Allegheny Highlands Trail of Maryland, Protected nature trail in Western Maryland, United States
The Allegheny Highlands Trail is a 20.47-mile (33-km) route through forests and mountainous terrain, connecting Cumberland with the Mason-Dixon line. The path offers varied landscapes with tree cover, rolling sections, and open areas suitable for both hiking and cycling.
The route follows the former Western Maryland Railway, which transported goods and passengers through the Allegheny Mountains during the industrial era. The rails were later removed, but the corridor was converted into a walking path that preserves the legacy of this important transportation line.
The trail serves as a gathering space for outdoor enthusiasts from the surrounding region who come to experience the natural landscape. Locals frequently use the route for daily exercise or as a weekend destination with family and friends.
The trail features multiple access points with parking and rest facilities distributed along its length. The path is open year-round and requires no special permits or advanced arrangements for visiting.
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad runs parallel to sections of the trail between Cumberland and Frostburg, allowing visitors to combine train and hiking experiences simultaneously. This rare setup enables people to experience two different modes of travel in the same natural setting.
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