Last updated: September 3, 2026
Thing to Do
Walk Your Dog at Murphy-Chambers Farm
You and your leashed pet will enjoy the Murphy-Chambers Farm hike through fields and wooded ravines. The trail takes you to a beautiful view of the Shenandoah River and Blue Ridge Mountains; Civil War cannons and earthworks; and the site where John Brown's Fort was once preserved.
The trail starts at the Visitor Center, but can also be accessed from a small parking lot located near the farmhouse. Parking here allows for an easy 0.75 mile stroll on a gravel path to the Shenandoah River overlook. If you walk from the Visitor Center, the trail crosses Shoreline Drive, descends a small ravine, then ascends to the gravel entrance road. Here, hikers can follow the road straight to the Murphy-Chambers farmhouse and the Civil War to Civil Rights trailhead. Alternatively, hikers can turn left and follow the tree line for a shadier route.
From the gravel section of the trail, hikers can follow a short loop trail through a peaceful woodland to a Civil War earthwork. Here, Union General Philip Sheridan and his men built a fortification in 1864 to defend this location from the Confederates.
At the southernmost portion of the trail, you'll encounter an overlook of the Shenandoah River and the 1895-1909 site of John Brown's Fort. It was here that the Niagara Movement made their 1906 pilgrimage. This was also the scene of Civil War Confederate General A.P. Hill's flanking maneuver in 1862. The trail then heads back north to the parking lot and Visitor Center.
Plan your visit with your dog appropriately by:
The trail starts at the Visitor Center, but can also be accessed from a small parking lot located near the farmhouse. Parking here allows for an easy 0.75 mile stroll on a gravel path to the Shenandoah River overlook. If you walk from the Visitor Center, the trail crosses Shoreline Drive, descends a small ravine, then ascends to the gravel entrance road. Here, hikers can follow the road straight to the Murphy-Chambers farmhouse and the Civil War to Civil Rights trailhead. Alternatively, hikers can turn left and follow the tree line for a shadier route.
From the gravel section of the trail, hikers can follow a short loop trail through a peaceful woodland to a Civil War earthwork. Here, Union General Philip Sheridan and his men built a fortification in 1864 to defend this location from the Confederates.
At the southernmost portion of the trail, you'll encounter an overlook of the Shenandoah River and the 1895-1909 site of John Brown's Fort. It was here that the Niagara Movement made their 1906 pilgrimage. This was also the scene of Civil War Confederate General A.P. Hill's flanking maneuver in 1862. The trail then heads back north to the parking lot and Visitor Center.
Plan your visit with your dog appropriately by:
- Keeping your pet leashed at all times.
- Packing out all trash (there are no trash cans at Murphy-Chambers Farm).
- Keeping a respectful distance from wildlife.
- Reviewing the park's pet page.
Details
Duration
45-90 Minutes
The trail is just over a mile. Take your time to let your pup take in the scents. There are also exhibits that explain the history of the family who lived here, the battle action that took place here, and the relationship of Murphy Farm to other parts of the battlefield.
Activity
Hiking
Murphy-Chambers Farm is a great place to take your dog for a walk. Deer roam here and leave their prints and scent. You may see them across the fields especially in the morning or evening. Rabbits can be seen along the lane or the trail through the field. A variety of birds are also plentiful.
Pets Allowed
Yes
You are required to leash your dog and clean up after them.
This is a trash free facility so please take the waste with you.
Deer and other animals bring ticks with them so be aware and prepare to treat your dog.
If the weather is hot, take water for you and your dog.
This is a trash free facility so please take the waste with you.
Deer and other animals bring ticks with them so be aware and prepare to treat your dog.
If the weather is hot, take water for you and your dog.
Activity Fee
Yes
Entrance Fees for Harpers Ferry NHP
Park passes may be purchased at the Cavalier Heights Entrance Station near the park's Visitor Center, Bolivar Heights, Maryland Heights, Harpers Ferry Train Station, and River Access Parking Lot. Credit cards are accepted only at the Entrance Station. Passes may also be purchased online.
Vehicle Pass - $20.00 per single, private vehicle (excludes group tours and 7+ passenger vans - visit the Group Fees and Reservations page for more information).
Motorcycle Pass - $15.00
Individual Pass - $10.00 per person arriving on foot or bicycle
Harpers Ferry Annual Pass - $35.00 - valid for one year from month of purchase for Harpers Ferry NHP only. Admits pass-holder and passengers in a single, private vehicle (excluding groups) or immediate family if entering by other means. Nontransferable. Can be purchased at the Cavalier Heights Entrance Station near the Visitor Center.
Location
Murphy-Chambers Farm
Make your first stop the park visitor center for directions to the Murphy-Chambers Farm.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Almost any time during the winter, spring, or fall is ideal to walk here. The warmer it is, the hotter it will become for you and your dog. On warm days, plan to walk early or late, as there is limited shade. If you plan to hike in the summer, be aware of increased heat, humidity, and hazards such as ticks. Please be sure to bring plenty of water for you and your dog.
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Early in the day and evening are the best times to be out at Murphy Farm.
Accessibility Information
This trail traverses gravel, earth, and mowed grass paths through rolling hills. Expect wet areas, moderate slopes, and little shade. Some areas may be uneven and/or steeper as you get closer to the river.