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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:
1. [Train station itself](https://goo.gl/maps/N5f7LskEHeWGfBjV6) this is a small lot that gets full pretty fast.
2. [Overflow lot with shuttle service](https://goo.gl/maps/49TF1bQZm8gMQVYM9) best chance of finding parking here. However you will have to catch the free shuttle to get to our meeting point so please reserve 30min extra if you are parking here.
Both lots charge a $20 fee, which can also 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. Carpooling is encouraged and a great way to meet people and help the environment!
Meeting Point: [Harpers Ferry Train Station](https://goo.gl/maps/N5f7LskEHeWGfBjV6)
Meeting Time: 10am
Distance: 6.5 miles
Difficulty: strenuous
Pace: moderate (2.5 miles/hr)
Elevation gain: ~1600 ft
Duration: 4 hours
Type of trail: natural
Post Hike Lunch: [Kelly Farm Kitchen](https://kelleyfarmkitchen.com)
Carpool Options:
[Gaithersburg Park-n-Ride](https://goo.gl/maps/aEwRZHsFs77uYDfE7) : meet at 8:30am (it’s a big parking lot, please see the comments section for coordination).
Dog friendly? Yes, please keep your dog leashed.
Bathroom Facilities/Water: The train Station has bathroom facilities.
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.
Please do not attend if you are sick or have been near someone who thinks they may have or have been exposed to COVID-19.
*For important updates regularly monitor the “comments” section below.*
*Don’t be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.*
* When you sign up to join a hike you automatically acknowledge
[VSDC Vegan Trekkers 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/)
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; and 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.
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.