Jefferson County High Point Trip Report

Date: March 26, 2002
Author: Roy Wallen

Ron Tagliapietra's report from June 2000 is still valid, especially for the trail description. The weather for my ascent was rain and fog, temperature around 50, with occasional gusts of wind. The caretaker responsibilities have changed since his report and I was greeted by a very friendly Golden Retriever named Summer who wanted to play rather than let me hike (I was glad to accommodate her for a few minutes). This is, as Ron notes, a pleasant walk in the woods. Hiking time, including some time on the ridge making sure I got the highpoint, was 90 minutes.

Driving: From US 340, Route 671 is about a mile east of Harpers Ferry and just west of the crossing for the Potomac River. Take 671 south for about 7 miles (by my odometer) to Highway 9. Turn left (still roughly south) on 9 for less than a mile to the first road on the right. This is 751 and is also marked as Cider Mill Road. Follow 751 for 1.4 miles to its intersection with 719, which makes a right angle at this intersection. Take this right turn, which is also marked as Woodgrove Road. Follow Woodgrove Road for 1.9 miles to The Appalachian Trail Road, also marked as Route 713. This road quickly becomes gravel and at 0.6 mile turns right at a sign for the Blackburn Trail Center. This road appears to be marked for restricted access but the signs, sometimes poorly placed, are for the adjacent properties. Follow the main gravel road, steep at times and occasionally marked for the center, to a parking area which is marked for "Trailhead Parking" and is adjacent to two brick chimneys. Park here and continue up the road to the Blackburn Trail Center.