We started our day in Big Woods Campground, situated right on the edge of the Potomac. Eager to make it to Harper’s Ferry in good time, we departed our campground quickly, but when Leader Anna had a mishap with her back wheel on the trail, it became clear that a visit to a bike shop was in order. What a blessing in disguise that was, for it led us to the charming and pretty college town of Shepherdstown, West Virginia! While bike issues were resolved at a very helpful local bike shop, the gang had an hour or two to explore the endearing downtown area and get lost in a local bookstore. Once everyone was ready to ride again, we all headed toward a grocery store to pick up amenities before heading to the campus of Shepherd University to have a picnic lunch on the grass. We were all determined to get to our hostel across the river from Harper’s Ferry before the weather turned, and though we did catch the beginning of the storm before we got to our resting place for the night, getting soaked in the rain made the welcoming environment of the hostel with its warms beds and showers even more rewarding. Settling in nicely, we chatted up some Appalachian Trail hikers and indulged in a hearty pasta dinner that the hostel staff so graciously cooked for their guests before going to bed at a reasonable hour. We’re all very excited to spend our rest day exploring the historic town of Harper’s Ferry tomorrow!
