Name: Backpack (Beginner Friendly) - Ed Garvey Shelter On AT - 12.9 miles
Start: 2025-11-15T10:00:00-05:00
End: 2025-11-16T13:00:00-05:00
Location: Vienna Metro South Kiss & Ride Parking

"Backpacking forces one, by necessity, to walk the balance line, the edge of the sword, between disciplined deprivation and hedonistic gratification: a tiring, sweat-soaking day ends with a plunge into a cool stream; an arduous, lung-bursting climb is followed by a magnificent panoramic sweeping view; and there is the continuous contrast between life on the trail and civilized pleasures–a warm meal, a hot shower, clean dry clothes. It is by walking this line between sacrifice and satisfaction that one finds fulfillment." –ROBERT BROWNE, The Appalachian Trail: History, Humanity, and Ecology, 1980

Im very excited to announce this beginner friendly backpacking trip along the Appalachian Trail! This is an out and back trip that will begin and end in Harpers Ferry. Whether you want to see if backpacking is for you, or are a seasoned professional looking for chill trip (or a great chance to test new gear) this trip is for you.

## **Trail Facts**

* **Difficulty Level:** Easy
* **Length:** 12.9 Miles
* **Duration:** 2 Days
* **Elevation Gain:** 1,440 Feet
* **Bear Canisters:** Not Required, bear box avaliable
* **Permits and Parking:** $20 per vehicle at Harper's Ferry Visitor Center, 171 Shoreline Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, unless someone in the vehicle has a National Parks Pass.
* **Trailhead coordinates**: 39.323286, -77.729628

All Trails Route
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/west-virginia/harpers-ferry-to-ed-garvey-shelter

I will also bring paper trail route print outs but this is a well marked trail so if you get lost, just follow the iconic white blazes.

**Trail Details:**
We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Saturday morning at 10am and carpool \~1.5 hours to the Harpers Ferry Visitor Center, 171 Shoreline Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425. \*\*\*Please note there is a $20 per vehicle charge to park there unless you have a National Parks Pass. If we have one person per vehicle with a National Parks Pass, we can avoid this cost.\*\*\*
We start our hike crossing the bridge to a flat river walk, climb to the Weaverton Cliffs overlook, and then continue to hike (mostly flat) to the Ed Garvey shetler. There are tent spots, a fire pit, bear box, and a reliable water source. If it is too crowded at the shelter area, there are many flat spots nearby and stealth camping is allowed.

We will leave Sunday morning to hike back into town. We can grab yummy food and drinks in at the Rabbit Hole in Harpers Ferrybefore catching the shuttle back to the parking lot.

**Gear list**
Note: Make sure you pack layers, I expect night temps to be somewhat chilly.

**Essential Items**:

* Tent
* Sleeping pad​
* Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​
* Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​
* Warm non-cotton clothing (including hat and socks)
* Food for two days - Dehdrated or non perishable (Saturday: snacks/dinner, Sunday: breakfast/snacks).
* Water bottles or hydration system (3-liter capacity)​
* Bag or canister for securely storing food and other scented items. There will be a large metal bear box avaliable to use.
* Water filter or purification tablets​
* Headlamp with extra batteries​
* Rain gear
* Dry bags or pack cover​ or a compactor trash bag to line your pack and keep things dry
* Trowel and toiletries for Leave No Trace compliance

**Optional Items**:

* Backpacking stove with fuel​
* Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​
* Hand warmers
* Leightweight camp chair
* Personal first aid kit​
* Map and compass or GPS device
* Power bank or external battery
* Trekking poles​
* Camp shoes
* Electrolyte supplements​
* Alcohol​
* Books, games, or other entertainment
* Gaiters​
* Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​

**LIABILITY NOTICE:**
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​

For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​

If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost).​

See you on the trail!

Jessica Gardner

NOVA Trailblazers - 20s - 40s Backpacking and Hiking

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Backpack (Beginner Friendly) - Ed Garvey Shelter On AT - 12.9 miles

Vienna Metro South Kiss & Ride Parking

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Backpack (Beginner Friendly) - Ed Garvey Shelter On AT - 12.9 miles

NOVA Trailblazers - 20s - 40s Backpacking and Hiking

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