Washington Monument State Park

No, not that Washington Monument, and not this Washington Monument either. No, this is the first completed monument dedicated to our nation's first President, and it's on a mountain in Maryland.

Washington Monument State Park is located near Boonsboro, MD, on South Mountain. The monument was built in 1827 by the townspeople of Boonsboro. Unfortunately it fell into disrepair not long after. The Union Army used the mountain as a signaling station during the Civil War.
During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps rebuilt the monument to its present form. It was finally designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1972.


Getting there can be a little tricky, so I recommend you check your route on google maps prior to heading to the park. The parking lot is a short distance from the summit, and a short trail takes you to the monument. Along the trail are signs highlighting events in Washington's life. You can take the stairs inside the monument to the top of the tower and enjoy the stunning views both to the east and west. On a clear day looking to the west, you can see Antietam Battlefield.



The Appalachian Trail runs directly through the park, and you can easily include a short hike along the AT as part of your visit. Just follow the white blazes in either direction.



along the Appalachian Trail on South Mountain