Jefferson Rock, Rock formation on Appalachian Trail in Harpers Ferry, United States
Jefferson Rock is a stone formation made of stacked shale layers that rises about 417 feet above where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers converge. The formation sits along the Appalachian Trail and offers views of the river valleys below.
The rocks were visited and documented by Thomas Jefferson in 1783, which gave the location its historical importance. During the 1850s, stone supports were added to stabilize the loosening stone formation.
Thomas Jefferson visited this location in 1783 and was drawn to the view where two rivers meet through the mountain ridges. His visit made this spot meaningful to many people.
The trail to this viewpoint uses stone steps starting near the African American History Museum and requires sturdy footwear due to uneven ground. The climb is steep but relatively brief.
Four stone pillars built between the 1850s and 1860s still hold up the uppermost slab and remain visible to visitors today. These early repairs show how long people have valued this landmark.
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