New Germany State Park’s visitors frequently call it a “best kept secret.” Located between Big Savage Mountain to the east and the eastern Continental Divide along Meadow Mountain to the west, this park contains a network of multi-use trails and a small lake. This trail leaves from New Germany Lake and heads into the deep woods through the mountains. Traveling over rolling hills, you will reach the top of two large hills, dropping into the valley in between each. There are great views and gorgeous scenery. The ski trails are groomed and trails are track-set when conditions allow. Snowshoeing is also invited but must stay to the side of ski tracks.

Located within Garrett State Forest, Herrington Manor State Park encompasses 365 acres and offers swimming, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, cross-country skiing, and many other outdoor recreational activities. There are cabins available for renting as well. The ski trails are groomed and trails are track-set when conditions allow. Call ahead to check on trail conditions and closures. This trail begins next to the lake and travels deep into the woods over some rolling hills with one extended incline that is very gradual and not too difficult. Most of the trails in the park are at a beginner to intermediate level. Rentals are available for both skis and snowshoes.

Deep Creek Lake State Park located in Garrett County and surrounds Deep Creek Lake, a reservoir that was created with the construction of a dam in 1923. There are trails for hiking and mountain biking as well as water sports on the reservoir. This trail takes a large loop around the park. It circles the base of the mountains and rises to the summit where several cell phone towers and a former fire tower are located. You will then descend the mountain and reach the site of an abandoned coal mine before returning.

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, abbreviated as the C & O Canal, operated from 1831 until 1924 and runs parallel to the Potomac River from Washington D.C. to Cumberland. The total length of the canal is about 184 miles and has an elevation change of 605 feet that is accommodated by 74 canal locks. There were over 150 culverts and 11 aqueducts for the crossing of streams. The canal way is now maintained as a park that is overflowing with history. The trail is wide, flat, and made up of hard-packed dirt. Along with stunning river, forest, and mountain views throughout, this section of the towpath passes Harpers Ferry at the confluence of Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, a great place to visit.

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, abbreviated as the C & O Canal, operated from 1831 until 1924 and runs parallel to the Potomac River from Washington D.C. to Cumberland. The total length of the canal is about 184 miles and has an elevation change of 605 feet that is accommodated by 74 canal locks. There were over 150 culverts and 11 aqueducts for the crossing of streams. The canal way is now maintained as a park that is overflowing with history. The trail is wide, flat, and made up of hard-packed dirt. Along with stunning river, forest, and mountain views throughout, this section of the towpath passes through a particularly isolated landscape, runs through the Paw Paw Tunnel, past many farm fields, and ends in Cumberland after passing a large rail yard.

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, abbreviated as the C & O Canal, operated from 1831 until 1924 and runs parallel to the Potomac River from Washington D.C. to Cumberland. The total length of the canal is about 184 miles and has an elevation change of 605 feet that is accommodated by 74 canal locks. There were over 150 culverts and 11 aqueducts for the crossing of streams. The canal way is now maintained as a park that is overflowing with history. The trail is wide, flat, and made up of hard-packed dirt. Along with stunning river, forest, and mountain views throughout, this section of the towpath passes open farm fields two dams, and a pond known as Big Pool.

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, abbreviated as the C & O Canal, operated from 1831 until 1924 and runs parallel to the Potomac River from Washington D.C. to Cumberland. The total length of the canal is about 184 miles and has an elevation change of 605 feet that is accommodated by 74 canal locks. There were over 150 culverts and 11 aqueducts for the crossing of streams. The canal way is now maintained as a park that is overflowing with history. The trail is wide, flat, and made up of hard-packed dirt. Along with stunning river, forest, and mountain views throughout, this section of the towpath passes through Great Falls Park with a majestic waterfall. There are many parking areas, usually every few miles, allowing you to shorten or lengthen your ride.

This trail is located in the Susquehanna State Park which is recognized for its hiking and biking trails, camping, rock outcroppings, boating, and much more. This is a beautiful paved trail along the stunning Susquehanna River that flows majestically by. This is a rail-trail that follows the corridor built in 1926 by the Philadelphia Electric Company to transport materials from Havre d’Grace to the Conowingo Dam. From the trail you will enjoy wooded wetlands, songbirds, wildflowers, and a dense canopy overhead, shading the trail while still allowing frequent river views.

Gambrill State Park is a beautiful mountain park located on the ridge of the Catoctin Mountains and its most popular feature is the network of trails. The Yellow Trail is a challenging and demanding ride. The trail is rocky singletrack running through dense woods and over mountainous terrain. There are some strenuous climbs involved as well. You will reach the top of High Knob where there are three stone overlooks with breathtaking views of the Frederick and Middletown Valleys.

The Western Maryland Rail Trail is a paved route that is packed with history and the trail will take you through several eras of American history. You can access the trail from many points and the main trailhead is in the town of Hancock, but this route extends the entire length of the trail from Fort Frederick State Park to Pearre Road. You will parallel the C & O Canal and its unpaved towpath, which was used to transport coal from Cumberland to Georgetown. The trail has magnificent views of the Potomac River, large rock outcroppings, the ruins of the Round Top Center Mill, historical markers for Little Pool and Park head cemeteries, and wildlife such as deer and wild turkey.