What we’re about
PATC hikes are an opportunity to understand the club and its important trail maintenance work. You do not need to be a PATC member to hike with us, but we hope you will consider joining after getting to know us. Come join us on the trails!
(PATC hikes are conducted by trained hike leaders. The hikes offer various levels of difficulty and distance).
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ABOUT PATC
The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) is a 100% Volunteer-Supported 501c3 non-profit formed in 1927 for the purpose of building and maintaining the Appalachian Trail (AT), a 2190-mile footpath from Maine to Georgia, the longest hiking-only trail in the world.
We are the Trail Guardians for over 1000 miles of trails in Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia & Virginia, including 240 miles of AT. Our territory begins in Central Pennsylvania at Pine Grove Furnace, continues thru Maryland & West Virginia to Harpers Ferry and extends into the mid-point of Virginia, including the Shenandoah National Park. In addition, we maintain other regional trails, for a total of over 1,000 miles of trails, thousands of acres of land and more than 80 shelters and cabins.
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ABOUT THE HIKE PROGRAM
The first stated purpose of PATC is "to support and encourage the ... proper recreational use of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and other trails". This is done partly through the sponsorship of hikes on trails in PATC's area and on other trails.
The club has a wide-ranging hiking program which includes local area hikes and excursions into other geographical areas. Hikes can range from short, close-in day hikes to extended excursions. Hikes can be for physical conditioning, social interaction, nature walks, history lessons, to reach a viewpoint, or any of a number of purposes. The club encourages a wide variety of hikes, and provides training and support to hike leaders.
Upcoming events
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- $30.00
Thanksgiving Trail & Trek: A 43-Mile Backpacking Journey (Event Full)
Location not specified yetAn annual tradition, this 43-mile backpacking journey is a chance to reconnect with nature and challenge yourself on the trail! We will be hiking the Appalachian Trail, southbound, from the PA line into Harpers Ferry. This trip will consume all day Saturday through Monday. On Thursday, you won't feel guilty with an extra serving of everything!
Hiking the Appalachian Trail from Pen Mar Park to Harpers Ferry, which covers the entire Maryland section of the AT, offers a mix of scenic views and historical landmarks. While Maryland's section is often considered one of the easier parts of the trail due to less elevation gain and generally smoother terrain, it still provides a rewarding experience.
It is required that you have the ability to hike 3 very long days 10-18 miles, into the evenings, over rocky terrain. As it will be dark early, the last couple of hours will be by headlamp. The evenings will likely be cold, possibly below freezing, so you will need proper gear. If you are unsure about your ability, please do not sign up as you would impact the group and be asked to depart the trip at a road crossing. The good news is that we have over 100 days to begin training and the PATC has lots of great hikes on Meetup!
Highlights we will pass:
- Pen Mar Park
- High Rock
- Devil's Racecourse
- Raven Rock (Cliffs and Hollow)
- Annapolis Rocks
- Black Rock Cliffs
- Washington Monument State Park
- Pine Knob Shelter
- Dahlgren Chapel
- Gathland State Park (War Correspondents' Arch)
- Ed Garvey Shelter
- Weverton Cliffs
- C&O Canal Towpath
- Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
- Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) Visitor Center (optional!)
Trip
- Trip Difficulty: VERY DIFFICULT. Everyone will begin on waitlist in order to be verified(*). When signing up, make sure to fully answer the questions.
- Miles: 43 with approximate splits of 15/16/10.5
- Elevation Gain: 6,000ft
- Descent: 7,000ft
- Group Size: 4-6 people
- Weather: Expect freezing temperatures overnight
Nighttime Hiking: Due to the high mileage and short days, I expect that the last 2-3 hours will be by headlamp. - Cost: $30 estimate for shuttles, collected prior to moving off Waitlist.
(*)Waitlist Explained
- As this trip’s difficulty rating is Difficult or above, everyone who signs up will begin on the Waitlist. This allows for the hiker leader to verify that you have the necessary gear, knowledge and physical ability before moving you to Going. A Difficult or higher trip is not the place to push your abilities for the first time, and we don’t want a single person to negatively impact the entire group.
- If there is a fee for this trip, typically for either a permit or a hiker shuttle, that needs to be paid prior to moving from Waitlist to Going.
- If there is a question during signup, it must be fully answered (not just a “yes”) or you will remain on waitlist. If there is room at the end, I will reach out for the answers to the questions so I can move you to Going.
- If you have "No Showed" on hikes previously, you will remain on the waitlist until the end.
Meeting Location & Parking
- 6:45am at HF National Park Visitor Center, 171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV
- NPS pass displayed on windshield (I will provide information on how to get this)
- 7:00am (sharp!) Shuttle departs for Pen Mar Park
Maps & Current Plan
FarOut App (paid) -- This is what I will be using for navigation.
AllTrails: Appalachian Trail: Pen Mar Park to Harpers Ferry
PATC Map 5-6: AT across Maryland and the Catoctin Trail
Tentative plan is as follows. It is subject to change (and usually does).
- Saturday: Pen Mar Park to Pogo Campsite. If we arrive early to Pogo, we may decide to continue on to Annapolis to shave a couple of miles from Sunday.
- Sunday: Pogo (or Annapolis Rocks) to Crampton Gap Shelter
- Monday: Crampton Gap Shelter to Harpers Ferry
Backpacking Trip Essential Requirements & Expectations
These items outline specific requirements and expectations for all participants on our backpacking trips. These are in addition to the PATC Liability Waiver and are crucial for ensuring the safety and enjoyment of everyone, especially given the remote nature of these trips.
Please read carefully. By registering up for a backpacking trip, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to adhere to these requirements.
1. Self-Sufficiency & Responsibility:
* This is a group trip, but we operate on a self-sufficient model. You are responsible for your own well-being and preparedness throughout the trip.
* You must carry all your essential equipment, including shelter, food, a first-aid kit, water, and water purification supplies. Sharing some items with a partner is acceptable.
2. Navigation & Preparedness:
* You are expected to understand the trip's difficulty, including total mileage, elevation gains and declines, type of terrain, and daily splits.
* You must be in good physical shape and capable of completing the planned itinerary.
* You are required to have your own printed maps, as well as a compass and/or GPS, and know how to navigate. This is particularly important if you miss the group's morning departure.
* If you have a medical condition that could become relevant during the trip (e.g., carrying an EpiPen or inhalers), you must inform the hike leader in advance.
3. Leave No Trace & Wildlife Safety:
* All participants must follow Leave No Trace (LNT) principles.
* You must have an established method for securing your food from bears at night.
4. Group Dynamics & Punctuality:
* Leave your dog at home for backpacking trips. Service dogs are welcome with paperwork and a leash at all times.
* If carpooling, please bring cash or use Venmo to offset the driver's gas expenses.
* Punctuality is essential. Be on time for carpool departures and be ready to leave campsites at the agreed-upon times.
* If you tend to move slowly in the mornings, please allow extra time to be ready for departure.
* Bring a great sense of humor – it's an essential piece of gear!
5. Communication:
* We will be in a remote area that may be out of cell service.
* If you have any questions or concerns before or during the trip, please ask the hike leader.
Understanding the Risks:
Please be aware that backpacking in a remote area, potentially out of cell service, involves inherent dangers and risks. Your preparedness and adherence to these guidelines are vital for the safety of yourself and the entire group.
During signup, there are some questions that need to be answered. If you don't answer all of them, you will remain on Waitlist.
Questions
David M (“Square Feet”) is leading this hike and is a PATC certified Hike Leader, member of PATC Trail Patrol and Backpacking Committee Chair. David is certified in Wilderness First Aid. PATC’s goal is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, so if you have any questions or need assistance along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out!6 attendees 
Susquehanna State Park: Woodland Areas “Rolling Hills”! A Moderate 9.5 Miles
Susquehanna Woodland Farms, 761 Stafford Road, Havre de Grace, MD, USSusquehanna State Park: Woodland Areas “Rolling Hills”! A Moderate 9.5 Miles
Experience the wilder side of Susquehanna State Park as you wind your way through dense woods featuring old-growth trees, some of which are recognized as champion specimens. Along the way, you’ll pass through open meadows and ascend hills that provide great views of the Susquehanna River below. This hike is ideal for those seeking to move beyond beginner trails. The 9.5-mile distance, combined with rolling terrain, offers a moderate challenge. Whether you’re prepping for more strenuous adventures or simply want a solid workout, these hills will put your endurance to the test.
Bring a snack or lunch to enjoy along the way.
A Well-Mannered, Leashed Fido is Welcome on this Hike!
Let’s have fun out on the trails and see you there!
Time to Meet:
Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00
Contact Information:
Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Christa (410-610-6254). Call or text as needed.
Directions to Trailhead:
The GPS Coordinates are 39.608191, -76.142608
The Street address is 761 Stafford Road, Havre de Grace, MD 21078. We meet at the parking lot next to the old mill.
Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 9.5 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,300 feet
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Portable Bathroom near trailhead (allow 10 minutes)
Fees: no entrance fee
Cancellation: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.
Weather:
The weather for this location can be found here.
Notes:
-Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike.
-Please do not show up unregistered.
-Please keep this a fragrance free event.
-To find out more about PATC, click here.
-Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, click here.10 attendees
Nature Before the Feast: A 6.2-Mile Scenic Hike in Rock Creek
Rock Creek Park Nature Center, 5200 Glover Rd., NW, Washington, DC, USNature Before the Feast: A 6.2-Mile Scenic Hike in Rock Creek
Before gathering around the Thanksgiving table, treat yourself to a hike in Rock Creek Park, Washington, D.C.'s premier natural escape.
Spanning more than 1,700 acres, Rock Creek Park offers a refuge from urban life, perfect for hikers, cyclists, birdwatchers, and anyone craving peace and renewal. This 6.2-mile hike explores some of the park’s quieter, less-traveled trails, providing a perfect balance of beauty and exercise ahead of the holiday festivities. Along the way we will ascend a ridge to catch a view of the iconic Boulder Bridge, traverse along a quiet stream with fun little stream crossings, pass by a community garden, and generally enjoy serene woodland paths.
Please arrive before 9:00 to allow gearing up and orientation. We will begin promptly at 9:00 to ensure people can get home in time to enjoy their Thanksgiving festivities,
Fido is welcome but must be on a leash.
The Nature Center is closed on Thanksgiving so there will be no toilets on this hike.
Please note: You must register by 9:00 PM the night before the hike. We also ask that if you sign up and decide not to attend, please sign out. We often have a waiting list and signing out allows others to sign in.
Time to Meet:
Please meet at 8:45 AM for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00
Directions to Trailhead:
We meet at the Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium, 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015.
The GPS coordinates are 38.96062, -77.05157
Contact Information:
Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289 Call or text as needed.
Details:
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 6.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 843 feet
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: No toilets on this hike. The Nature Center is closed on Thanksgiving
Fees: No entrance fees
Cancellation:
In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.
Weather:
The weather for this location can be found here.
Notes:
-Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike.
-Please do not show up unregistered.
-Please keep this a fragrance free event.
-To find out more about PATC, click here.
-Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, click here.7 attendees
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