You sadly won’t find gold along the following gold mine hike in Maryland, but you will find a whole lot of fascinating history and scenery. Read on to discover this little known trek through the woods that leads to abandoned gold mine ruins. Most people have no idea this place exists…
You may have visited Great Falls, which beautifully showcases the powerful Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia.
AllTrails / Rodney Gunning
Most people head to the area to see the roaring river rapids. But don’t miss out on the nearby Gold Mine Loop as well.
AllTrails / Frederick Robinson
Located on the Maryland side, this hike is 3.2 miles long and takes about an hour to complete.
AllTrails / Frederick Robinson
Along the way you’ll explore pretty paths surrounded by plenty of foliage…
AllTrails / Frederick Robinson
…and eventually end up at these little known gold mine ruins.
All Trails / Julia Vargas
Read up on the history of this site, which states a Civil War Union soldier found gold while stationed here. He later returned to this place, purchased land, and built the mines.
All Trails / Julia Vargas
The actual underground gold mine area is fenced off…
AllTrails / Richard Denton
…but you can step up to the fence and attempt to peer into the darkness. It’s terrifyingly fun, making for a hike like no other in the Old Line (or should we say Old MINE?) State.
AllTrails / Richard Denton
For more information about this historic hike, including precise location, visit AllTrails.com.
AllTrails / Rodney Gunning
AllTrails / Frederick Robinson
All Trails / Julia Vargas
AllTrails / Richard Denton
Find more hikes in Maryland that are packed with history by clicking here!
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