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The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is one of eleven national scenic trails in the United States. It is not a single trail but a network of locally managed trails running through many contrasting landscapes between the mouth of the Potomac River and the Allegheny Highlands.
Another massive and historically important American trail is the Lewis and Clark Trail. It opened up the western half of the continent to American expansion and colonization. While the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is almost a thousand miles long, it is not like the Appalachian Trail. If one is planning to do an AT-Thru hike, then one will need to be prepared and have all the essential equipment, but the Potomac trails are mostly in small sections that can be easily completed.
The Length And Purpose Of The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
The total existing and planning trails of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail are over 830 miles. The trail is intended to be a history lesson about the colonial and early states of the United States. As it is a network of discontinued trails, there is no real starting location for the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.
- Designated: National Scenic Trail
- Length: 830 Miles (Existing and Planned)
- Managed: By The National Park Service
The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail serves a number of purposes and combines recreation with history and nature. The trail is managed by the National Park Service and a number of different agencies and organizations.
- States: Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia
The trail has something for everyone, from short walks to multi-day hikes. The United States has a rich history, and sometimes the best way to explore that history is out and about. There are more ways to learn about the heritage of the country than in museums and with history books.
How The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Explores American History
The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail bridges the boundary between the northern and southern states. According to the Bureau of Land Management, it includes parts of the Underground Railroad (that carried escaped slaves from the South as they fled to the North across the Potomac River). The trail also follows paths that were explored by George Washington.
Historical Significance:
- Underground Railroad: Where Escaped Slaves Fled To The North
- George Washington: Includes Paths Explored By George Washington
The trail traces the natural, historical, and cultural features of the Potomac River corridor and region. The trail is a network with numerous side trails and alternatives - sometimes with trails parallel to each other on either side of the river.
- Offers: History, Nature, Recreation, Wildlife, and Conservation
Hiking the trail is a great activity for families. Learn about the history of the USA together with activities that the whole family can enjoy. Many of the sections are easy to hike while others may be more strenuous.
Sections Of The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
There are too many sections to fully list out here, but when it is complete some of the major sections will be:
- Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath: 185 Miles - Located In The Chesapeake and Ohio National Historical Park
- Mount Vernon Trail: 18.5 Miles In The George Washington Memorial Parkway
- Potomac Heritage Trail: 10 Miles In The George Washington Memorial Parkway
- Potomac Heritage Trail On-Road Bicycling Route: 27 Miles Long
- Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail: 70 Miles In The Laurel Ridge State Park
- Great Allegheny Passage: 73 Miles Between Cumberland, Maryland and Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania
- Alexandria Heritage Trail: 23 Miles In Alexandria, Virginia
Sections of the national scenic trail criss-cross Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia. The length of the sections ranges from as short as around a mile long to as much as 185 miles long. There is a one-mile-long trail along the north shore of Piscataway Creek in Piscataway Park.
Some of the sections are hiking only, while others are for multi-use (like horseback riding and bicycling). Hikers, bicyclists, and boaters, in particular, can explore the stunning Chesapeake area. Many sections are managed by different organizations and one will need to check with them for updates and status.