With over 60,000 acres of public land, Allegany County is a paradise for all things outdoors. Plan your visit to coincide with the C&O Canal’s 50th anniversary, celebrating the eighth most-visited national park and one of the country’s most beloved hiking and biking trails. Immerse yourself in the history, outdoor adventure, and culinary delights of the Mountain Side of Maryland.
Cover photo: Father and daughter cycling the Great Allegheny Passage trail.
Day One:
Morning
Grab an early breakfast and a pre-packaged lunch from Oak Barrel Cafe before heading out on the Potomac River for a paddle. Along the way, you’ll encounter historical towns and landmarks, cross under the tracks of the Western Maryland Railway, and float past Green Ridge State Forest.
Afternoon
Stop for lunch along the C&O Canal Towpath, a 12-foot wide, nearly-level path that was built for mules to pull the canal boats from Cumberland, Md., to Georgetown. Take in the views from the county’s most spectacular overlooks on the Green Ridge State Forest’s Scenic Driving Tour.
Local Tip: Schedule a tasting at Charis Winery and Distillery for award-winning wines and brandy, as well as seven different oils and balsamic vinegar.
Evening
After a day of adventure, head to Locust Post Brewery, located on a 26-acre farmstead, for brews and a pizza dinner. Catch an amazing sunset from the historic Town Hill Overlook before settling in for the night at Town Hill Bed and Breakfast.
Day Two:
Morning
There’s no better way to start your day than breakfast and coffee at Clatter Café in Frostburg. From there, hop on the Great Allegheny Passage to cycle 16 miles from Frostburg to Cumberland. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue onto the C&O Canal Towpath for some additional miles where the two trails meet in Cumberland.
Afternoon
Fill up on delicious sandwiches and wraps, including house-smoked pastrami, at Corner Tavern & Cafe. Then explore the many murals and artwork throughout downtown Cumberland as you head to the Crossroads of America Exhibit at the Allegany Museum, highlighting the evolution of transportation from the mid-1700s to the early 1900s, including a fully-restored 1825 Conestoga Wagon and 1902 Oldsmobile.
Evening
For quality of service, hospitality, and food that is second to none, reserve a table at Ristorante Ottaviani, serving the best steaks and seafood around. Stop at Dig Deep Brewing Co. for a nightcap before walking across the street to a stay at the Fairfield Inn in Cumberland, right off the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath trails.
