Harpers Ferry in April: What to Expect
Buried in the Blue Ridge mountains, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is a quaint mountain town just one hour from Washington, DC.
Known for its countless outdoor adventures, notable mountain views, and family-friendly activities, April is the perfect time of year to take advantage of all that Harpers Ferry has to offer.
Come stay with us at Mountain Mama Cabins and enjoy the warm weather that springtime brings. We’ve put together the ultimate guide to getting the most out of your April visit to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.
April Weather in Harpers Ferry
April brings welcomed warm weather to Harpers Ferry. The average temperatures increase overall, with highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s.
April is the windiest month of the year, with wind speeds above 5 miles per hour. April also has a 41% chance of precipitation, making it likely that you will experience some rain while you are visiting.
This mild springtime weather makes it perfect to enjoy all of the indoor and outdoor activities awaiting you at Harpers Ferry.
Best Things to Do in April in Harpers Ferry
It won’t surprise anyone that Harpers Ferry in April is the perfect time to catch some of the region’s best outdoor activities. The combination of mild temperatures, blooming flora, and the resurgence of wildlife creates an idyllic setting for hiking, biking, and exploring the stunning natural landscapes.
1. Go Whitewater Rafting
Located at the confluence of the Potomac River and the Shenandoah River, Harpers Ferry is a dream destination for whitewater rafting.
The portion of the river that is typically accessed for whitewater rafting offers a mix of Class I-III rapids. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, it’s the perfect environment for getting out and enjoying the sport. Springtime offers higher water levels, providing plenty of waves for your rafting trip.
There are a few different companies that offer guided rafting trips, including River Riders and Harpers Ferry Adventure Center. They both offer guided trips for beginners and equipment rentals for experienced rafters. Head to their websites to learn more about pricing and availability.
2. Hike the Appalachian Trail
Harpers Ferry boasts plenty of incredible experiences, but one of the most notable is its access to the Appalachian Trail. In fact, Harpers Ferry is located at the halfway point of the AT, an iconic spot for thru-hikers to get mail, connect with loved ones, and celebrate this milestone.
While a thru-hike might not be for you, there are plenty of hiking trails to enjoy along this portion of the AT. Maryland Heights Trail, a moderate 4.5-mile hike, starts in Lower Town and ends at the Maryland Heights Trail Overlook. It includes time on the Appalachian Trail while offering incredible views of the town, rivers, and beyond.
For a short hike the whole family can enjoy, head to Jefferson Rock. This easy hike gives you both a taste of the Appalachian Trail and American history while providing incredible views of Harpers Ferry.
Pro tip: Spring is the perfect time to go wildflower hunting on your hiking trips. From Virginia bluebells to sunflowers and more; they are in full bloom this time of year.
3. Enjoy Kayaking Down the River
If you’re looking for a more relaxing water sport than whitewater rafting, kayaking is the perfect activity.
The Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers offer a 7-mile stretch of mostly Class I and II rapids, perfect for kayaking. Experienced kayakers can launch in this section and enjoy the natural beauty around them as they float down the river.
For beginners and those looking for a guided trip, Harpers Ferry Adventure Center offers a variety of kayaking experiences, from whitewater kayaking to flatwater kayaking. Head to their website to explore your options and secure your spot.
4. Explore Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
It’s no secret that Harpers Ferry is famous for its rich American history. In fact, the entire town is part of the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, offering visitors a seamless way to tour the many historic sites nearby.
April is the perfect time to tour the park on foot. Start at the Visitor Center in Lower Town and make your way to historic buildings along the path, such as John Brown’s Fort, St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, and the blacksmith’s shop. Check out our full guide before your walking tour to make sure you don’t miss any of the Civil War battlefields in town.
April 2025 Events in Harpers Ferry
Blue Ridge Arts & Crafts Festival
- Date: April 26, 2025
- Location: Sam Michael’s Park | 235 Sam Michael’s Lane, Harpers Ferry, WV
Every year, Sam Michael’s Park hosts the annual Blue Ridge Arts & Crafts Festival. This one-day event features around 70 local artists, food trucks, and live music. The event is free and open to the public. It’s a great chance to support local artists, enjoy delicious food, and have a family-friendly day of fun.
Flip Flop Festival
- Date: April 25-April 27, 2025
- Location: Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) | 799 Washington St, Harpers Ferry, WV
Led by the Appalachian Trail Conservatory, the Flip Flop Festival is a fun and educational event that supports thru-hikers as they begin their journey along the Appalachian Trail. This free event features hiking workshops, a cookout, and a send-off breakfast for ‘flip flop’ thru-hikers – those taking an alternative route along the trail.
Phoenix Fest
- Date: April 2025
- Location: Mountain Lake Club | 1329 Lakeside Drive, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Mountain Lake Club hosts the annual Phoenix Fest, a three-day festival that celebrates the culture of the Appalachian Mountains through music. Featuring both local and touring bands, be prepared for everything from bluegrass to jazz to rock n’ roll; the options are endless at Phoenix Fest.
Packing for Your April Trip
April brings unpredictable weather, with some days being warm and sunny and others being cool and windy. We want to make sure you come fully prepared for all possibilities. Here are our packing list recommendations:
- Plenty of layers
- Outerwear for colder days
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hiking gear
- Rain jacket and umbrella
- Water gear for kayaking and whitewater rafting
Where to Stay for an April Getaway to Harpers Ferry
It’s no secret that we love Harpers Ferry year-round. But there’s something special about welcoming Spring in this quaint mountain town.
No activity is off-limits. From action-packed whitewater rafting trips to relaxing strolls through Downtown Harpers Ferry, it’s the perfect time of year to take advantage of all the indoor and outdoor activities around.
Come stay with us at Mountain Mama Cabins and see for yourself how magical Harpers Ferry is in April.
