The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is a corridor of history and outdoor adventure. The Trail network follows the river through its tidal reaches to the fall line, with an interlude along the escarpment of Washington, D.C., then up the C&O Canal to Cumberland, Md. From there it goes over and through the mountains along the Great Allegheny Passage and the Laurel Highlands Trail. This evolving Trail network offers opportunities for hiking, bicycling, boating, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Explore these pages by region or activity, then follow links to travel information and partners.

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Where the Potomac and the Chesapeake Meet: the Beginning of the PHT

St. George Island rideThe Potomac Heritage Trail starts at the confluence of the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay at Point Lookout State Park.  This itinerary begins at Point Lookout, runs through the tidal lowlands of the St. Mary’s Peninsula past Maryland’s early colonial capital and a Potomac River lighthouse, and on to St. George Island.   (more…)

Bike Monocacy Aqueduct to Brunswick

Here’s an easy 26-mile out-and-back ride that offers casual cyclists a nice day traveling through Piedmont floodplain forest and beneath the cliffs at Point of Rocks. For experienced cyclists, it’s just long enough for a morning ride. With a stop in Brunswick, you can visit the Brunswick Railroad Museum and C&O Canal visitor center on [...]

Downtown Frederick and the C&O Canal

This weekend trip starts in historic-but-hip downtown Frederick, Md., and includes a visit to Monocacy Battlefield and Monocacy Aqueduct–once considered one of the great engineering wonders of the world. After a visit to Catoctin Aqueduct and lunch in Brunswick, return to Frederick to wander the streets and plan your evening.

Wright Ride Along the Great Allegheny Passage

Marvel in the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright and bike one of the most scenic sections of the Great Allegheny Passage in Pennsylvania’s LaurelHighlands.
Begin your visit with a breathtaking tour of Wright’s world-renowned Fallingwater.  For an unforgettable experience book either the Brunch or Sunset tour.  Be sure to make advanced reservations, wear comfortable shoes, and allow at [...]

See Mount Vernon From Piscataway Park

Explore Mt. Vernon’s Viewshed Year Round by Land or by Water at Piscataway Park
Depending on which direction you are traveling, Piscataway Park sits at the beginning or the end of the Southern Maryland segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.  Piscataway, is, however, much more than a landmark.  It is an experience unto itself, [...]

St. Mary’s “L” Loop

Take a day ride or weekend getaway in St. Mary’s County, Md., from Leonardtown to the Piney Point Lighthouse and Chesapeake Bay Field Lab.
Explore this  lovely Southern Maryland loop on two wheels as you begin your ride in Leonardtown, then pass through some hills to arrive on the Potomac River at the Piney Point Lighthouse [...]

Fort Circle Parks: Fort Stevens and Battleground Cemetery

See the city from Fort Stevens, site of the only Civil War battle fought within Washington, D. C. The earthwork hill and battlements offer a commanding view.  The site also commemorates President Abraham Lincoln’s presence during the battle, the only time a U.S. President has come under enemy fire. He was there to observe the battle. [...]

Historic Georgetown

Stroll the brick and cobblestone streets of the city that predates the District of Columbia. Established in 1751, Georgetown is one of the oldest and most prosperous tobacco port towns in the area. It was a prosperous major commercial center for 40 years before being included in plans for the Nation’s Capital. Today its historic streets and [...]

Fort Circle Parks Trail: Exploring the Suburban Wilderness

The Fort Circle Parks Trail is a great way to experience the historical Civil War conservation and preservation sites that encircle the perameter of Washington D.C.  This collection of forts make up the Civil War Defenses of Washington that were built by the Union Army to protect the Capital and its major supply routes. Many [...]

Rock Creek Park: Historic Wilderness in the Heart of Washington

The Rock Creek Park is a wonderful national park destination that can facilitate many different leisure activities and conservation perspectives for visitors’ enjoyment. Located in the heart of Northern Washington, DC, this expansive 1754 acre greenway plays host to equestrian and/or hiking nature trails, playgrounds and picnic areas, Fitzgerald Tennis Stadium, Carter Barron Amphitheater, and [...]