National Park Service · MD
Appalachian Trail — Maryland
The AT's 41-mile Maryland section rolls along the South Mountain ridge from Pen Mar to the Potomac. Modest elevation, classic ridgewalking, historic shelters.
Live · updated
Many closures remain on the Trail following Hurricane Helene's devastation. This will remain true for the foreseeable future. Visit the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) website for an up-to-date list of closures. OBSERVE ALL CLOSURES. Stay safe!
Trails ranked today
AT: Ensign Cowall Shelter
Out-and-back from Wolfsville Road to the Ensign Cowall Memorial Shelter. Rocky ridge with views off the west side during leaf-off. One of the quietest sections of the MD AT.
AT: Washington Monument → Pine Knob
Section of the AT north from Washington Monument SP across the I-70 footbridge to Pine Knob Shelter. Classic rocky Maryland ridgewalk along South Mountain. Washington Monument SP charges a seasonal day-use fee; the AT pull-off on Monument Rd is free.
Park advisories
Human-habituated bears have been frequently spotted in the McAfee Knob Area. Allowing bears access to human food or garbage causes it to lose its fear of humans. Follow all food storage regulations, use provided food lockers and never feed a bear.
About this park
Agency
National Park Service.
Official site
Coordinates
39.5000, -77.6000
Trails covered
2 curated routes at this park.