Maryland Trails: America's Hidden 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.

Aside from the history and facts about Maryland itself, does anyone know of any tourist attractions or activities that might be of interest to visitors? Again, the answer would probably be a blank expression staring back at you. But, despite a relative lack of knowledge concerning Maryland and its possibilities, the state remains a vital tourist attraction and 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 of unparalleled historic importance and residents of Maryland and some eastern states consider it the "Grand Canyon of American history and culture." In addition to its use by the Native Americans, this vital corridor also witnessed the next chapter in American history. It’s the place where the Africans were first enslaved and the Europeans first found their freedom. Not surprisingly, this area has been pivotal in the trade, commerce and culture of the Maryland/Chesapeake Bay area for centuries.

The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail was created to preserve and honor this great history and tradition. It is one of the most accessible areas of the country's natural splendor with a wide-ranging network of locally managed trails that exceed 770 miles.

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.

Article Source: http://www.diyarticlelibrary.com

Lana Coom is the webmaster for F maryland, the #1 source on the internet for information about maryland, For questions or comments about this article why not visit: www.fyimaryland.com/articles
Click here to get your own unique version of this article.

Please Rate this Article

5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 

Not yet Rated