Pen Mar is a region situated at an elevation of 1400 feet on the Mason-Dixon Line, recognized for its natural features and scenic vistas. The area encompasses parts of South Mountain and the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering varied terrain suitable for outdoor activities. Its landscape includes woodlands, rolling hills, and elevated overlooks that provide expansive views of the surrounding valleys and foothills. This geographical composition supports several sports like hiking and road cycling.
Theβ¦
20
Routes
4.9
(9)
Average rating
94
People visited

5.0
(2)
15
hikers
8.43km
02:33
270m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
9
hikers
8.03km
02:21
160m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

2.96km
01:04
270m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1
hikers
1.39km
00:25
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
riders
31.7km
01:36
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

2
riders
91.0km
04:36
1,340m
1,340m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

3
riders
80.6km
04:13
1,170m
1,170m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

2
riders
91.6km
04:26
1,040m
1,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Pen Mar offers opportunities for hiking and road cycling. The region features varied terrain, including woodlands, rolling hills, and elevated overlooks. More than 200 visitors have shared experiences, with routes averaging 4.94 out of 5 stars.
Pen Mar Park serves as the northern starting point for the Maryland section of the Appalachian Trail. Nearby, the Copper Run Trail in Michaux State Forest and Catoctin Mountain Park offer additional hiking options. Detailed information is available in guides like Hiking around Pen Mar.
The broader Washington County area, including Pen Mar, offers diverse landscapes for road cycling. Converted rail trails are also available for scenic rides. Cyclists can find suitable options in the Road Cycling Routes around Pen Mar guide.
Yes, Pen Mar offers easy hiking options suitable for various skill levels. Specific routes can be found in the Easy hikes around Pen Mar guide. These trails provide access to the region's natural beauty without extreme difficulty.
Pen Mar Park itself offers scenic overlooks. High Rock Overlook provides extensive views of the surrounding foothills. Other nearby vantage points include Thurmont Vista, offering views across the Frederick Valley, and Blue Ridge Summit Vista, which boasts panoramas of the Harbaugh Valley and southern Pennsylvania mountains.
Pen Mar Park was originally developed as an amusement park and resort by the Western Maryland Railway in 1877. After the original attractions were dismantled, the park was re-opened as a county park in 1977. Reconstructed features like the scenic lookout and picnic shelter are on their original sites.
Komoot offers several guides for the Pen Mar region. These include Hiking around Pen Mar, Easy hikes around Pen Mar, and Road Cycling Routes around Pen Mar. These guides provide detailed information for planning outdoor activities.
The Pen Mar region has been visited by more than 200 komoot users. Routes in the area have an average rating of 4.94 out of 5 stars. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among outdoor enthusiasts.
Specific regulations regarding dogs vary by park and trail. Visitors should check the rules for individual locations like Pen Mar Park, Michaux State Forest, or Catoctin Mountain Park before bringing pets. Leash laws typically apply where dogs are permitted.
For park information and pavilion reservations, contact the Washington County Parks & Recreation Department. The phone number is 240-313-2700. Additional details are available on the official website.
The official website for Pen Mar Park is https://www.washco-md.net/parks-facilities/county-park/parks-pen-mar/. This site provides information on park facilities, hours, and any specific regulations.

