Hiking

The famed Appalachian Trail crosses the spine of South Mountain just west of Frederick, from the Potomac River to the Pennsylvania line. Several well-known and scenic viewpoints along Maryland's 40-mi stretch include Annapolis Rocks and Weverton Cliffs. The best access points are Gathland State Park, Washington Monument State Park, and Greenbrier State Park—and they even have parking. Frederick, MD.

For more information, contact the Appalachian Trail Conference. 799 Washington St., Harpers Ferry, WV, 25425. 304/535–6331. www.appalachiantrail.org.