Motorcycle riding in the back roads of Maryland can be quite scenic and satisfying for riders of all ages. Depending on the weather there are 6-8 months that roads are generally ice-free.  Below we share highlights of the 3 most popular and scenic rides in the state of Maryland.  Enjoy the ride.

You can divide Maryland into five regions:
• The Chesapeake’s Eastern shores
• Western Maryland
• Southern Maryland
• Central Maryland
• The Capital Region

You will find that the eastern shores area has beaches, water, serenity, and seafood, though it is mostly flat and is actually home to a multitude of farms.  Western Maryland features the highest mountain in the state, as well as stunning scenery, which includes the Appalachian Mountains and beautiful lakes. Southern Maryland offers historical sites, as well as some seriously pristine nature preserves. Central Maryland offers access to the Chesapeake Bay, but it’s hilly, and also provides access to Annapolis and Baltimore. The Capital region, of course, is the nation’s capital and provides culture and history.

Catoctin Mountain & Frederick County, 64 miles
Expect to see stunning scenery, stretching through the woodlands. Carroll County is home to one of the prettiest farm counties that Maryland has to offer. Thurmont is located near Camp David, as well as Catoctin Mountain Park. CMP brags plenty of great fishing, as well as trails aplenty. There are plenty of great country restaurants in Thurmont, and there are several fruit stands on the stunning stretch of road on Route 550. 
Take the 500 NW From Libertytown up to Sabillasville. Stay on the 550 and merge with the 491 South. Follow the 491 SW to Smithsburg, and then left on R77, heading southeast. You’ll head through Thurmont and Detour, and eventually end up on R75 as you head back to Libertytown.
 

Charles County Loop, Along the Potomac River, 56 miles

You can enjoy the western area of Charles County on this route, the perfect rural ride. There are excellent back roads, offering clear views of the Potomac. This isn’t for beginners, though, as there are plenty of twists and turns to keep things interesting. Because it’s rural, the road surfaces are often rough.

Check out America’s oldest Catholic Parish, St Ignatius Church, which was erected way back in 1641. This route will also take you through Smallwood State Park, and Chapel Point State Park- so there is plenty of scenery and history to enjoy. Though, gas stations are rare once you get going, so make sure you’re rolling with a full tank.

Take the 301N heading to Chapel Point Road and turn left, heading NW toward Tauras Lane. Keep your eyes peeling for Causeway Rd, and then the MD-6W. You’ll be taking the MD-425S to the MD-224N, heading SW and staying the course till you come to the MD-225 EW.
 

Maryland Panhandle History Run, 140 miles

This ride is all about the scenery, the history, and great roads for riding. The Panhandle run will take you across America’s first federal road, built in the 1800’s (Old National Road), and you’ll also come across a toll gate, one of the few that remains, that was built to help maintain the road’s upkeep. Early settlers used this road as their starting point, as they headed for destinations like Colorado, Santa Fe, Oregon, and San Francisco. 

The majority of the route is near valleys, rivers, and creeks. The roads are great quality, providing climbs, twists, and turns, and there usually isn’t too much traffic to deal with.

There are a variety of routes that you can start your ride from, but take a map and carefully plot your route before you head out (or your smart phone). Consider started in Frederick and heading east on 40A.
 

Maryland Helmet Laws

The Maryland Department of Transportation through its Motor Vehicle Administration has established a comprehensive set of laws and requirements regarding protective riding gear including helmet requirements. It’s always a good idea to review the specific riding laws and requirements before planning a motorcycle trip into Maryland. 

See: http://www.mva.maryland.gov/safety/motorcycle/protective-gear.htm
For consumer review and recommendations on the proper type and brand of helmet you should use see the latest review on full-face and modular helmets.