![[Fort Frederick State Park Trail Guide]](/publiclands/art/abouthead.gif)
Fort Frederick State Park and the Western Maryland Rail Trail (WMRT) are situated along the banks of the Potomac River in Western Maryland near the historic town of Hancock. The park features a unique, historic stone fort that served as Maryland's frontier defense during the French and Indian War. From the park, outdoor recreation enthusiasts can use the National C&O Canal Towpath to reach the start of the park's 23-mile Western Maryland Rail Trail. This paved, relatively level trail provides access to a pastoral countryside with historic points of interest.
Fort Frederick American history from the colonial period to the present can be discovered at Fort Frederick State Park. English colonists built the park's namesake, Fort Frederick, during the French and Indian War (1754-1763) to protect Maryland's western frontier from attack. The war between the English and the French resulted from nearly a century of imperial rivalry between the nations, who battled over land ownership in North America and throughout the world. Hostilities broke out in 1754 when George Washington, then a young Virginia militia colonel, was defeated in Western Pennsylvania by a superior force of French. After Washington's defeat, the French unleashed their Indian allies to attack the English frontier. The war finally ended with the signing of the Treaty of Paris (1763), which granted England possession of most of France's empire, including Canada.
Defending the Fort
The Fort Today Trails Please Play Safe! The Fort Frederick State Park and Western Maryland Rail Trail systems vary in terrain. Always wear a helmet when bicycling or skating. Remember, you are responsible for having the necessary skills, knowledge and equipment for a safe and environmentally friendly visit.
Walking Tour of Fort Frederick
The Western Maryland Rail Trail The trail parallels the Potomac River and C&O Canal for 23 miles to its terminus at the southern slope of Tonoloway Ridge. The first 10 miles from Big Pool Station to Hancock pass by many historic sites with interpretive exhibits. The last 13 miles conclude at Pearre Station off of Pearre Road near Woodmont Road. This section offers a more remote experience, with plenty of shade and numerous rock outcroppings. This western terminus offers parking and portable toilets. Although the park maintains the trail on a regular basis, users are cautioned to watch for rocks, sticks, leaves and other debris that fall on the trail surface. Governor Ehrlich has approved funding for another western expansion trail to end at Little Orleans, Maryland. Construction may begin as soon as fall/winter of 2006. Opportunities exist to create hike or bike circuit trips by connecting the WMRT with the C&O Canal Towpath. Visitors can create a trip over 40 miles long! In addition, the rural roads surrounding Hancock and Fort Frederick may be suitable for road biking by experienced cyclists (roads are not suitable for families with small children). The roads wind through hilly terrain, passing ponds, farms and open land, which allow for some nice vistas. Please use caution when riding on nearby roads, which do not have shoulders, and always wear a helmet and bright colors. Remember, you are responsible for having the necessary skills, knowledge and equipment for a safe visit. For more information about the Western Maryland Rail Trail visit www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/wmrt.html
Town of Hancock Other Recreation Opportunities Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park The C&O Canal Towpath parallels the Western Maryland Rail Trail, providing an excellent means to create a circuit hike or bike ride for up to 40 miles! Unlike the rail trail, the canal surface is packed stone, so wider bicycle tires are recommended. The C&O Canal Visitor Center is located just outside of Hancock at 326 East Main Street and offers a variety of interpretive displays on the history of the canal. To find out more information, including camping and boat ramp access visit www.nps.gov or call 301-678-5463.
Outdoor Adventures Pets on a leash are permitted in Fort Frederick State Park with the exception of the picnic area and the historical areas (i.e. the Fort and the CCC Museum). Pets on a leash are welcome on the C&O Canal Towpath and the Western Maryland Rail Trail.
Friends of Fort Frederick State Park Leave No Trace Leave No Trace, Inc. is a national non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and inspiring outdoor recreation through education, research and partnerships. Leave No Trace builds awareness, appreciation and respect for our wildlands. For more information visit www.lnt.org 
Directions To Fort Frederick State Park and Big Pool trailhead of the WMRT: From Washington, D.C./Baltimore: (Travel time is approximately 2 hours.) Take I-70 west past Hagerstown to exit 12 (Big Pool/Indian Springs, Route 56). Turn east on Big Pool Road. The WMRT parking lot is on the right. The park entrance is a mile further on the right. To Hancock and the WMRT: Use the same directions as for Fort Frederick State Park but take exit 3 on I-70. In Hancock, there are several parking lots to access the WMRT.
Fort Frederick State Park
Maryland Park Service General Information: 1-800-830-3974 Fort Frederick State Park is open daily, year-round.
Back to the Fort Frederick State Park page
|
