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As many of our followers know, Southern Maryland RC&D is partnering with the National Park Service and many other county agencies, heritage tourism, and recreational organizations to develop the Southern Maryland segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (PHNST).  The PHNST is a trail corridor stretching from Pittsburgh, PA to Point Lookout State Park in St. Mary's County, Maryland that celebrates the importance of the Potomac River and its cultural and natural landscapes through non-motorist, heritage tourism.  In Southern Maryland, much of the PHNST parallels or intersects with the Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway, the Indian Head Rail Trail and the Three Notch Trail making it both an on-road and off-road paved trail experience.

The distance between Point Lookout State Park and Pittsburgh, PA, however, offers a seemingly endless array of recreational opportunities, whether by bicycle, on foot or with a paddle.  But, with so many options, where does one start? Begin your plans for experiencing the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail online with the Potomac Heritage Explorer (www.potomacheritage.net), an itinerary-based travel and information blog highlighting sites along the entire length of the PHNST corridor.

You'll find trip suggestions, an interactive map for each segment of the PHNST, and photos that will convince you it's worth the trip!

Formerly Potomac Allegheny Passages, Potomac Heritage Explorer is managed by the PHNST marketing alliance, of which RC&D is now a member.  Trips range from short cycling adventures, to day trips for birders, overnight stays at historic lock houses, and paddling excursions in the Potomac and its watershed.  Check back often for new posts and outdoor heritage and adventure tourism ideas!

The network of communities and attractions in the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail corridor celebrates the history and heritage of the Potomac and upper Ohio River basins and offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. For some ideas on ways to experience the Trail corridor, go to www.potomacheritage.net. For more on the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, go to www.nps.gov/pohe.