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Join us for a challenging and rewarding hike in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park! Rich in civil war history, the hike up to Maryland Heights rewards the adventurous with unparalleled views of the charming town of Harpers Ferry and the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers.
Expect a relatively speedy pace, rocky and uneven terrain and a steep elevation gain of 1,600 ft. You should be able to hike uphill without break for at least an hour, as well as comfortably scramble over rocks and negotiate uneven surfaces. Please wear sturdy shoes/boots and appropriate clothing.
We’ll meet at the Harpers Ferry Train Station: https://goo.gl/maps/N5f7LskEHeWGfBjV6 . There are two main parking lots, one at the train station itself and an overflow lot with shuttle service: https://goo.gl/maps/49TF1bQZm8gMQVYM9 . Both lots charge a $20 fee, which can be paid online in advance: https://www.nps.gov/hafe/planyourvisit/fees.htm . Prepare to come early as spots in both lots fill up quickly especially on the weekends.
Don’t be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.
*For important updates regularly monitor the comments section below.*
*When you sign up to join a hike you automatically acknowledge
VSDC hikes Liability Waiver: https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/ *
*Please also view the Rules listed at the end of this description*
*Please read The 10 Essentials of Hiking: https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/ *
Transportation: Parking lots charge $20: https://goo.gl/maps/N5f7LskEHeWGfBjV6 , https://goo.gl/maps/49TF1bQZm8gMQVYM9 . Carpooling is encouraged and a great way to meet people and help the environment!
Dog friendly? Yes, please keep your dog leashed.
Bathroom Facilities/Water: The train Station has bathroom facilities. None on the trail.
Food: Bring your own vegan snack and (non-alcoholic) beverage to enjoy mid-hike. There are no trash receptacles on the trail so pack out your own waste.
Weather: Be prepared! We will hike rain or shine, but if conditions pose a danger, we’ll cancel the hike and post a notice in the comments section. We suggest that hikers wear comfortable footwear and suitable clothing made from quick-dry, synthetic fabrics, as cotton can lead to uncomfortable blisters and life-threatening hypothermia in case of inclement weather.
*Rules*
Pets: When hikes are organized in dog-friendly areas, hikers are invited to bring their pet(s). However, dogs are the sole responsibility of the owner(s) who brought them; should be up-to-date on their vaccinations & in possession of the relevant tags; should be under the control of their owner(s) at all times. Dogs that demonstrate consistently aggressive or otherwise out-of-control behavior will be banned from future hikes. Owners should come prepared to dispose of their dogs’ waste in appropriate receptacles.
Alcohol/Smoking/Intoxicants: Use of intoxicants such as alcohol, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during the hikes.
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VSDC (http://vsdc.z9zvgctzyq-lxd6r0ypy69g.p.temp-site.link) is a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through education on the benefits of a vegan diet & lifestyle. Sharing food is the bond that brings families together; so it is with VSDC. From simply “breaking bread” to experiencing delicious and nutritious vegan foods from around the world, we make your journey easier, enjoyable & meaningful.
VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.