An Autumn to Remember in Washington County, MD

November 17, 2017

Create Warm Memories and Share Them

Fall is not over yet, in fact, in many ways its just getting warmed up for visitors and residents here in Washington County, Maryland.

Bordered by two mountains and miles of river by the Potomac River. A weekend getaway or a day trip are not only within reach, you will be glad you came here to explore and play and filled your heart and mind with warm memories of hiking, antiquing, and sharing it all.

A special treat is an annual event, the Valley Craft Network Artisan Studio Tour. This opportunity happens only on the weekend before Thanksgiving and is a rare opportunity to meet incredible and even famous artisans in their studio and pick up some Maryland handcrafted items to treasure or give as unique and meaningful gifts.

Make time to see all of the artists, they are each unique in their style and approach, dedicated to their craft and to sharing their passion. You can meet Judy Williams who has dedicated her career to textiles, holds a Ph.d in textiles, and repurposes clothing in her Keedysville home studio. Enjoy a couple of cookies and some tea as you get to know this charming artist.

You could grab some breakfast where the locals go at the infamous Bonnie’s At the Red Byrd in Keedysville, and then head over to the earthen kiln and pottery studio of Kirk Martin (M4 Studio).

Then you could cruise to the top of South Mountain, go the gallery and studio the potter and former DYI Network talent, Bill van Gilder. Intercept the Appalachian Trail at Gapland State Park, and see the Correspondents Memorial dedicated to the photographer and correspondents of the Civil War.

When your appetite starts to build you can drive down the mountain to Caprikorn Farms, have lunch, sample their variety of famous Caprikorn Farms goat cheeses, and other warm food items in their country kitchen. From here you can hop over to Big Cork Vineyards in Boonsboro, take in the tranquil country views, relax, and enjoy some Washington County wine.

Before departing back home or onto your next destination, be sure to visit the C&O Canal Towpath, National Park. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Potomac River, perhaps see one of the many Bald Eagles as they catch fish right from the river, and the expanse of old trees and varied natural habitats.
Links:
Visit Hagerstown - maps, places to stay, things to do, and places to eat:
http://www.visithagerstown.com/things-to-do

Valley Craft Network:
http://www.valleycraftnetwork.org

For a slide show of the items suggested click here: Slide Show