Hiking Instructions forHARC HIKE FOR HUNGER AND HOPE—2015

TheHikingTrail. The Appalachian Trail in Marylandfollows the crest of South Mountain on the border between Washington and Frederick Counties. The terrain is hilly and rocky, requiring hikers to be in good physical shape. The hike will cover the southern half of the AT in Maryland, traveling north from the Potomac River at Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, and finishing at Washington Monument State Park, above Boonsboro, MD. Please arrive early to register and turn in pledges.

Three distances will be covered:

  1. 20-mile hike from Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia to the Monument.
  2. 10-mile hikefrom Gathland State Park to the Monument.
  3. 5-mile hike from Lamb’s Knoll to the Monument. (Good for family hike.)

There will be a hike leader for each of the three groups.

Logistics.

  • Group 1(20-milers) will meet at 6:00 am in the Park and Ride at the intersection of Alternate Route 40 and State Route 67 just south of Boonsboro.The group will be bussed to Harper’s Ferry for the start.
  • Group 2(10-milers) will meet at 10:00 am at Washington’s Monument State Park. Park in the Fort Necessity Picnic Pavilion parking lot. The group will be bussed to Gathland State Park.
  • Group 3(5-milers) will meet at 12:00 noon at Washington’s Monument State Park. Park in the Fort Necessity Picnic Pavilion parking lot. The group will be bussed to the top of Lamb’s Knoll.

Parking.For those parking at the Washington’s Monument State Park (Group 2 & 3), there is a $2.00 per vehicle charge to enter the Park, unless you have a Maryland Golden Age Pass ($4.00 for non-Maryland residents). Please pay as you pass the fee box at the entrance. You may want to consider car-pooling with other hikers. Parking at the Rt. 67 Park and Ride (for Group 1) is free.

Physical Conditioning. Participants are expected to be in good physical health and conditioning for a strenuous day of hiking. After a three-mile flat stretch along the C & O Canal, the course follows the South Mountain ridgealong the border between Washington and Frederick Counties. White trail blazes are painted on trees along the path. The highest point of the AT is at Lamb’s Knoll. The trail follows many ancient logging roads. Some short stretches require climbing over rocks and boulders. In other words this is not “a walk in the park.” Rest stops for the longer hiking groups will be infrequent. Good sturdy footwear is a must. (No flip-flops or sandals.)

Travel Light & Stay Hydrated. It is important for all hikers to carry water and stay hydrated. Water and Gatorade will be available at Gathland State Park and Lamb’s Knoll. Besides water, hikers should carry their own personal items. The hike will take place rain or shine. If rain is forecast, bring a sturdy but light-weight rain jacket or poncho. What you carry in will have to be carried out. For those hiking the whole distance a light-weight flashlight or headlamp is recommended just in case. The trail is easier to follow in the light of day.

Lunch. For those in Group 1 (20-milers), a trail lunch will be provided at Gathland State Park. For Group 2 (10-milers), a light lunch will be available at Lamb’s Knoll. Water and Gatorade will be available at all three stops. If you have a food allergy, let us know at least three days before the hike.

First-Aid. The group leaders will be carrying first-aid kits in case of scratches, minor abrasions, and sprains. If you have an allergic reaction to insect bites, poison ivy, etc., please inform them before the start of the hike. We want the hike to be a safe and enjoyable day. There is limited access to the Trail in the case of an emergency. Emergency phone: 301-331-9388

Restrooms.Public restrooms are available at Gathland State Park and Washington’s Monument State Park. If a bathroom break is needed anywhere else along the trail, please find a secluded spot at least 50 feet off the trail. It is recommended to carrya pack of tissues. Be kind to the environment and cover up any human waste.

Return Transportation. A support crew with a van will be available to assist with transportation of Group 1 hikers back to the Park and Ride, after the picnic.

Picnic at the End of the Trail. We have coordinated the day so that all three groups will complete their hike close to the same time. Then you can enjoy a celebrative picnic supper at Washington’s Monument State Park. This will be held in the Fort Necessity Picnic Pavilion. Stay and enjoy the good food and fellowship with other hikers after a long and successful day on the trail.

Suggested Check List.Here’s a list of things to consider bringing along. Try to keep your pack light.

  • Sturdy hiking boots or running shoes
  • Comfortable hiking clothes
  • Light jacket
  • Hat
  • Fanny pack or small back pack
  • Sunglasses
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle/canteen
  • Cell phone
  • High energy snack
  • Walking pole or stick
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Small tissue packet
  • Flashlight/head lamp (for 20 milers, just in case)

We look forward to a safe, enjoyable, and rich experience in the great outdoors. Remember, your participation supports important ministries in the Hagerstown community. For this we thank you!

Ed Poling, Hike Director

Home Phone: 301-766-9005

Cell Phone: 301-331-9388

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