Short hikes & more hikes: Explore the diversity of the PHT corridor on footHiking opportunities are extensive throughout the PHT network and one of the best ways to experience the beauty, history and culture of the PHT corridor. Just as early Americans saw the corridor as a passage between the Chesapeake Bay and lands beyond the Alleghenies, we use some of the same routes today as pathways to discovery. Laurel HighlandsThe Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail follows the 70-mile Laurel Highlands hiking trail, stretching along Laurel Mountain at Ohiopyle State Park to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. There is something for everyone along its 70 miles, with seasoned backpackers challenging themselves on steep, rugged areas of the trails and casual hikers enjoying less strenuous areas pleasant for walking. Six trailheads provide 30-car parking lots:
There are also eight shelter areas providing overnight stays (reservation required). Visit Department of Conservation and Natural Resources | Department of Conservation and Natural Resources| Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for maps and reservation information. Great Allegheny Passage72 miles of the Great Allegheny Passage are part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. With dedicated campgrounds and amenities in nearby trail towns, the GAP trail makes for excellent day hikes or backpacking trips, and plenty of parking by which to explore a new section of the trail corridor. Trailheads:
Parking and Trailheads:
Eastern Continental DivideThe Eastern Continental Divide Loop is a developing 150-mile network of multi-use trails in Garret County, MD and Somerset County, PA. The trail is meant to eventually connect Maryland’s largest wild forests with state parks, communities, and the Great Allegheny Passage. Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail currently shares a few sections with the Eastern Continental Divide Loop, including these hiking trails:
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical ParkThe C&O Canal’s Towpath follows the 184.5 mile of the once operational Chesapeake and Ohio Canal (1828-1850). Today the canal endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural, and recreational treasures. All 184.5-miles of the canal towpath from Cumberland, MD to Washington D.C. are a part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail and can be hiked or backpacked. The towpath is dense with historical structures, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Potomac River. Visitor Centers Along the C&O Canal
There are several primitive campsites (tent camping) along the C&O Canal for hikers. This is a summarized list for every 15-25 miles. For a comprehensive list of hiker campsites and other amenities visit Camping - Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (U.S. National Park Service). Hiker Camps
Washington D.C.In the nation’s capital you can hike through the hilltops of Washington, D.C. on the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail, walk along the bank of the Potomac River, and marvel at the country’s most iconic memorials. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail passes through multiple parks in D.C. ranging from paved sidewalks to quiet pockets of natural landscape within the city:
Northern VirginiaWhile Northern Virginia remains one of the fastest growing regions in the United States, the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail provides an escape from the buzz of growing cities. The Trail offers exceptional recreation opportunities, community connectivity, and alternative commuting routes for daily users. The Northern Virginia section of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail follows the Potomac River from Loudoun County, Virginia to Fredericksburg, Virginia. Sites with hiking along the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail:
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