Section 5: Gathland State Park to Harpers Ferry, WV (10 miles)

The final section of the Appalachian Trail across Maryland departs from Gathland State Park along a wide forest path. The trail is mostly flat for the first 5.5 miles or so, running along the ridge of South Mountain until reaching the Weverton Cliffs at the southern end of the mountain. The cliffs are reached by following a short (01. miles) side trail, and the view from this vantage point, taking in the almost sheer drop to the Potomac River below and the gap where Harpers Ferry sits to the west, makes the detour well worth it. Back on the AT, the trail descends down to the river valley using a series of 16 switchbacks, then joins the C&O Canal Towpath to reach the Goodlow Byron Memorial Footbridge. Crossing the footbridge over the Potomac River into Harpers Ferry, WV, brings the Veterans Hike Across Maryland to its end.