The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Mineral County

The Great Allegheny Passage from Cumberland to Frostburg offers a unique hiking experience, following the historic Western Maryland Railway route through Maryland's mountains. You'll traverse the impressive Cumberland Narrows, a 900-foot-deep gorge, and pass through the lighted Brush Tunnel, which is shared with the scenic railroad. The trail is primarily packed, crushed limestone, offering a smooth surface as it winds through diverse, often wooded scenery.

This difficult 24.1-mile (38.9 km) hike involves a continuous 2227 feet (679 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 10 hours and 29 minutes. Parking is readily available at the Cumberland trailhead. For a less strenuous return, consider taking the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad from Frostburg back to Cumberland, which can also transport bikes. This makes it a great option for those who want the challenge of the uphill without the full out-and-back.

This section of the GAP trail is rich in history and natural features, including the Mason-Dixon Line Monument. You might even spot a vintage train from the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad running parallel to the trail. Frostburg itself is a charming college town with amenities, making it a rewarding destination after your long climb.

The C&O Canal Trail: Cumberland to North Branch offers a unique journey through history and nature, following the path of the 19th-century canal. You'll hike along the picturesque Potomac River valley, often shaded by dense woods, and encounter well-preserved historical features like Locks 73, 74, and 75 (Keifer's Lock) near North Branch. The surface is primarily dirt and gravel, which can be rough in spots with roots and mud, but the overall experience is a tranquil step back in time.

This moderate 9.5-mile (15.2 km) hike with a minimal 74 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain takes about 3 hours and 50 minutes, making it an excellent option for a half-day outing. Parking is readily available in Cumberland, which serves as a trail town for both the C&O Canal and the Great Allegheny Passage. No permits are needed, and the trail is generally accessible, though conditions can be muddy after rain, so plan your footwear accordingly.

What makes this section truly special is its historical significance as part of the larger 184.5-mile C&O Canal Towpath, preserving a vital era of American commerce. It also connects directly to the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) in Cumberland, forming a continuous 330-mile traffic-free route. Beyond its historical value, the trail is a natural refuge, home to over 200 rare and threatened species, and offers excellent birding opportunities, particularly around North Branch.

The Knobley Tunnel Trail loop from Cumberland offers a relaxed journey along an old railroad bed, providing pleasant views of the North Branch of the Potomac River. You'll cross a distinctive 386-foot wooden bridge, a highlight of this easy 3.8-mile (6.2 km) hike, which features only 44 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 33 minutes.

When planning your visit, note that the historic Knobley Tunnel is closed for safety, so you won't be able to pass through it. Be prepared for some overgrown sections and potentially deteriorating planks on the Maryland side of the trail due to less maintenance. This makes it a good option for a quick, low-effort outing, but check conditions if you prefer perfectly manicured paths.

This route holds historical significance as part of an abandoned Baltimore and Ohio Railroad line and serves as a vital connector to much longer trails like the C&O Canal Towpath and the Great Allegheny Passage. It's a great way to experience a piece of local history and link up with extensive scenic routes extending from Washington, D.C., to Pittsburgh, making it a key part of the region's rail-trail network.