This book is for hikers who like to learn as they walk and history buffs who want firsthand experience with terrain that they have read about. It couples an introduction to some fine trails with information on events in a crucial theater of the American Civil War - the region around the national and secessionist capitals.

Across the country, more than 1600 unused railroad corridors have been converted to level, public, multiuse trails, where people can enjoy a fitness run, a leisurely bike ride, or a stroll with the family. In this updated guide in the popular series, the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy presents the Mid-Atlantic region's finest rail-trails plus other great multiuse trails. Rail-Trails Mid-Atlantic covers 60 trails in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Many rail-trails are paved and run through the most scenic parts of town. Others, such as the 34-mile Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail, travel along dense forests, open fields, and lush waterways. Some explore the area's history, such as Maryland's 13-mile Baltimore and Annapolis Trail. Tour the nation's capital, visit the site of an historic Civil War battle, and enjoy the serenity of the rural countryside along the Mid-Atlantic's many great multiuse trails. This full-color book includes succinct descriptions of each trail from start to finish, plus at-a-glance summary information indicating permitted uses, surface type, length, and directions to trailheads for each trail. Every trip has a detailed map that includes start and end points, trailhead, parking, restroom facilities, and other amenities.

Explore 57 of the best rail-trails and other multiuse pathways in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. All across the country, unused railroad corridors have been converted into public multiuse trails. Level and accessible, these paths are ideal for a brisk fitness walk, bike ride, or stroll with the family. In Rail-Trails Mid-Atlantic, the experts from Rails-to-Trails Conservancy present the best of these routes, as well as other multiuse pathways, in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. Many rail-trails are paved and run through the most scenic parts of town. Others, such as the 34-mile Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail, traverse dense forests, open fields, and lush waterways. Some explore the area’s history, like Maryland’s 13-mile Baltimore and Annapolis Trail. Tour the nation’s capital, visit the site of a historic Civil War battle, and enjoy the serenity of the rural countryside along the Mid-Atlantic’s many great pathways. Whether you’re on feet, wheels, or skates, you’ll love the variety in this collection of multiuse trails! Inside you’ll find: Informative descriptions written by rail-trail experts Detailed maps for every featured trail Driving directions to trailheads Icons indicating the activities that each trail can accommodate Information you can rely on from the official guide to rail-trails “You can now throw away all your self-help books on fighting depression, losing weight, toning muscles, finding something to do with your kids, and learning American history. Just use this guide, find a great trail—and enjoy!” —Peter Harnik, Director, Center for City Park Excellence, Trust for Public Land

Explores the Appalachian Trail through Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York.