The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charles Town, West Virginia and Bel Air, Maryland
The road trip from Charles Town, West Virginia to Bel Air, Maryland covers a distance of approximately 180 miles and takes around 3 hours to complete. The route offers a beautiful mix of scenery, including scenic drives through the Appalachian Mountains, charming small towns, and historic landmarks. The halfway point on this trip is Glenwood, MD, where travelers can take a break or explore the local area.
Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:
1. Visit Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a must-see destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the park's many trails, learn about the area's rich history at the visitor center, and take a guided tour of John Brown's Fort.
Interesting Fact: Harpers Ferry was the site of John Brown's raid on the federal armory in 1859, which helped spark the Civil War.
2. Drive the Skyline Drive
The Skyline Drive is a 105-mile scenic drive that offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive starts at the northern end of Shenandoah National Park and takes you through the heart of the park, offering ample opportunities to stop and take in the breathtaking vistas. The drive is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color.
Interesting Fact: The Skyline Drive was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and remains one of the most popular attractions in Virginia.
3. Tour Antietam National Battlefield
Antietam National Battlefield is the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the battlefield, or join a ranger-led tour for a more in-depth look at the history of the area. The park also features a visitor center and museum that offer exhibits on the battle and life during the Civil War.
Interesting Fact: The Battle of Antietam resulted in over 23,000 casualties, making it the bloodiest day in American history.
4. Explore Downtown Frederick
Downtown Frederick is a historic city known for its charming streets, boutique shops, and local restaurants. Visitors can explore the many historic landmarks in the town, including the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum and the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. The town's vibrant arts scene also offers plenty of galleries, theaters, and live music venues for evening entertainment.
Interesting Fact: Frederick was named one of the "Prettiest Painted Places" in America by the Paint Quality Institute in 2013.
5. Discover Rocks State Park
Rocks State Park is a 1,043-acre park located in Harford County, Maryland. The park features picturesque hiking trails, scenic vistas, and the popular King and Queen Seat, a natural rock outcropping that offers stunning views of the park and surrounding areas. The park is also a popular spot for fishing and picnicking.
Interesting Fact: Rocks State Park is home to the rare and elusive Louisiana waterthrush, a species of bird that is listed as a species of special concern in Maryland.
In conclusion, the road trip from Charles Town, West Virginia to Bel Air, Maryland offers a range of exciting destinations and activities for travelers. From exploring historical landmarks to taking in picturesque vistas, this trip is certain to leave travelers with lasting memories. This route can be comfortably completed in a day, but travelers may choose to take a more leisurely approach and extend their stay at one or more of the destinations along the way.