The Ultimate Fall Foliage Road Trip

Maryland paints the scene of autumn at these overlooks, covered bridges, and waterways.

Start: Friendsville

Finish: Cambridge

Distance: 4 days, 5 stops, 372 miles

STOP 1

Maryland Scenic Byway

I-68, Friendsville, MD 21531

The Mountain Maryland Scenic Byway loops through the mountains with stops at scenic state parks and state forest lands. If your ideal fall scene includes water, you’re in luck. The byway includes stops at Deep Creek Lake State Park, with one mile of shoreline along Deep Creek Lake, and Swallow Falls State Park, home to Muddy Creek Falls, Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall.

Make it a weekend getaway with a cabin at Blue Moon Rising tucked away in the woods at Deep Creek Lake.

STOP 2

Green Ridge Driving Tour

14899 Green Ridge Rd SE, Oldtown, MD 21555

In Allegany County, the Green Ridge Driving Tour is the perfect side trip when traveling the Historic National Road Scenic Byway. At 44 miles in length, it requires about three hours to complete, but the beauty of Green Ridge State Forest can’t be beat. The route has several overlooks great for taking in the view and snapping pictures.

Fully immerse yourself in the changing season by primitive camping in the GRSF.

STOP 3

Covered Bridges Driving Tour

7720 Utica Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788

The Covered Bridges Driving Tour in the Catoctin Mountains (just north of Frederick) takes you past three covered bridges located within twelve miles of one another—Utica Mills, Roddy Road, and Loy’s Station. Each bridge is located right by a park, so pack a picnic and plan to stretch your legs!

Explore more of the Catoctin Mountains with a stay at Ole Mink Farm. Expand your time in Central Maryland with more fall views by bike or on foot.

STOP 4

Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge

1730 Eastern Neck Rd, Rock Hall, MD 21661

Wildlife refuges on the Eastern Shore of Maryland offer an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the season in solitude. Take in the fall colors at Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge via car, hike, or kayak. This 2,285-acre island refuge sits at the southern tip of Kent County and is home to natural habitats for waterfowl, marshland, and wildlife. You’re sure to spot some of the many species of birds that call the refuge home while taking in the turning leaves.

Maryland’s Upper Eastern Shore has so much to offer. Consider coming back to try more family-friendly adventures.

STOP 5

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

2145 Key Wallace Dr, Cambridge, MD 21613

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge has two paved bike loops from which to explore its tidal wetlands and waterfowl. One of those is Wildlife Drive, a 4-mile paved road with beautiful views of fall color along the Blackwater River. Enjoy views of sturdy pines backdropped by various water-tolerant deciduous trees. And for those excited about Halloween, check out the dead standing trees along the water’s edge known as ghost forests.