Last updated: January 11, 2024
Thing to Do
Walk Your Dog at Murphy Farm
You and your pets will enjoy the Murphy-Chambers Farm hike through fields and wooded ravines to see spectacular views of the Shenandoah River and the surrounding mountains, as well as Civil War cannons, earthworks and the footprint of the John Brown Fort.
The trail starts at the Visitor Center, but can also be accessed from a small parking area on the farm, which allows for an easy 0.75 mile stroll to the Shenandoah River overlook. From the Visitor Center, the trail crosses Shoreline Drive, goes down to a small creek and up to the unpaved farm entrance road. Here, hikers can stay on the road or go left and follow the tree line. Both trails lead to the overlook of the Shenandoah River. Near the overlook is the 1895-1909 site of the John Brown Fort and the Niagara Movement's 1906 pilgrimage. This was also the scene of Confederate General A.P. Hill's flanking maneuver in 1862.
From the overlook, hikers can follow a mulched trail that leads into the woods. This section of the trail goes to another view of the river and Civil War earthworks. The trail loops back to the farm road or turns left across a footbridge for 0.5 miles one way to a small creek.
Plan your visit with your dog appropriately by reviewing the park's pet page.
The trail starts at the Visitor Center, but can also be accessed from a small parking area on the farm, which allows for an easy 0.75 mile stroll to the Shenandoah River overlook. From the Visitor Center, the trail crosses Shoreline Drive, goes down to a small creek and up to the unpaved farm entrance road. Here, hikers can stay on the road or go left and follow the tree line. Both trails lead to the overlook of the Shenandoah River. Near the overlook is the 1895-1909 site of the John Brown Fort and the Niagara Movement's 1906 pilgrimage. This was also the scene of Confederate General A.P. Hill's flanking maneuver in 1862.
From the overlook, hikers can follow a mulched trail that leads into the woods. This section of the trail goes to another view of the river and Civil War earthworks. The trail loops back to the farm road or turns left across a footbridge for 0.5 miles one way to a small creek.
Plan your visit with your dog appropriately by 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 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 and the sun is up 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 and the sun is up 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 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 are ideal times 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
Dawn, Dusk
Early in the day and evening are the best times to be out at Murphy Farm.
Accessibility Information
This is a primarily dirt trail that goes 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.