we made our way to the cliffs.
This trail is very popular. Even in the winter, on a twenty-something-degree day, we encountered several people! So you’ll want to visit during the week or early on the weekends to avoid the crowds. It would also make a beautiful sunrise or sunset hike.
If you’re thinking about hiking to Weverton Cliffs, the guide below has everything you need to know. So, let’s start planning your next adventure!
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Weverton Cliffs Hike on the Appalachian Trail
Weverton Cliffs is a popular section of the Appalachian Trail in Maryland for day hikers. The moderate trail is just over 2 miles out and back and features several switchbacks, a rare find along the Appalachian Trail. It takes about an hour to complete the trail.
The 180° views of the Potomac River from the Cliffs are gorgeous. And you can even see Maryland Heights (the popular hike near Harpers Ferry) in the distance.
This section of the Appalachian Trail is perfect for hiking in any season, even in the winter. You may want to use hiking poles for stability up the steep sections and over the rocks at the cliffs.
Prepare For Your Hike to Weverton Cliffs
Parking
There is a decent-sized parking lot at the trailhead for Weverton Cliffs at the corner of Weverton Road and Weverton Cliff Road. It holds about two dozen cars. Shoulder parking is available on Weverton Cliff Road if the lot is full.
Amenities
There are no bathrooms at the Weverton Cliffs trailhead. However, if you need to use the restroom before or after your hike, there is an Exxon gas station about four minutes west on US-340.
Wildlife
Maryland has many types of wildlife, including black bears and poisonous snakes. Always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for the wildlife.
Pets
Dogs are allowed on the trail to Weverton Cliffs. However, smaller dogs may have difficulty navigating the cliffs’ rocks.
Be a Responsible Visitor
As you visit this trail, remember to respect nature. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
The more popular these destinations become, the more we need to be diligent about keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
The Trail to Weverton Cliffs
- Trail Location: Weverton Road in Knoxville, Maryland
- Trail Length: 2.25 miles, out-and-back (from the parking lot)
- Trail Difficult: Moderate – it is steep in some sections, but the switchbacks ease the difficulty
- Elevation Gain: 630 feet
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Trailhead
You can pick up the Weverton Cliffs trail in two different ways.
Some websites will direct you to make a right out of the parking lot, walk along Weverton Cliff Road, and then make a right onto Weverton Cliff Road to grab the trail on your left. You’ll see a sign and the stone steps.
We wanted to avoid walking the road, so we picked up the Appalachian Trail at the southern end of the parking lot. There is a short trail with blue blazes that will connect you to the Appalachian Trail. Make a left (go north!) and follow that to Weverton Cliff Road. Cross the road and follow the stone steps up the trail.
Along the Trail
It takes about one mile to reach the cliffs. The trail is pleasant, with several switchbacks, making it feel easy compared to other sections of the Appalachian Trail. However, several stone staircases are found along the trail, and they can be slippery after a snowfall, so be cautious.
If you’re visiting in the winter, you can see glimpses of the river through the trees, giving you a taste of what to expect at the top.
At the Cliffs
After about 8/10 mile, you’ll encounter a sign directing you to the cliffs. Follow the blue blazes about 2/10 mile to the overlook.
The cliffs are rocky and require some scrambling. You’ll have to climb down the rocks to get the best river view without the trees in the way. The outcropping is large enough to find a place to sit away from the crowds.
Look for the plaque dedicated to Goodloe E. Byron, a Maryland state legislator and congressman who advocated for the protection of the Appalachian Trail. It’s on the eastern side of the cliffs.
Alternate Hike to Weverton Cliffs
If a two-mile hike feels too short, you can extend your hike to Weverton Cliffs by parking at the Appalachian Trail and C&O Canal parking area on Keep Tryst Road. Picking up the Appalachian Trail here will make the out-and-back about 3 miles long.
Other Hikes Near Weverton Cliffs
Thanks to the Appalachian Trail and the area’s geography, there are plenty of great hiking trails near Weverton Cliffs, which is close to Frederick and Harpers Ferry.
At Harpers Ferry, many hikers enjoy the trails to Maryland Heights and Loudon Heights. Both are much longer and more difficult than Weverton Cliffs.
Other popular sections of the Appalachian Trail include the Annapolis Rock and Black Rock Cliff trail and the very easy Washington Monument trail.
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