We look forward to offering all of our walking events and more new ones in 2021!

President's Message: January/February 2021

Happy New Year, with a less than fond farewell to 2020!

Despite much sadness in 2020, there is something positive that has grown out of the pandemic - more people are outside walking. Hiking has hit a new high in popularity. People need people, so instead of sitting indoors, folks are socializing outside and on foot where they feel safe.

Keeping in line with this sentiment, we will soon post our 2021 FreeWalkers calendar featuring our traditional walks, as well as several new ones, all following pandemic guidelines.

One of our prominent and beloved events has a new twist this year. Every February, FreeWalkers has held the popular Kennedy50, a one-day 50-mile trek along the C&O Canal, and ending in Harper's Ferry, WV. Needless to say, it can’t be held this year, so instead, we’ve come up with the Virtual Kennedy50.

Starting Saturday, February 6, and continuing through Monday, February 15, there will be five separate walking events totaling over 50 cumulative miles. In keeping with the spirit of the traditional event, we will have a ZOOM party the Friday evening prior, and one at the wrap-up on Monday evening.

At the kick-off Zoom, Paul Kiczek, founder of FreeWalkers, will talk about the origins of this historic event.

Register for a small fee here, then pick any or all of these walks to join us, or walk on your own - it’s your choice. Do what makes you feel comfortable, and check in with us at Monday's Zoom with your mileage, photos and experiences. Consider sharing this challenge socially, and with friends and family.

Details of the five walks will go out only to those who register.

NEWS FLASH: Mark your calendar to join us for the full in-person Kennedy50 in Harper’s Ferry, February 11-13, 2022.

See you on the road! 

Risa Olinsky, President

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FreeWalkers is a 100% volunteer 501(c)(3) organization. Consider making a donation here.