This is Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, full of history, full of rural charm, and finally regarded as the spiritual center of the Appalachian Trail. Indeed, Harpers Ferry is home to the headquarters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the lead advocacy organization for protection and promotion of the trail. Many through-hikers who started hiking in Georgia and who arrive in Harpers Ferry, and visit the offices of the Conservancy, feel psychologically that they have completed half of their Odyssey.

The Appalachian Trail, cuts through the middle of down-town Harpers Ferry, passing some very significant historical sites.