Don’t sleep in Maryland – The Trek

After spending a proper zero in Harpers Ferry, WV to learn about and contemplate all the American history that has occurred in this small area of ​​land, I left town the next day for Maryland. Although the Appalachian Trail (AT) only runs through Maryland for about 40 miles, it is a historic and cool hike. Leaving Harpers Ferry and the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, you descend into the lower reaches of the beautiful Potomac and follow its banks and swift current toward Maryland.

Great hiking and camping

The AT in Maryland is very well maintained with excellent signage and clear hikes. Certainly the scenery and views, like most ATs, are great. I particularly enjoyed spending some time for lunch at the picturesque Annapolis Rocks. The shelters and designated campsites are great and well stocked with drinking water from pumps, toilets and showers (if open depending on the time of year), some electrical outlets for charging, poles to hang bags of food, and plenty of flat, groomed areas to pitch a tent.

On the rocks of Annapolis.

Bag of bear food at Dahlgren Backpacker Campground.

History galore

I was impressed by all the American history along the AT throughout the trip in Maryland. For example, at Gathland State Park, pass the estate of Civil War journalist George Townsend (also known as “Gath”), as well as the War Correspondents Memorial Arch. Further along the trail, you will find numerous Civil War monuments and markers related to the Battle of South Mountain. For me, this led to a long initial day of hiking, as I love history and stopped at each designator to read the narratives and venture along trails to visit battlefields, memorials, or other historical remains. It was fascinating that the AT covered this important history in the existence of our country.

At the War Correspondents’ Memorial Arch.

Monument to the Civil War.

Architecture

Additionally, the AT takes you to the George Washington Early Monument, which overlooks Washington State Park and provides good details about Washington’s life and career and why this monument is in Maryland. Along the way, I also found some restored churches and buildings that appeared to be from the 1700s or 1800s. Finally, as you leave Maryland, cross from south to north via the Mason Dixon Line.

At the Washington Monument.

Restored church.

Much to offer

Having never been on the AT in Maryland, nor its rural areas, I was pleasantly surprised at how nice and enjoyable my 40 miles in this state were. The history alone was worth the trip. I was in Maryland for a weekend so I interacted with a lot of people hiking during the day or weekend and the consensus was that this part of the AT is kind of a hidden gem with a lot to offer in terms of views, Civil War history, personal stories from seemingly ordinary people, architecture, and a really great place to get away and just be.

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