Discover the state’s western panhandle to find Civil War monuments, an old-fashioned scenic railroad and cozy towns amid spectacular mountain scenery.
Western Maryland covers the state’s northwestern corner, separated from Central Maryland by rugged mountain ranges. Explore this secluded area to appreciate its distinctive character and rich natural and historical treasures. Historic villages, awe-inspiring mountain vistas and pristine nature reserves decorate the region’s three counties, Allegany, Garrett and Washington.
Begin in the region’s largest city, Hagerstown. Stroll through Hagerstown City Park, one of the city’s premier attractions. The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, the Jonathan Hager House and Museum and the Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum are all located here.
Investigate Antietam National Battlefield or Fort Frederick State Park to learn about the region’s fascinating Civil War history. The Western Maryland section of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal shows how the Potomac River served as an arterial waterway for local communities. Visit Boonsboro to find the remarkable Crystal Grottoes Caverns. See the original Washington Monument nearby.
Explore Cumberland on the banks of the Potomac River. The city’s pedestrianized downtown area contains many historic buildings. Visit the Emmanuel Episcopal Church or wander down Canal Place to see the local station for the Western Maryland Scenic Railway. Jump aboard the restored steam-powered train to weave through the mountainous countryside to Frostburg. This cozy college town has a great selection of pubs and cafés and a thriving arts scene.
For outdoor adventure, check out Deep Creek Lake’s fantastic fishing and boating, as well as snow skiing at the Wisp Resort in the far west. Explore Western Maryland’s section of the Appalachian Trail, which includes the hiking and rock-climbing hotspot of Annapolis Rock. Go camping or hiking in Swallow Falls State Park and admire the park’s beautiful cascades.
Reach Western Maryland by flying or catching an intercity bus into Hagerstown. You can also catch an Amtrak train from Washington D.C. to Cumberland. The region is easy to reach via interstate highways. Experience warm summers and snow-dusted winters. Stay in hillside resorts, historic villages or city hotels. For the state’s superb mountain scenery, visit Western Maryland.
