Event lasts 16 hours 30 minutes
Start & Finish
John Brown's Fort, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.
Distance
50 mile route. Walkers can choose their own turn around points, with Harpers Ferry never more than 12.5 miles away. Support stops provided along the way.
Terrain
Well packed gravel/dirt, flat/level with some limited stairs climbing.
Parking
Shuttles provided from Clarion Hotel. Other parking options available.
Difficulty
Advanced and challenging due to distance and weather conditions. Walkers set their own pace.
What to pack
Layered clothes, socks, shoes, walking poles, snacks, and water bottle. Support stops with food and liquids provided.
Category
Nature, scenic, history, and waterfront.
Coordinators
John Codd & Risa Olinsky
Something different this year than our 50 mile treks in the past. We will accept the challenges issued by U.S. Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy and attempt to walk 50 miles. Our new route will start at John Brown's Fort in Harpers Ferry, and proceed northwest toward Shepherdstown, W.V along the C&O Canal towpath. After a breakfast stop (on the trail), walkers will return via the same route to Harpers Ferry. Encouraging walkers you'll meet walking in the opposite direction is optional, but is certainly suggested.
After enjoying a lunch break (on the canal), continue on the towpath southeast to Point of Rocks where a hot snack will be waiting for you. The trip 'home' is a return along the same route.
Registration
Registration is required for this special event! Full Package cost before Oct. 1 2024: $180 per person. On or after Oct. 1st: $200 per person. Registration fee includes FreeWalkers souvenir gift, personalized event bib, pre-event meet and greet dinner, transportation to starting line, breakfast, lunch, evening food stops, support stations, sweep of trail, transportation for non-finishers, and post-event dinner.
Refund Policy
Refundable before Oct. 1, 2024 (minus $25 and Eventbrite fee). NON-REFUNDABLE after September 30, 2024 - no exceptions.
Lodging & Meals
Clarion Hotel discount available until January 8, 2025. Breakfast included in hotel reservation. Participants responsible for accommodations, hotel reservations, and transportation. Guests can join for dinner for $30 per night.
Support and Transportation
Regular support along the route with food, fluids, and limited transportation options. Shuttles back to Clarion provided from support stops.
Highlights
A weekend with fellow travelers, seeing the sun rise over the canal, full 50 mile walk option, extend the weekend in Harpers Ferry or Brunswick, MD.
