When most folks visit Harpers Ferry, there is so much to see and do that a walk through a former abandoned mill town is often overlooked. Many don’t realize the extent to which this abandoned 19th-century village is so painstakingly preserved. But a stroll through this once-thriving former town is a must-do on your next visit to historic Harpers Ferry. You’re going to love hiking through Virginius Island in West Virginia.

This abandoned island in Virginia is easily accessed from this small bridge over the Shenandoah Canal from Shenandoah Street. (Other access points from downtown Harpers Ferry are also in place.)
Google / maps streetview
From here you can wander the entire 13-acre island and marvel at the ruins of this abandoned old town.
At its height just prior to the Civil War, Virginius Island had approximately 180 residents who lived in some 20 houses.
National Park Service
For much of the 1800s, the island was home to a cotton mill that was later converted into a flour mill. It was also home to other businesses, and many gardens and small orchards.
The island was created by happenstance in the early 1800s after the Shenandoah Canal was dug.
Google/Tim Stewart
After some mills were developed upstream, debris was washed downstream, eventually creating the small island that would become home to both residents and industry.
A hike or stroll around the island delivers much in the way of old ruins that remain.
alltrails/indiana jones
Much evidence of the factories, foundries, homes and the warehouses is intact and easily viewed. Visitors can walk around the island and perhaps travel on many of the same footpaths between buildings that the former residents used.

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Part of the Harpers Ferry National Historic Park, Virginius Island holds much history of the Harpers Ferry area.
Google/Tim Stewart
From its inception in 1801 through the early 1900s, the ownership of the island changed hands several times; each new owner made or attempted improvements to business and employment opportunities for the island's residents. The National Park Service has repaired and restored many of the ruins, such as the water tunnels shown above. The tunnels we essential elements in getting water to the industries that depended upon it to power their machinery.
Throughout the island, you'll find helpful kiosks placed by the National Park Service.
Google/Tim Stewart
In this image, a kiosk illustrates the former site of one of the many homes on the island and gives a bit of history of a family who lived in the home.
Even though the island was inhabited until 1936, the island's industries never bounced back after the Civil War, leaving the island to experience a sharp decline after the end of the war.
alltrails/Megan Remener
And then, in 1936, the area's worst flood of record forced the few remaining residents to leave and never return.
Today, Virginius Island is one of the most fascinating abandoned places in Virginia and it is open for freely exploring the island's abandoned town and the ruins that remain. Several trails are available, including a rail trail that once carried goods to and from the cotton and flour mill along the Shenandoah River.
Google/Tim Stewart

Virginius Island is home to one of the most fascinating abandoned places in West Virginia. Want to visit and hike the Virginius Island trail in West Virginia?  Trails leading from the entrance to Harpers Ferry National Historic Park at the intersection of Shenandoah Street and Potomac Street also lead to Virginius Island. Learn more about the island on the official website of the National Park Service.

Love exploring Harpers Ferry? So do we! Check out this massive family campground and also plan on taking a unique hike that takes you through three states!

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More to Explore

Abandoned Places in West Virginia

Elisa Regulski | December 16, 2019

Are there any other abandoned places in West Virginia?

There are so many fascinating abandoned places in West Virginia, such as:

  • The Hilltop House Hotel, also in Harpers Ferry, is an intriguing piece of the past. This structure once stood as a majestic destination hotel, but a fire left the building unstable. All that remains are the glimmers of what might have been.
  • St. John's Episcopal Church is another must-visit spot in West Virginia. During the Civil War, this church suffered significant damage. Visitors can see the ruins up close when they visit Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
  • Lake Shawnee Amusement Park is another eerie abandoned destination. Journey to the town of Rock, West Virginia and see it for yourself. The park closed after a tragic accident, and it’s now privately owned. Sometimes, the owners open up their doors for tours.

 

Does West Virginia have any ghost towns?

If you’re looking for ghost towns in West Virginia, you’re in luck. There are several unique places to visit in this great state.

  • Kaymoor offers an intriguing look at West Virginia’s past. Here, you can see what life was like in West Virginia’s old mining towns. You can even explore a historic mine! Be sure to bring your walking shoes -- you’ll need to descend 821 stairs in order to reach it.
  • Nuttallburg. The sweeping views in this mining town will make you fall in love with West Virginia all over again.

 

What are the best hiking trails in West Virginia?

The best hiking trails in West Virginia are:

  • The Seneca Rocks Trail. Venture to Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area and explore 3.5 miles of perfectly maintained walking paths. This moderate hike leads you to an observation platform.
  • Endless Wall Trail near Lansing. This 2.7-mile loop is full of non-stop beauty. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular hikes in West Virginia!

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Virginius Island, West Virginia, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, USA