Billy Goat Trail

Billy Goat Trail is a hiking path in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Maryland that runs along steep rock walls for several miles. The route is divided into three sections, each with different difficulty levels and terrain types, passing through dense forest with occasional clearings.

The area became accessible for recreation in the 20th century after the nearby canal lost its commercial function. The natural rock formations were created through millennia of river erosion that carved deep into the surrounding stone.

The name comes from the goats that once climbed the steep rocks and still appear in local folklore today. Hikers now follow the same narrow paths along the rock faces that offer a direct view of the rushing river water.

Section A requires experience climbing over rocks and sturdy footwear, while the other areas demand fewer technical skills. Dry weather is advisable, as wet stones become slippery and make the crossing considerably harder.

The rock blocks show clear traces of glacier movements from the last ice age that ended about ten thousand years ago. In some places you can spot fossil imprints in the stone layers that are millions of years old.

Location: Maryland

GPS coordinates: 38.99380,-77.24580

Latest update: December 20, 2025 00:11