This is a unique section of the Appalachian Trail (AT) in that it's less about hard core hiking and…read moremore about history. Although you might see an occasional through hiker. This part of the AT is connected to the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (NHP) which has lots of Civil War history attached to it. For more details see https://www.nps.gov/hafe/planyourvisit/hikes.htm The hikes here are very easy with little elevation change. But you will get many beautiful views and like I said there plenty of historical stuff to connect with as well. For more details or volunteer options check out the PATC at https://www.patc.net/

Probably one of the best National Park situated in between the Northern Virginia and West Virginia…read morebordering the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. The Potomac river runs all the way to and is about 61 miles from Washington DC. As we checked in the visitor center we were immediately greeted by a Park Service in full Ranger uniform. We paid the customary $10 per car then he handed us a map of Harpers Ferry. From the visitor center a complimentary bus takes you to the main historic town about 2 miles from the parking lot. Today, there was a special tour with a Park Ranger who enlightened us in great detail of the history including particularly of the armory it once was which equipped the US Capital for its defense all the way from the South. Most of all, the story of John Brown, the abolitionist but could be also be contested as a rebel, depending on one's learning curve. There were a few dwellings and museums and especially the building where John Brown was held up when he was captured during his attempts to raid the armory back in those days, so as to help the cause in freeing the slaves. This building was considered sacred as it triggered the civil war, or so it was thought to have started. The curators at its dwellings were knowledgeable and passionate about their jobs and to me, should serve as the model for how historical places should be curated! Thanks to our lady bus driver who drove us back n forth to the visitor center, Elliot who gave us a history tour of the museum and more importantly, the amazingly enthusiastic Park Ranger David Cox who guided us through a very thoughtful story of its history and told it as if he were speaking of the events as it was happening just then. Great job! Too bad we were pressed for time or we would have lingered longer for a hike on the trails connecting the Appalachian Trail to that area or to cross or kayak the Potomac. It was an awesome day of about 60 degrees in the middle of Winter. It could not have been a better day to visit. I'll definitely come back to either kayak or try out inner tubing in the Summer time. Very well worth a visit!

As early as 1747, a ferry ran between Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Maryland Heights before any…read morebridge crossed the river here. This served as a crucial conduit for communication, trade, and transit between the interior of Maryland and the Shenandoah Valley. A timber-covered road bridge, one of the first highway bridges at this site, eventually took the place of the ferry in 1824. A vital conduit for wagons, pedestrians, and cattle traveling between the two banks of the river, this building before the railroad. The road bridge had a more subdued but crucial role in regional growth, despite being overshadowed by the spectacular engineering achievements of the railroad bridges and the Harpers Ferry Tunnel. It made civilian travel and trade more reliable, particularly as the train and canal networks grew. The original road bridge was eventually replaced or diverted as rail and highway networks evolved, and the remains gradually disappeared into the backdrop of the more imposing rail infrastructure. Some of those old bridge piers still remain. Welcome across the border between Virginia and Maryland! The bridge is pretty from below. Crossing it is rather boring. [Review 1036 of 2025 - 673 in Maryland - 24590 overall]

Used Halls for my fathers funeral. His death like so many was very unexpected. Halls helped us…read moreevery step of the way. Kim, Carl & Aubrey were top notch during this tough time. They were caring for our needs and made sure everything went as planned. No one wants to use a funeral home because it means someone near and dear to you has passed. However, if you need a funeral home you cannot go wrong with Halls. Again, Thank You Kim, Carl & Aubrey for all you did. It was above and beyond and my family appreciated your efforts.

Although going to a funeral home is never a pleasant experience, Hall's Funeral home does its…read moreutmost to ease the pain. I recently had a friend pass unexpectedly and under tragic circumstances. After having a horrible experience at a funeral home in Middleburg, Virginia, a friend suggested Hall's in Purcellville. What a difference!! Kim Reed was a godsend. She understood that my friend's surviving spouse was in no condition to make immediate decisions. She worked closely with family members and friends to plan a service that was not only tailored to honor the wishes of the deceased, but also represented her special interests. Ms. Reed was extremely supportive, empathetic, and kept communication lines open no matter the day or time. She is a very warm, caring individual who understands grieving family and friends. I highly recommend this funeral home - they understand the tragedy of loss and death.

Phelps has always been there in my time of need and been very helpful through the hard process of…read morelosing a loved one. Both Travis and Kim went out of their way to make sure everything was covered and went smoothly. I'm very thankful the process was so easy. Thanks Phelps!

I am so thankful that I was driven to this funeral home by another inadequate funeral home. Phelps…read morenot only did a beautiful job of preparing my husband as we remembered him but they planned everything to perfection . The staff was not only kind, caring and compassionate, but took care of all our needs, allowing us to mourn our loss. I would never consider or recommend another funeral home. Wonderful!!!

I love small towns, especially ones with history and being established in the mid 1700's, it's got…read morea helluva lot of history. While I was here I learned a little bit about this town and got to walk, drive and hike around a little too. One thing I noticed was the fact that the businesses on Main St. leave out bowls of water for people walking their dogs, never have I ever seen that ANYWHERE. There are many small businesses in town and it seems that all of the ones I've visited for one reason or another treat you like family. The locals are friendly as ever and I know of at least one local who will go so far as to let you follow him to your destination if you've gotten lost. The towns streets are almost spotless, combined the freshness of the air and crystal clear night sky so devoid of the light pollution I've become familiar with back home has made me fall madly in love with this town. The local bar is Spring House Tavern on Main Street, aptly named because it was once the only place where you could get fresh water from a spring in the buildings basement. Nice place for a cold one. Link: http://www.yelp.com/biz/spring-house-tavern-woodstock Another interesting site to see is The Woodstock Library, it's all volunteer and donation and has some amazing books. Link: http://www.yelp.com/biz/woodstock-library-the-woodstock-2 It's a beautiful little town, don't forget to check out Woodstock Tower too. Link: http://www.yelp.com/biz/woodstock-tower-fort-valley I can't wait until I'm back in this serene little town, the old buildings, historic sites and amazingly kind locals have won me over.

My uncle recently passed away and my family decided to use this funeral home. The director and his…read morewife were very gracious, comforting, and sincere during our time of grief. They made the process a little easier to manage. Also, while talking with them at the funeral home, you kind of forget it's a funeral home, it just has more of a home feel to it. They are really great people that truly care.

Tony and I spent the night in Harper's Ferry WV. We were going to tour the Historical Park but…read moredecided to comeback at a later date to devote our time and a full day here. There is so much to see. It cost $20 for 1-3 consecutive days per vehicle. We did stop at the Shenandoah Pulp Factory Ruins to explore and investigate. Be sure to spray down with your Buggie Spray or be prepared to be dinner for the insect wildlife!!! It has a small pullover parking area for about 2 cars to share. There is some signage about it's history. Highly recommend if you're in the area. I'm definitely going back!!!

I was very impressed with Royston's Middleburg compassion and professionalism from end to end for…read moremy Aunt's service. All her requests were honored with dignity and respect. Dale went above and beyond to ensure everything went off well. He was super responsive and thought of things, you may not think of in times of grief. Carli showed calm and strength on the day of the service as things were being setup. She was kind, compassionate and understanding. Thank you Dale Nichols and the rest of the team at Royston's Middleburg for making this such a smooth experience just as my Aunt wanted. Thank you.