Appalachian Trail - Maryland

• Trail Stats: 40.9 Trail Miles, 6 Hiker Shelters
• Maryland is considered the easiest hiking section of the Appalachian Trail (AT). So much so that hikers have come up with the “Maryland Challenge,” which is an attempt to hike the entire 40.9-mile state section in one day. Needless to say that’s a massive day for the average hiker, easy terrain or not. But Maryland doesn’t sport many views or significant natural attractions, so ridge walking at a fast pace is a game in and of itself.
• What this section is lacking in hiking attractions is made up with its historical importance. The AT travels near the location of many important Civil War battles, including the impossibly violent Battle of Antietam, which stands as the bloodiest single day battle in U.S. history. The Mason-Dixon Line at the Pennsylvania border separates north from the south and is commemorated with a small sign. With a little imagination, you can almost sense the legions of soldiers who called these woods home for a few of the most important years in our nation’s history.
• Though comparatively less grand than the one in D.C., Washington Monument State Park near Boonsboro has the first monument ever dedicated to George Washington: a stone tower just a few stories high. You can climb the stairs and get a view of the valley from the top. Daytime picnic facilities are available.
• Recommended 2-Day Trip: Though not a lot of views are available, this easy 23-mile route makes for a great one-night getaway. Start at Turners Gap and almost immediately come to Dahlgren Backpack Campground, which is a welcome sight for thru-hikers with its free showers and an open field for camping. Beyond, the trail rides along the ridgeline for much of the journey. On the second day you’ll come to the Weverton Cliffs, where the trail descends steeply to the C&O Canal Towpath. From there is a flat three-mile stroll into Harpers Ferry along the scenic Potomac River and the old barge canal. Directions: U.S. Alt 40 (Turners Gap) near Boonsboro, Maryland, south to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.

Guidebook: Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers' Companion (Appalachian Trail Conservancy)
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