Washington County, MD is blessed with many great parks, trails, and green spaces.  One of my favorite at this time of the year is the Western Maryland Rail-Trail.

The asphalt paved trail (which opened in 1998) runs from Big Pool, Maryland to Pearre Station, Maryland (a total of about 22.5 miles)  It was previously the right-of-way rail tracks for the Western Maryland Railway, and was purchased by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and converted into a shared-use trail that is suitable for walking, biking, or even rollerblading.[1]

What do I love about this trail?  Well for one, since it was built over the existing railway bed, it’s nice and level terrain.  There are no hills and valleys, which make it much easier when walking or biking (a kid’s stroller can also easily be pushed along its length).

Secondly, it’s not that long.  One can easily bike from the trail-head at Big Pool in the morning, have a leisurely lunch somewhere in Hancock, MD, and then enjoy the return trip in the afternoon.

Third?  It’s paved.  No mud or dirt ruts to contend with – just a smooth and even surface to walk or ride on throughout the entire length.

Lastly, it is a great chance to get outdoors and get some exercise – and during this time of year, the autumn colors that line the path are an added bonus (although the trail is great at any time of the year).

If you haven’t ventured out on the Western Maryland Rail-Trail as of yet, I highly recommend it.  Get on at either trail-head or hop on at Hancock and go in either direction.  Whether you bike or hike, you are sure to enjoy a morning or afternoon of peace and tranquility as you traverse the trail.

For more information, visit their website at  www.westernmarylandrailtrail.org/WMRT/

[1] Western Maryland Rail Trail. (2016, June 30). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 03:47, June 30, 2016, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Western_Maryland_Rail_Trail&oldid=727616312