OUTDOORS Majestic Hikes In Maryland, you’ll find a vast variety of scenery while hiking beautiful state parks and local paths. Take a leisurely walk along the Calvert Cliffs State Park Red Trail through forested wetland—perfect for all ages. Here you’ll find access to a strip of beach on the Chesapeake Bay that offers views of the park’s namesake cliffs, as well as an abundance of ancient sharks’ teeth and other marine fossils that will make a collector out of anyone. Maryland’s portion of the Appalachian Trail extends for nearly 40 miles along the South Mountain ridge through Washington and Frederick counties. The fairly challenging ascent rewards hikers with multiple vistas, including Civil War battle sites and a stunning panoramic overlook of the Potomac River. Take the Swallow Falls State Park Loop, a 1.5-mile hike, in summer months to enjoy the river and pools surrounding the beautiful falls, which are the highest in Maryland. A highlight of the Rocks State Park’s White Trail is The King and Queen Seat, a 190-foot rock outcropping, once revered by local Native Americans, which affords hikers a challenging trek, in addition to a sprawling view of forested countryside. Built in 1833, the Turkey Point Lighthouse is an easy two miles out and back from the 100-foot-tall bluff on which it stands, overlooking the confluence of the Susquehanna and Elk rivers at the head of the Chesapeake Bay. The lighthouse is open to visitors on weekends from late spring to early fall. With miles of trails crisscrossing the 262-acre Pemberton Historical Park along the Wicomico River in Salisbury, hikers can explore marshes, ponds and historical landmarks. The Osprey Trail offers stunning wildlife views too, including osprey nesting sites. ✥ Maryland Charter Boat Association www.marylandcharterboats.com Fish & Hunt Maryland www.fishandhuntmaryland.com Left to Right: Indian Head Rail Trail, Charles County; Maryland Heights Overlook, Washington County Bike Maryland www.bikemaryland.org Hike or Bike the Old Line State We’ve all had our human-powered, cross country dreams, but who’s got time for a 4,000 mile stroll? Why not hike across Maryland (AKA, “America in Miniature”) instead? The Appalachian Trail runs 40 miles from the Potomac River to the Pennsylvania border. Thru-hikers love the Maryland portion of the Appalachian Trail for its relatively easy-to-hike topography and best-on-the-trail shelters (seriously, you’ve got to see the funky log A-frame Edward B. Garvey Memorial Shelter to believe it!) that make it accessible for some differently abled hikers. Following the stunning South Mountain Ridge, the A.T. meanders through Civil War battle sites, climbs to the soaring heights of Annapolis Rock, and rises to the old stone tower at Washington Monument State Park with its expansive 360-degree vista. Or, if you’re a cyclist, experience the gorgeous Great Allegheny Passage, a nearly flat 150-mile bicycle and walking trail starting at Cumberland and connecting to Pittsburgh. It runs next to winding rivers, over soaring viaducts, and through historic railroad tunnels. No wonder it’s first in the National Rail-Trail Hall of Fame! The trail traces America’s westward expansion through a chain of cyclist-friendly trail towns, each with easy access to trailheads, restaurants, lodging, camping and bike shops. PHOTO: HAYLIE SWENSON Annapolis Rock, near Boonsboro DESTINATION MARYLAND ✥ 31
Maryland Official Visitors Guide 2018 Maryland Official Visitors Guide: Page 31
