Dans Mountain

Dans Mountain is a prominent peak in Maryland's Appalachian region featuring a distinctive rocky summit called Dan's Rock. The mountain rises sharply from the surrounding lowlands, with a steep escarpment that dominates the landscape and is visible from many locations in the area.

The peak was named after Daniel Cresap, an early settler in Allegany County who was part of the region's colonial history. The name reflects the early European settlement patterns that shaped this Appalachian area.

The mountain forms part of Dans Mountain State Park, offering 3500 acres of protected land for outdoor recreation and environmental education.

The summit is accessible via a road from Route 36 south of Frostburg, with free parking available at observation areas. Trails in this area are well-established, making the viewpoint on the peak easy to reach for most visitors.

The site features the most substantial rock face among Maryland's mountains, a geological formation that extends across state lines. This dramatic escarpment continues into Pennsylvania and West Virginia, connecting different ridge systems across the region.