Potomac Heritage Trail Permit: Route
Potomac Heritage Trail is in Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and the agency does not require a permit for it. The route covers 900 miles.
This guide covers the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail permit.
Free for most components; Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail shelters charge a nightly fee.
Permit Cost
varies by component; the full network is not typically thru-hiked end to end in one trip
Duration
900 miles
Distance
moderate
Difficulty
About Potomac Heritage Trail
A 900-mile network of connected trails linking the Potomac River's mouth in Maryland and Virginia to the Allegheny Highlands in Pennsylvania, managed by the National Park Service in partnership with the trails that make it up. It is not typically hiked end to end in one trip; permits and fees vary by component trail.
The Potomac Heritage Trail
- Distance
- 900 miles
- Trip length
- varies by component; the full network is not typically thru-hiked end to end in one trip
- Difficulty
- moderate
Entry points: Mount Vernon, Virginia, Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania, Seward, Pennsylvania
District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia. Nearest town: Washington, DC (Georgetown) is the network's hub
Points along the route
- Point Lookout, Maryland (Southern Terminus)
- Smith Point, Virginia (Southern Terminus, Northern Neck)
- Georgetown, Washington, DC67 ft
- Cumberland, Maryland624 ft
- Mount Vernon, Virginia79 ft
- Theodore Roosevelt Island, Virginia
- Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania1,217 ft
- Seward, Pennsylvania1,139 ft
- Great Allegheny Passage (Cumberland to Pittsburgh corridor)
- Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail
- Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail, Virginia
Potomac Heritage Trail permit detailsandAll Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail permits
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This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Potomac Heritage Trail?
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Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
How long is the Potomac Heritage Trail route?
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The route is 900 miles.
How difficult is the Potomac Heritage Trail route?
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This is a moderate route, requires good fitness and some outdoor experience.
Where does the Potomac Heritage Trail route start?
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The permit covers 3 entry points: Mount Vernon, Virginia, Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania, Seward, Pennsylvania.
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