2020-12-17 03:13:47
Roll through covered bridges, over richly forested hills, and by picturesque towns little changed since this hallowed ground served as the crossroads of the Civil War. More than history, you’ll feel the memories rooted here as you paddle gorgeous Monocacy Creek, bike to the summit of High Knob, explore the battlefields of Monocacy and South Mountain, roam through charming small towns, and discover why this National Scenic Byway may cross state lines, but all the best parts are here in Maryland. STEP BACK IN TIME South of the Pennsylvania border is the town of Emmitsburg—where both Union and Confederate armies camped en route to and from Gettysburg during the Civil War. Southward into Thurmont, cross Owen’s Creek on the historic Roddy Road Covered Bridge with its iconic red planking. Drop a line in famous Big Hunting Creek for some of the best trout fishing anywhere—it borders nearby Cunningham Falls State Park and Catoctin Mountain National Park, home of Presidential retreat Camp David. Visit The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton for an inspiring look into the life of America’s first Catholic saint. The shrine, honoring the saint known as the “Patroness for the Sea Services,” hosts an annual pilgrimage for members of the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine. To explore natural history, check out the 30-acre Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo. Visit with lemurs, monkeys, panthers, and more. HIKING TRAILS, TOURS, & MORE Bring your hiking boots and venture through one of the best hiking trails in the country: The Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Maryland’s 40-mile portion of the trail travels along South Mountain, weaving together several state parks and a Civil War battlefield. Visit Monocacy National Battlefield, home of “The Battle that Saved Washington, D.C.” Follow the clustered spires into downtown Frederick for hip shops and great restaurants, all served with a side of history. Find more things to do along the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Byway at: visitmaryland.org/scenic-byways/journey-through-hallowed-ground
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