Journey Through Hallowed Ground Byway
a day / 201 miles / 6 hours 41 minutes
The 180-mile corridor of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Byway through Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia is "Where America Happened." It is said that this corridor holds more historic sites than any other in the US.
Day 1
9:00 - 151.0 miles / 5 hours 2 minutes - 14:02
Point of Rocks is a historic community along the Potomac River where both canal and railroad vied for proximity to the river as they were constructed along and through huge rock formations.
The nearby C&O Canal National Historic Park preserves the remains of the historic C&O Canal as well as valuable open spaces along the Potomac River. The 185-mile-long towpath is open to hikers and cyclists year-round, while the Point of Rocks boasts a historic, beautifully restored railroad station.14:02 - 13.1 miles / 26 minutes - 14:28
National Museum of Civil War Medicine
The National Museum of Civil War Medicine presents one of Frederick’s key roles in the conflict: a major hospital center for the North and South. Bringing this history to life, the museum houses examples of medical equipment, tools, prostheses, uniforms, and other related artifacts as well as a renowned library. Events, tours, and educational opportunities are also available at the museum.
Frederick is a fitting home for the museum because this area served as a hospital center throughout the war with all churches, public facilities, and many private homes utilized for the care of the wounded and dying of both armies. The Federal Army established US General Hospital #1 here in Frederick. Everything began with the nearby battles of South Mountain and Antietam in September of 1862 and continued with the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, as well as the Battle of Monocacy just south of Frederick City in July 1864.15:13 - 11.3 miles / 22 minutes - 15:35
The Cozy Inn is a favorite with local residents and visitors, particularly the news crews who cover the President when he is at Camp David. A wide variety of country food is available both from the menu and from the popular buffet. Within the inn is a small museum devoted to the history and culture of the presidential retreat, Camp David.
16:35 - 17.8 miles / 35 minutes - 17:11
Eisenhower National Historic Site
This site is the home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, which he and his wife purchased in 1950. It served as his weekend retreat and meeting location for world leaders. Tours include interpretation of the 1950s' Secret Service operations and Eisenhower’s military leadership in World War II. Adjacent to the Gettysburg Battlefield, it also has a beautiful view of South Mountain.
19:11 - 7.3 miles / 14 minutes - 19:26