Embark on an Outdoor Adventure on an Exhilarating Appalachian Mountain Holiday

Just a short drive from the urban energy of Washington, DC, the Catoctin and Appalachian Mountains offer scenic backdrops for an outdoor adventure or relaxing alpine escape. Explore the area’s rolling foothills and majestic peaks, and enjoy a birds-eye view of the Capital Region USA.

Maryland:

Stretching across western Maryland’s Frederick County, the Catoctin Mountains form a 50 mile long section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, USA. Within these gentle peaks, which crest at an elevation of 1,900 feet, visitors can find a wealth of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking and camping. To take advantage of these activities, visit Catoctin Mountain Park or Cunningham Falls State Park, both known for their natural beauty and family-friendly hikes and climbs. For easy exploration, the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Byway, connects the two parks, taking visitors past verdant farmland and historic sites along the way. If you prefer not to drive, experience Maryland’s mountain landscapes from the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, which takes passengers through 32 miles of rolling terrain from Cumberland to Frostburg. Wisp Resort is Maryland’s go-to ski destination, with downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and snow tubing all offered onsite.

Virginia:

Virginia boasts the Capital Region’s most challenging terrain for hikers, skiers and mountain bikers. Roughly one-fourth of the famous Appalachian Trail runs through Virginia, much of it through the Blue Ridge Mountains, a smaller chain within the US Appalachian Mountain range. The Blue Ridge are home to Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile route known as “America’s Favorite Drive”. While always beautiful, the Blue Ridge Parkway, which celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2010, is most vibrant in autumn, when leaf peepers can marvel at the foliage’s flaming hues of scarlet, gold and orange. Further south in Virginia, the mountains become steeper and the hiking more demanding. If you’re up for the challenge, consider scaling Mt. Rogers, which is the state’s highest point at 5,729 feet. Or, ski down the slopes at Wintergreen Resort, The Homestead, Massanutten or Bryce Resort, all of which cater to both beginning and advanced-level skiers.

First time planning a Washington, DC travel holiday? Let us show you the basics of the Capital Region USA.

Explore the Trails and Valleys of the US Blue Ridge Mountains

 Whether dreaming of a backcountry camping trip, winter snowboard adventure or romantic escape, we’ll help you plan your ideal Appalachian Mountain holiday. Find everything you need to tour the historical cornerstone of the United States. Sign up now for travel information and exclusive offers!