The Appalachian Trail

Last Saturday Ron and I drove down to Harper’s Ferry WV to do some exploring, both of the quaint, historic city and the Appalachian Trail.  The AT headquarters is there, and as that is on Ron’s ‘bucket list’ (NOT on mine, I might add!), we stopped to get some information and inspiration.  I do believe I may have gotten more of both than he did!

I really had a good time, both browsing the Conservancy and hiking the trail.  We went about 4 or so miles, in the rain, over rough and often slippery terrain.  The views were wonderful, and the rocks and mountains were beautiful. Low-hanging clouds on the mountain; crossing both the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, Jefferson Rock, even the AT signs!  I hope to someday do it again – but 4 or so miles is probably my limit.  None of this 2,180 miles from Georgia to Maine for THIS chick!

Harper’s Ferry isn’t half way but it’s very close.  We met a lot of hikers on the trail, and met one guy who had just finished that very hour, coming in from Maine.  There was definitely an atmosphere of excitement and inspiration as everyone greeted and welcomed him back.  I can’t imagine spending ONE night sleeping on the trail, let alone over 6 months of nights!

After finishing our part of the trail, (of course we had TRAIL MIX!) we walked back up through ‘Old Town’, where the museums and boutiques and eateries were. So much history there!  I especially loved seeing the old buildings perched on the hills, and the ruins of the church that they eventually rebuilt across the street.  I want to go back and explore when it’s not raining and I have time to really see everything.

We finished the afternoon later in the day with a picnic lunch in a dry pavilion area, and were joined my a mommy deer and her two almost-grown children.  Mom is hiding behind the tree to the right, you can just almost see her.

It quit raining and the sun came out about 25 minutes from New Stanton.  Go figure!  But the rain had not dampened our spirits, and it was a day well spent, and I loved the adventure of walking the historic AT and seeing new places.  Can’t wait for the next adventure – stay tuned!