Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The eastern portion is blessed with magnificent views of the Potomac River.
Large rock outcroppings will catch your attention, as will the ruins of the Round Top
Cement Mill, which was built in the 1830s and was Hancock's largest employer dur-
ing the Civil War. To the west and just past downtown Hancock, you can buy trailside
snacks from the family-owned Hepburn Orchards Fruit Market where, in the 1920s,
more than 5000 surrounding acres were planted with fruit trees. Traveling a little
farther, you will find historical markers for Little Pool and Park Head cemeteries. Be
on the lookout for deer and wild turkey that are not phased by the loud traffic nearby.
The Western Maryland Rail Trail runs adjacent to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal for
much of its journey, and shares the same historical highlights along the way.
To vary your route, and maximize your scenery, take the Western Maryland Rail
Trail in one direction and loop back on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National His-
torical Park towpath.
DIRECTIONS
To reach the eastern end of the trail in Fort Frederick State Park, from Inter-
state 70, take exit 12 to MD Route 56 and head east toward Big Pool. The trail
parking lot is across the street from the post office.
To reach Hancock from Interstate 70, take exit 3 and travel west on MD
Route 144 for 1.4 miles. There is parking at Hancock Station, just off Main
Street.
To begin at the western end of the trail in Pearre, from Interstate 68, take
exit 77 and head south on Woodmont Road, which will intersect with the trail at
Pearre Road. Parking is available.
