Learn about the Potomac River and its significant role in American history. The great Potomac River begins in the Alleghenies and flows 383 miles through some of America's most historic lands before emptying into the Chesapeake Bay. The course of the river drove the development of the region and the path of a young republic. Maryland's first Catholic settlers came to its banks in 1634 and George Washington helped settle the new capitol on its shores. During the Civil War the river divided North and South, and it witnessed John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry and the bloody Battle of Antietam. Author Garrett Peck leads readers on a journey down the Potomac, from its first fount at Fairfax Stone in West Virginia to its mouth at Point Lookout in Maryland. Combining history with recreation, Peck has written an indispensable guide to the nation's river.

From Georgetown to Harpers Ferry, through Hancock, to Cumberland, get an intimate, mile-by-mile look at the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. This great resource guide describes in detail the plants and animals, forests, geology, and environmental issues of this towpath trail. With three maps and 82 pictures, learn about nature along the entire 184 miles. Hear about life along the Canal, from the Indians to present-day residents. Take a tour of the Potomac Valley and engage in favorite actives such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Take a side trip to Rock Creek and Glover-Archbold parks, South Mountain, and Green Ridge State Forest, and get an insider's look at managing the park.