Maryland Trails are a Hidden National Treasure

Ask just about anyone what they know about Maryland and you should not be surprised to get a blank stare in return. At most, you might find some rather astute people that are aware that Maryland is one of the states that was used to create Washington D.C., but that would be about it.

It’s a pity that no one really knows of the various tourist attractions or activities of interest in Maryland. If you ask them, they will look at you blankly, trying to figure out what you are talking about. However, the truth is that the state of Maryland has immense possibilities and is an important tourist attraction besides being a vital link to the founding of the United States.

Not only is the state of Maryland with its precious waterways a vital link to the creation of the United States, it was also a very special place for Native Americans as well. Known as the Potomac River Corridor, the waterways linking the Chesapeake Bay to its tributaries were used by Native Americans for thousands of years prior to the arrival of the Europeans.

The Potomac River Corridor is considered by residents of Maryland and some eastern states as the "Grand Canyon of American history and culture." Beginning with its use by the Native Americans, this vital corridor etched the next chapter into American history by being the place where Europeans first found their freedom and Africans first became enslaved. To be sure, this pivotal area has fueled the commerce, trade, and culture of the Maryland/Chesapeake Bay area for centuries.

Later, the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail was created to honor and preserve this great tradition and history. This trail consists of a wide-ranging network of locally managed trails stretched over 770 miles. It is one of the most accessible areas of natural splendor in the country.

Starting in West Virginia, the Potomac River itself winds its way all along the southern Maryland border and is traced by the Heritage Scenic Trail along the entire route. In fact, one can hike all the way from Washington D.C. to Seward in Pennsylvania without ever leaving the trails.

These historic trails offer more than biking or hiking, of course. Other exciting outdoors possibilities are to paddle down the various streams in the Potomac River network or to drive along the Maryland countryside and its scenic byways. You will be rewarded with some of the most breath taking sights that are there along the east coast of the United States.

The Potomac Heritage Scenic Trail rates among the best public works projects that can truly benefit the public if they choose to use it. It offers new and exciting things to people each and every time they visit. Despite a relative lack of knowledge about the place, Maryland is one of the most awe-inspiring pieces of Americana that this nation has to offer. It is home to the Potomac Heritage Scenic Trail and has a wide range of activities and scenic places to visit.

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Lana Coom is the chief editor for F maryland, the #1 source on the internet for information about maryland. For more articles on maryland visit: www.fyimaryland.com/articles
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