Travel & Outdoors

Peep Show

Enjoy the canopy of colors at one of these fabulous fall foliage destinations.

Sponsored by St. Michaels, in Talbot County MD.

We love city life as much as any urbanite, but when Mother Nature puts on her annual extravaganza, there’s no better time to fly the coop. And while soaring high above forests painted red, yellow, and orange isn’t entirely possible without wings, we’ve got the next best thing: a plethora of places to enjoy a hawk’s-eye view of the fall palette. (There are no guarantees, of course, but prime leaf-peeping season usually falls around mid-October.) Some of these panoramic perches are close to home, while others are a day’s drive. But whether you’re a leaf loyalist or leafing out for the first time, our viewfinder, including ideas for dining and lodging (all aboard for a night’s sleep on a red caboose!), covers all the options. One caveat: The magic and mystery of some of these spots is that they are remote, so be forewarned that taking a car hike for sustenance or a place to sleep might be required. Now, into the woods.

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PANORAMIC PEAKS


Bear Rocks Preserve,
Dolly Sods Wilderness Petersburg, WV

Barren. Beautiful. Otherworldly. If you’ve ever visited this ridge-top preserve, you know how eerily enchanting it can be. The barrens’ whitish-gray boulders stand out more vividly in the fall, when the blueberry and huckleberry bushes turn crimson red and the treetops below the ridge blaze with color. Monongahela National Forest, Cheat-Potomac Ranger District, 304-257-4488.

Refuel: Make tracks to the Hickory Dining Room in Canaan Valley Resort State Park’s main lodge and feast on braised short ribs, meatloaf, and grilled salmon. 230 Main Lodge Rd., Davis, WV, 800-622-4121.

nod off: Consider a stay at a cabin or cottage at the newly renovated Canaan Valley Resort. Room rates start at $119/night.

Dan’s Rock Midland, MD

Beloved by I-68 travelers and Frostburg State University students (both mere minutes away), Dan’s Rock (2,898 feet) is the highest point in Allegany County. Enjoy sensational views of the upper Potomac River Valley from this outcropping atop Dan’s Mountain and its new gazebo. Locals say sunsets are simply awesome. Allegany County Department of Tourism, 301-777-5132.

Refuel: Fill up on fresh seafood and house-made desserts at City Lights American Grill & Bar. 59 Baltimore St., Cumberland, 301-722-9800.

nod off: Alpacas at River’s Edge Farm includes a kitchen (and access to real alpacas!); $100/night. 20020 Potomac Overlook, Oldtown, 301-478-5424.

High Rock Cascade, MD

This South Mountain overlook has a fan following with its own Facebook page. (And judging by an abundance of graffiti, also its own version of a message board.) Join the Appalachian Trail hikers and visitors to nearby Pen Mar Park, who find the vistas from this 1,800-foot peak irresistible. South Mountain Recreation Area, 301-791-4767.

Refuel: After a day of exertion, the historic Carriage House Inn is a good place to stuff yourself silly on seafood scampi and veal Oscar. 200 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, 301-447-2366.

nod off: Visit the Land of Nod in the comfort of your own luxury log cabin at Ole Mink Farm Recreation Resort. Cabins for two cost $350 for a two-night minimum stay. 12806 Mink Farm Rd., Thurmont, 301-271-7012.

Seneca Rocks Elkins, WV

One of the region’s most dramatic rock formations, Seneca Rocks’ narrow slabs thrust 900-feet skyward. One way to reach the top is to climb their sheer walls. The acrophobic may prefer taking the 1.3-mile uphill trail that leads to an observation deck near the summit. Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, 304-567-2827.

Refuel: Designer pizzas and an inventive roster of pastas round out the menu at C.J. Maggie’s. 309 Davis Ave., Elkins, WV, 304-636-1730.

nod off: The Holiday Inn Express is nothing fancy, but it’s clean and offers reasonable rates, starting at $117/night. 50 Martin St., Elkins, WV, 304-630-2266.

Great Falls (Shutterstock) , Bear Rocks Preserve at Dolly Sods Wilderness (Shutterstock) , Jennings Randolph Lake MD Overlook (David Colwell) , Rocky Gap Run (Nicholas A. Tonelli).

VALLEY VISTAS


Hawk Point Overlook Drumore, PA

The 400-foot-high cliffs lining the lower Susquehanna River in small-but-scenic Susquehannock State Park offer terrific river tableaus. Feed one of the overlook’s coin-operated viewers and focus downstream, where you’ll see a renowned bald eagle sanctuary (Mt. Johnson Island) and, farther on, the upper Conowingo Reservoir. Susquehannock State Park, 717-548-3361.

Refuel: There’s something for everyone at the family-friendly Dolce Vita Pizzeria & Grill, specializing in subs, cheesesteaks, and, of course, pizza. 33 Friendly Dr., Quarryville, PA, 717-284-4499.

nod off: It’s not every day you have the chance to sleep in a historic train car, so hop on board The Red Caboose Motel for a unique experience. Rates start at $85/night. 312 Paradise Ln., Ronks, PA, 717-687-5000.

Hogback Overlook
at Skyline Drive Rileyville, VA

Picking one’s favorite Skyline Drive overlook isn’t easy, but we’ll go with Hogback (milepost 21). The longest of the park’s 75 vistas, it boasts (arguably) the most Zen panorama of the Shenandoah Valley, featuring Massanutten Mountain’s twin ridges and many river bends. Gaze away—and remember to breathe. Shenandoah National Park, 540-999-3500.

Refuel: For a splurge, dinner at The Inn at Little Washington ($208 per person on a Saturday night) wins every area accolade. 309 Middle St., Washington, VA, 540-675-3800.

nod off: No need to wander in search of slumber, book a room at The Inn at Little Washington, a historic structure, considered one of the top hotels in the state. Rooms start at $460/night.

Jennings Randolph Lake
MD Overlook Bloomington, MD

Maryland and West Virginia share this impoundment of the Potomac River’s North Branch. Each state has an overlook and Maryland’s is crazy gorgeous. See the length of the lake, the dam, and miles of mountainsides without even leaving the parking lot. Jennings Randolph Lake Recreation Area, 304-355-2346.

Refuel: Settle in to a plate of surf and turf or filet mignon at Dutch’s at Silver Tree. 567 Glendale Rd., Oakland, 301-387-0525.

nod off: The Inn at Deep Creek is a recently renovated rustic retreat with fireplaces and a pet-friendly policy. Rooms start at $179.99/night. 19638 Garrett Hwy., Oakland, 301-387-5534.

Woodstock Tower
Observation Site Woodstock, VA

Take a scenic mountain (Massanutten). Build a tower on it (Woodstock Tower). What you get are 360-degree views of the Shenandoah Valley that will blow you away. If you don’t mind a two-mile hike (or heights), this overlook may beat anything Skyline Drive has to offer—and it’s free. George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Lee Ranger District, 540-984-4101.

Refuel: Indulge in sandwiches and burgers at Spring House Tavern. 325 S. Main St., Woodstock, VA, 540-459-4755.

nod off: Holiday Inn Express Woodstock is in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and offers a complimentary breakfast. Rooms start at $100/night. 1130 Motel Dr., Woodstock, VA, 540-459-5000.

WONDERFUL WATERFALLS


Blackwater Falls Davis, WV

Dramatic and alluring, Blackwater Falls and its plunge pool are the supermodels of West Virginia nature photography. The Blackwater River’s tannin-stained waters plummet some 57 feet over a broad ledge, before sluicing down a deep, scenic gorge. For close-up shots, take the long wooden stairway to the falls overlook. Blackwater Falls State Park, 304-259-5216.

Refuel: Burritos and beer at Hellbenders Burritos are the perfect après-trail treats. 457 William Ave., Davis, WV, 304-259-5557.

nod off: After enjoying the falls, take a plunge in the hot tub at Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge. Rooms start at $97. 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd., Davis, 800-225-5982.

Great Falls Potomac, MD & McLean, VA

Great Falls appears equal parts rock and river as the Potomac descends 76 feet in less than a mile. Whitewater kayakers may disagree, but our favorite vistas are the national park overlooks. Try Olmsted Island’s dramatic perch atop the falls in Maryland or the upstream view from Overlook 1 in Virginia. MD: Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center, 301-767-3714;< VA: Great Falls Park, 703-285-2965.

Refuel: The Old Angler’s Inn excels at comfort food with a modern twist. (Picture fried Amish chicken breast with Tuscan kale and carrot-ginger puree, for instance.) 10801 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac, MD, 301-365-2425.

nod off: For a trip to bygone days, rent a historic lockhouse along the C & O Canal. For more information, go to canaltrust.org or call 301-714-2233.

Muddy Creek Falls Oakland, MD

Muddy Creek remains Maryland’s most spectacular waterfall, a sheer, 53-foot drop. Located in Swallow Falls State Park, Muddy Creek bests its name-grabbing neighbor in height and its taller rival, Cunningham Falls, in free fall. Hike past towering hemlocks to the scenic overlook, and descend the stairway to snap photos. Swallow Falls State Park, 301-387-6938.

Refuel: Meat lovers will relish the steaks at Pine Lodge Steakhouse, but there are plenty of pasta, poultry, and seafood options, too. 1520 Deep Creek Dr., McHenry, 301-387-6500.

nod off: Carmel Cove Inn is a picturesque property that’s an easy drive from Swallow Falls State Park and earns rave reviews on TripAdvisor. Rooms start at $175. 105 Monastery Way, Swanton, 301-387-0067.

Ricketts Glen Benton, PA

Welcome to Oz, falls lovers. The hillsides here are bathed in cold water, as Kitchen Creek plunges over rocks and shatters into more than 20 waterfalls. Flip-flops (or ruby slippers) won’t cut it; don sturdy, non-slip footwear for hiking to Ganoga Falls (94 feet) and its smaller siblings. Ricketts Glen State Park, 570-477-5675.

Refuel: The Ricketts Glen Hotel bills itself as “conveniently located in the middle of nowhere.” Even so, you’ll find sophisticated classics such as chicken marsala and veal parmigiana on the menu. 221 State Route 118, Benton, PA, 570-477-3656.

nod off: As the name implies, Mattress and Muffin Inn is a place to get a good night’s sleep and also carbo-load for your adventure in the morning. Rooms start at $95/night. 240 Main St., Benton, PA, 570-925-5466.

GORGE-OUS SCENERY


Baughman Rock
Overlook Ohiopyle, PA

The Youghiogheny, a premier whitewater river, charges through the heart of Western Pennsylvania’s vast Ohiopyle State Park. Rapids-runners prefer the “Yough” in springtime, but leaf-peepers should visit in fall. Grab your hiking staff and hit the Baughman Rock Overlook to savor the Laurel Highlands at their most glorious. Ohiopyle State Park, 724-329-8591.

Refuel: From pasta to seafood and steak, there’s something to please every palate at River’s Edge Cafe at River’s Edge Bed and Breakfast. 203 Yough St., Confluence, PA, 814-395-5059.

nod off: Housed in an 1890s home with a wraparound porch and river views, River’s Edge Bed and Breakfast is the epitome of charm. Rooms are $75/night.

Coopers Rock
Overlook Bruceton Mills, WV

Spanning the treetops, a rustic stone-and-timber bridge leads you to Coopers Rock Overlook and its incredible views of the Cheat River Gorge some 1,900 feet below. The Civilian Conservation Corps developed Coopers Rock during the Great Depression. Several of the CCC’s original structures survive, including the overlook’s carved steps and nearby picnic shelters. Coopers Rock State Forest, 304-594-1561.

Refuel: If you don’t spot any bears on your hike, you can catch them over quesadillas at Black Bear Burritos. 132 Pleasant St., Morgantown, WV, 304-296-8696.

nod off: A pet-friendly atmosphere plus complimentary breakfast equal happiness for the weary traveler at Microtel Inn & Suites By Wyndham. Rooms start at $109/night. 886 Casteel Rd., Hazelton, WV, 304-379-7900.

Evitts Mountain Flintstone, MD

What mends a broken heart better than the solace of a wilderness canyon? So reasoned a lovelorn 18th-century Englishman who built his home high above Rocky Gap Run. Stroll easy Canyon Overlook Trail for dramatic vistas of the cliff-lined gorge or descend into Rocky Gap Canyon, before ascending to the summit. Rocky Gap State Park, 125000 Pleasant Valley Rd., Flintstone, 301-722-1480.

Refuel: The all-you-can-eat buffet at Lakeside Restaurant in Rocky Gap Casino Resort can quiet those powerful pangs of hunger. 16701 Lake View Rd., Flintstone, 301-784-8400.

nod off: Given that the new casino is a stone’s throw from the park, if you haven’t spent all your money on gear at REI, try your luck at the slots. Rooms start at $149/night.

Mt. Minsi Delaware Water Gap, PA

Like opposing watchtowers, Mt. Minsi (PA) and Mt. Tammany (NJ) survey the magnificent Delaware Water Gap. The roughly 1,500-foot peaks were ridge mates until the Delaware River carved a rift between them. Best view? Although Tammany’s taller (slightly), skip I-80’s bridge toll and traffic, park in Pennsylvania and hike Minsi.
 Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, 570-828-2253.

Refuel: Soups, salads, and foods of land and sea are the menu mainstays at Sycamore Grille. 92 Main St., Delaware Water Gap, PA, 570-426-1200.

nod off: Deer Head Inn’s jazz club, founded in 1953, is said to be the oldest continually running jazz venue in the country. Go there for a little night music and a place to rest your head. Rooms start at $90. 5 Main St., Delaware Water Gap, PA, 570-424-2000.



Picture Perfect Tips
from Crede Calhoun, Vision Quest Studios

Incorporate fence lines that lead into your image, or include buildings that create a focal point.

For greater depth, focus one-third up from the bottom of your image.

Want more of a snapshot? Shoot from a lower or higher perspective.

Include foreground elements to enhance the scene’s depth.

Remove the horizon line to make images more graphic.

Above all, avoid harsh light!

HIGHS FOR HIKERS


Annapolis Rock/
Black Rock Cliff Myersville, MD

Hike this popular Appalachian Trail route along the spine of South Mountain to a pair of stunning overlooks. Annapolis Rock (1,700 feet) juts from the mountain’s west flank, boasting views of forest, mountains, and Greenbrier Lake. Black Rock (1,800 feet) looks out on a lovely patchwork of farms and fields. South Mountain State Park, 301-791-4767.

Refuel: Slake your thirst with beer and fill your belly with burgers at Dan’s Restaurant & Taphouse. 3 S. Main St., Boonsboro, 301-432-5224.

Refuel: Book lovers will delight in a night at Inn BoonsBoro, where every room is named after a famous literary character. Rooms start at $255/night. 1 N. Main St., Boonsboro, 301-432-1188.

Cat Rock &
Bobs Hill Thurmont, MD

You may huff and puff getting there, but the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Frederick Valley are stupendous from these rocky spots atop Catoctin Mountain. Cat Rock (1,560 feet) and Bobs Hill (1,765 feet) lie within a nature preserve that harbors black bears and bobcats. Cunningham Falls State Park, 301-271-7574.

Refuel: Unwind over lamb chops and lobster tails at Dobbin House Tavern, Gettysburg’s oldest home (dated 1776). 89 Steinwehr Ave., Gettysburg, PA, 717-334-2100.

nod off: Take in the serene solitude at The Lodges at Gettysburg and continue communing with nature. 685 Camp Gettysburg Rd., Gettsyburg, PA, 717-642-2500.

Chimney Rock/
Wolf Rock Thurmont, MD

A rugged two-mile hike through Catoctin Mountain Park pays off at a pair of ancient, deeply creviced rock formations. Chimney Rock earns an A+ for its vistas; less scenic Wolf Rock is just fun to clamber on. Not recommended for tots or pets. Catoctin Mountain Park, 301-663-9388.

Refuel: Pan-steamed mussels and paella beckon at Isabella’s Taverna & Tapas Bar. 44 N. Market St., Frederick, 301-698-8922.

nod off: Best Western Historic Frederick is conveniently located within a few miles of the historic and vibrant downtown. Rooms start at $92.99/night. 420 Prospect Blvd., Frederick, 301-695-6200.

Old Rag Mountain Sperryville, VA

Notorious for its beauty and its difficulty, the four-mile hike/scramble up Shenandoah National Park’s Old Rag Mountain lures legions of fall hikers. Your challenge: climbing, crawling, and squeezing through miles of boulders to reach the 3,291-foot summit. Your reward: perhaps the best perch in all of the Blue Ridge. Shenandoah National Park, 540-999-3500.

Refuel: Artisanal sandwiches or more filling fare such as rib-eye steak are on offer at Artisan’s Grill. 2 East Main St., Luray, VA, 540-743-7030.

nod off: The Mimsyln Inn offers old-world décor and modern amenities. Rooms start at $135/night. 401 West Main St., Luray, VA, 800-296-5105.

CLOSE TO HOME

No need to go far to feel like you’ve escaped — these vistas are in our own backyard.

Shutterstock

High Knob Frederick, MD

For views of the Monocacy and Middletown valleys that just won’t quit, head for this 1,600-foot peak atop the Catoctin Mountains. Three native-stone overlooks offer a trio of perspectives. In addition to stunning valley vistas, spy nearby South Mountain’s forested flanks. Gambrill State Park, 301-271-7574.

Refuel: The fried chicken with buttermilk biscuits at Bryan Voltaggio’s Family Meal is legend. 880 N. East Street, Frederick, 301-378-2895.

Shutterstock

King and Queen Seat Jarrettsville, MD

A throne fit for tribal chiefs, this prow-shaped promontory towers over Deer Creek and the hills of Harford County. Once a ceremonial site for Native Americans, it also starred in Tuck Everlasting. If this climb doesn’t leave you breathless, the foliage will. Rocks State Park, 410-557-7994.

Refuel: Head to Jarrettsville Creamery & Deli for a quick lunch or house-made ice cream. 1747 Jarrettsville Rd., Jarrettsville, 410-692-5100.

Mark Van Dyke

Sugarloaf Mountain Dickerson, MD

Sugarloaf is the mountain for every man. And woman. And child. And dog. On fall weekends, they all arrive, but there are enough well-marked trails for everyone. For the best views, try the Summit or White Rocks overlooks. Stronghold Inc., 301-869-7846.

Refuel: The Zagat-rated The Tasting Room is highly hailed for new American fare and an extensive wine list. 101 N. Market St., Frederick, 240-379-7772.

Scott Betz

Washington Monument Middletown, MD

This tower furnishes fabulous views of the countryside, including Antietam National Battlefield. Hike along the Appalachian Trail to reach the tower, a memorial to George Washington erected by July 4th celebrants in 1827. Washington Monument State Park, 301-791-4767.

Refuel: For creative salads, The Main Cup is a great place to take a load off. 14 W. Main St., Middletown, 301-371-4433.

WORTH THE DRIVE

Getting out into the woods to make like Thoreau can lead to logging many miles, but we think these road trips are well worth it.

Spy Rock Montebello, VA4 hours

George Washington National Forest,
Glenwood-Pedlar Ranger District, 434-263-7015.

take a Hike: Amazing views of the Blue Ridge’s “Religious Range” (The Priest, The Friar, and The Cardinal) enshrine Spy Rock as a heavenly height. George Washington National Forest, Glenwood-Pedlar Ranger District, 434-263-7015.

REFUEL:Enjoy French-inspired Southern cuisine at the award-winning The Hotel Roanoke’s The Regency Room. 110 Shenandoah Ave. NW, Roanoke, VA, 540-985-5900.

NOD OFF:The Hotel Roanoke is an award-winning, beautifully renovated grande dame of a hotel overlooking downtown Roanoke. This is Southern hospitality at its finest.Room rates start at $139/night.

McAfee Knob Salem, VA5 hours

Jefferson National Forest, 540-265-5100.

take a Hike: Trail trekkers can’t help going full Ansel Adams atop this rock cantilevered over the southern Shenandoah. The panoramas make the 1,700-foot climb well worth it. Jefferson National Forest, 540-265-5100.

REFUEL: Mouth-watering martinis and well-cooked steaks are the name of the game at Frankie Rowland’s Steakhouse. 104 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke, VA, 540-527-2333.

NOD OFF: Walk in the woods, then enjoy your return to civilization at the Holiday Inn Salem-Roanoke. Rooms start at $99/night. 450 Litchell Rd., Salem, VA, 540-389-2424.

New River Gorge Bridge New River Gorge 6 hours

New River Gorge National River, 304-574-2115.

take a Hike: The highest, longest arch bridge when it opened, this span soars 876 feet above a canyon. View the bridge and gorge from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. New River Gorge National River, 304-574-2115.

REFUEL:Pies & Pints Craft Pizza & Beer has been featured on The Cooking Channel. (Go for the grape pizza.) 219 W. Maple Ave., Fayetteville, WV, 304-574-2200.

NOD OFF: Whether you take a dip in the pool or enjoy the fire pit or the exercise room, the options are all good at Courtyard by Marriott Beckley. Rooms start at $149/night. 124 Hylton Ln., Beckley, WV, 304-252-9800.

LEGENDARY HEIGHTS

Walt Stoneburner

Lover’s Leap, The Narrows Cumberland, MDCan be seen by car.

Legend has it that a Native American romance gone wrong ended on this ledge above the spectacular Cumberland Narrows. Some folks hike or climb the jutting rocks. You shouldn’t. Instead, park at The Fruit Bowl, a roadside market on Alternate U.S. 40, where you can safely view Lover’s Leap and the 1,000-foot-deep Narrows. Allegany County Department of Tourism, 301-777-5132.

Rufuel: Feast on steaks, burgers, flat breads, Maryland crabs, and more at LB’s Place inside the Rocky Gap Casino Resort. 12500 Pleasant Valley Rd., Flintstone, 301-784-8400.

Nod off: The resort is also a great place to pamper yourself after a day in the great outdoors. There’s a spa offering skin care and body treatments on site. Rooms start at $149/night.

Maryland Heights
Overlook Harpers Ferry, WVA little trek, but not too demanding.

Reaching the most breathtaking view of Harpers Ferry isn’t easy. But it’s oh-so worth the 90-minute hike. Atop the cliffs at Maryland Heights, the Civil War town unfolds below you, embraced by the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. Union soldiers enjoyed the same vista, as remnants of their fortifications can attest. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, 304-535-6029.

Rufuel: Dine on mouthwatering mains (slow-roasted beef over corn bread with pepper slaw) in the quaint 1820 stone house of Canal House Cafe. There’s also free WIFI, so you can download all those i-Phone photos of your hike. 1226 W. Washington St., Harpers Ferry, WV, 304-535-6029.

Nod off: At Ledge House Bed & Breakfast, it’s all about the sweeping views overlooking the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. Rooms start at $99/night. Ledge House Bed & Breakfast, 280 Henry Clay St., Harpers Ferry, WV, 304-582-2443.

Monocacy River
Aqueduct Dickerson, MDCan be seen comfortably via a walking path.

Once, Monocacy Aqueduct carried C&O Canal barges on its broad back. Waterless now, the historic structure (the longest of the canal’s 10 remaining aqueducts) ensures that towpath hikers and cyclists won’t get their feet wet crossing the river. Take time to linger. Admire the scenery and imagine an earlier era. C&O Canal National Historical Park, 301-739-4200.

Rufuel: Splurge on the tasting menu at Volt—Top Chef Bryan Voltaggio’s farm-to-fork fare, set inside an elegant 19th-century brownstone. 228 N. Market St., Frederick, 301-696-8658.

Nod off: When you’re in for the night, there’s nothing like modern amenities. The Hilton Garden Inn Frederick has them all: a fitness center, a pool, coin laundry, and cribs. 7226 Corporate Court, Frederick, 240-566-1500. Rooms start at $111.

Point Lookout
Overlook Flintstone, MDCan be seen by car.

This former Civil War lookout, stands guard over a gorgeous, curvy stretch of the Potomac River, and is 900 feet above sea level in Western Maryland. The curve was nicknamed “General Washington’s Horseshoe Bend” for an ex-landowner. Yes, that General Washington. Green Ridge State Forest, 301-478-3124.

Rufuel: Don’t miss the selection of authentic New York-style, authentic Italian food at Ristorante Ottaviani (say “yes” to the beef carpaccio and Caprese salad), 25 N. Centre St., Cumberland, 301-722-0052.

Nod off: Rocky Gap Casino Resort can cater to all of your dining, pampering, and entertainment needs. Rooms start at $149/night. 12500 Pleasant Valley Rd., Flintstone, 301-784-8400.

Turkey Point
Lighthouse North East, MDA little trek, but not too demanding.

Nature sculpted the perfect overlook on Elk Neck peninsula, whose bluffs rise 100 feet above the Elk and Northeast rivers. In 1833, man improved the view by plunking a 35-foot-tall lighthouse there. Hike to the bluffs and climb the lighthouse to behold the upper Chesapeake as the beacon keepers did. Elk Neck State Park, 410-287-5333.

Rufuel: When in Maryland, eat crab. After your hike, hike to Woody’s Crab House for hard-shells, crab au gratin, crab imperial, or crab and artichoke dip. 29. S. Main St., North East, MD, 410-287-3541.

Nod off: You can easily day trip north on I-95 to North East, but if you want to hike for more than a day, go for the no-frills room at Best Western North East Inn hotel. Rooms start at $109.99. 39 Elwoods Rd., North East, 410-287-5450.

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