Date: 2014-05-13
From: Port Republic to Watermelon Park

To: Watermelon Park to Harpers Ferry and Beyond
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

We all woke up from a restful night's sleep at Watermelon park without having received any of the rain we thought was headed our way, slowly packed up our gear, showered again, and eventually saw the bright yellow pick up that had arrived to take our boats back to Shenandoah River Adventures. With our aquablaze officially over, we all piled into Sammy's van and this very cool cat drove us into Harper's Ferry. The ride was an awesome end to the morning as Sammy flew down the back roads of his county. I must admit, I've sometimes thought that folks who never leave the place they call home are missing out on what the world has to offer, but after hearing Sammy describe life in his town and the passion and knowledge that comes with truly appreciating one's home turf, I have a newfound respect for those who love and never leave their stomping grounds. He even said it himself, "I didn't know who I was before moving to Clarke county. I used to get into all sorts of trouble, but now I'm happy to be doing what I'm doing." He went on to tell us about the family dynasties that own this part or that part of the land, bluegrass festivals that the town hosts, and the way folks work hard and play harder. Sammy was sure to let us know that we were always welcome to come back and that if we just ask for him by name, folks will know how we can get ahold of him. And as he dropped us off at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, our would-have-been handshakes were met with hugs instead. It's not everyday I meet such cool and interesting people, but when I do, they make quite the impression. We all filed on up the steps of the ATC, dropping our packs by the benches before going inside to pour over both the log book and photo book of the AT hikers who pass through Harpers Ferry. It was very strange but exciting to finally be at the point where so many others have been before on their journeys either to or from Maine. Despite the milestone moment of reaching Harpers Ferry, a town vibrant with history and significance, Bubba and I were anxious to start hiking, so we left town around 3:30 after a late lunch and walked across the Potomac back onto the trail. While we could've stopped at dusk, we figured that instead we would just night-hike. Despite a total downpour right before the sun went down, we entertained the idea of trying to complete the Maryland Challenge (a hike that goes from Harpers Ferry to Pennsylvania in less than 24 hours). Well, we made a great attempt, but by 10:30 we were ready to call it a night. We arrived at a shelter around 11:30pm, set up, and went to bed- 16 miles after not hiking in over a week is just a doozie. I awoke in the morning to Happy and Potter shaking my tent! They had gotten a ride up to the Pen-Mar road and were slack packing back to Harpers Ferry as they were actually doing the Maryland Challenge. We talked for a half hour and said goodbye as they were both headed to Trail Days in Demascus, VA. Sadly though, I won't see Potter again since he is going to work at a summer camp after the fun weekend. Once again, a person I'll consider a friend forever but may very well never see again. It's neat how hiking brings all sorts of people together, even of only for a brief but meaningful time.