Travel The Washington Heritage Trail To See West Virginia Through The Eyes Of America's Founders

From this ancient rock outcrop, take in the convergence of two beautiful iconic rivers below you the Potomac and the Shenandoah. Just think: 250 years ago, Thomas Jefferson stood in this very spot and gazed on the same scene.

In downtown Charles Town, the beautiful Jefferson County Courthouse has witnessed many historical events, including John Brown's trial for treason and Civil War occupation. Visitors can still enter the courtroom where John Brown's trial took place. Historical plaques and paintings can be seen inside and out. It is still a working courthouse, so to enter, you must pass through a security check.

The next block over, the Jefferson County Museum houses many historical artifacts related to George Washington, his brother Charles (who established the town), and John Brown.

Middleway Historic District just west of Charles Town dates back to the 1730s. The town was officially established in 1795, and many historic buildings dot the small community. These can be seen on the Middleway Walking Tour, which includes dozens of stone, log, and clapboard structures dating back to the 1700s.

Scottish-born Adam Stephen served under George Washington in the French and Indian War, then rose to the rank of General in the Revolutionary War. His home, built of locally quarried limestone, was built in 1774. General Stephen founded the town of Martinsburg in 1778. The house is open to the public on weekends from May through October.

The warm mineral springs here were known to the colonists as early as 1747, and to the American Indians long before that. The town was established in 1776 with many of the wealthy revolutionaries as its original property owners, included George Washington and his brother Samuel, 3 signers of the Declaration of Independence, Revolutionary War generals, and members of the Continental Congress. Dozens of historic buildings and sites are viewed and highlighted on the walking tour, including the two lots purchased by George Washington in 1777. Also, don't miss the spring itself in Berkeley Springs State Park, famously bathed in by George Washington.

This winding road along the Cacapon River encompasses some of the most beautiful views in the country, including the Panorama Overlook and many views of the river. George Washington surveyed the area and owned property nearby along the Potomac.