Maryland is known as America in Miniature, and for good reason! For a smaller state, Maryland has an abundance of natural features packed into its 12,000+ square miles. If you’re ready to explore some of Maryland’s best natural wonders, overlooks, and parks via road trip, check out the below expedition. Drive time is around three hours but you’ll want to make sure to account for the time you’ll spend at each stop along the way. We’ve included backroads to further enhance the scenic experience. Any vehicle can enjoy the route but off-roading capabilities would be a plus if you really want to explore further. Read on, fuel up your vehicle, and channel your inner-adventurer.
Much of this rugged road trip travels along Route 40, which is also known as Historic National Road. There are plenty of backroads and turns to take off of the route, leading you to hidden gems galore.
Google Maps
Why not start in the Green Ridge State Forest area, where Orleans Road NE will lead you to Point Lookout. This overloook features Maryland on one side and West Virginia on the other. That winding body of water is the Potomac River, which separates the two states.
Flickr / Steve 1828 Point Lookout, Little Orleans, MD 21766, USA
While you could jump back on Route 40, consider traveling along Route 144 to the next destination. You’ll experience more scenery by taking the road less traveled, which will take you to Zumbrun Overlook. This picturesque spot is a reminder of just how stunning western Maryland truly is.
Google / Scott Keller Zumbrun Overlook, Flintstone, MD 21530, USA
Now follow Route 40 west again and take a detour to Route 36. You’ll definitely want tires with good tread because you’ll literally be driving up a mountain. Dan’s mountain is full of twists and turns, eventually leading to the incredibly scenic Dan’s Rock Overlook. The views stretch on for miles, making for the perfect spot to reconnect with nature and put things into perspective.
Flickr / Javcon117* Dans Rock Overlook, 17600 Old Dans Rock Rd SW, Rawlings, MD 21557, USA
Head back down the mountain, continue your journey onto Route 40, and you’ll soon spot Penn Alps Restaurant & Craft Shop. This mid-way point in your adventure is the perfect place to fill your belly and shop at the onsite craft stores. Pick up a souvenir to remember this unique road trip.
Flickr / JPreisler.com Penn Alps Restaurant & Craft Shop, 125 Casselman Rd, Grantsville, MD 21536, USA
Just a few minutes away is Casselman River Bridge State Park. It’s home to this historic bridge, which dates back to 1813. The bridge was once a part of the old National Road, perfect for horse-drawn wagons to cross while carrying a variety of goods.
Flickr / Jon Dawson Casselman River Bridge State Park, 10240 National Pike #3, Grantsville, MD 21536, USA
Now head a bit south to New Germany Road, which leads to New Germany State Park. Covering 483 acres, this Maryland state park has plenty of trails to explore and water views to photograph.
Google / Terri Fuller New Germany State Park, 349 Headquarters Ln, Grantsville, MD 21536, USA
Did you know that all of Maryland’s lakes are manmade? That even includes the state’s largest lake, which you can enjoy at Deep Creek Lake State Park. Enjoy a hike, a water adventure, or simply admire just how marvelous this manmade wonder truly is. You’ll find this gem by continuing south along New Germany Road to Glendale Road.
Flickr / Nicolas Raymond Deep Creek Lake State Park, 898 State Park Rd, Swanton, MD 21561, USA
This epic road trip ends with a bang! Head towards Oakland to Swallow Falls State Park, which unlike the previous stop, is certainly NOT manmade. This park features a few natural waterfalls, including the breathtaking Muddy Creek Falls, Maryland’s highest cascading waterfall.
Flickr / Doug Kerr Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, USA
Does this adventure have you in the mood for an off-the-paved-path day trip? If so, what are you waiting for?! Gas up and partake in this wondrous journey through Maryland.
Google Maps
Flickr / Steve 1828
Point Lookout, Little Orleans, MD 21766, USA
Google / Scott Keller
Zumbrun Overlook, Flintstone, MD 21530, USA
Flickr / Javcon117*
Dans Rock Overlook, 17600 Old Dans Rock Rd SW, Rawlings, MD 21557, USA
Flickr / JPreisler.com
Penn Alps Restaurant & Craft Shop, 125 Casselman Rd, Grantsville, MD 21536, USA
Flickr / Jon Dawson
Casselman River Bridge State Park, 10240 National Pike #3, Grantsville, MD 21536, USA
Google / Terri Fuller
New Germany State Park, 349 Headquarters Ln, Grantsville, MD 21536, USA
Flickr / Nicolas Raymond
Deep Creek Lake State Park, 898 State Park Rd, Swanton, MD 21561, USA
Flickr / Doug Kerr
Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, USA
If you’d like to check out more natural wonders in Maryland cover even more of the state, be sure to also check out our natural wonders road trip!
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