Are you doing the Four State Challenge NOBO (northbound↑) or SOBO↓ ?

Here are some things to consider:

• Start/Finish

  • • North End: MD/PA Border, Pen Mar Park, MD

    • South End: VA/WV Border, Loudoun Heights VA

• Stay(s) 

  • • North End: A hostel, Zero Day Stay, is 0.3 mi away.  Other stays are accessible by shuttle.

    • South End: The awesome Cross Trails Hostel is 4.5 mi, Quality Inn is 1.5 mile, and other lodging is in Harpers Ferry. 

• Parking

  • • North End: There is free overnight parking at Pen Mar Park (free pass req) and parking at Zero Day Stay (free for guests, $2/night for non-guests).

    • South End: It's not recommended to park in Lower Town Harpers Ferry. (Even if you have the $20 Nat Parks pass, there are rarely spaces available). During non-busy months, parking might be free at Harper's Ferry National Park, but it's over 2 mi away.

• Cars & Shuttles 

  • • It's best to have your car, or bed, at the end.  Here are some shuttle drivers who can help.

• Terrain

  • • The North End is a bit rocky and steep, and the middle is moderate.  The South End is easy (comparatively), but steep again right at the end.

• Next Day Care

  • • Have a plan in case everything hurts a bit more than expected.

Since 2023, eight nine Zero Day Stay Guests (cheers Divebomber) completed their Four State Challenge.  

If you have any questions, please contact us.  

You got this -- we can help.