Harper's ferry is worth the stairs. Although there isn't anything but trails near the hills up to the visitor's center. My trek wasn't in vain though because I met a knowledgeable ranger who asked me a lot about my trip and insited that I keep a journal and possibly write a book. She told me she had lived in New Zealand for a bit and wrote down the names of everyone she met. That list was a great reminder of the people who shape us, help us, and impact our lives. It also served as a great tool to remember. After our chat she told me about that best places to see in Harper's Ferry. The one that will stick with me the most is Jefferson's rock. Jefferson supposedly said that the view from that cliff was worth the trip across the Atlantic ocean. Needless-to-say, it was beautiful.

On my way out of town I ran into her again. She was watching a family of peregrine falcons nesting on the cliff face. She pointed out the babies flapping their wings to get a feel for their new feathers. It was a majestic sight that will stick with me. They are such beautiful, agile birds.

I only did 40 miles to a trailside campground after that because it was late into the afternoon. At the capground a met two guys that were on their first bike trip, slowly making their way down the C&O towpath. Funnily enough, they had spent the previous night camping with Joe.