Attention, explorers! Did you know that there’s a river gorge hiding in Maryland? With enchanting views, this place looks like it’s straight out of a storybook.Check out the following spot that belongs on any hiker’s bucket list. Read on for the details and bring hiking boots with good tread — you’re going to need them. Let’s go!

Mather Gorge is located along the Potomac River, with Virginia on one side and Maryland on the other.

Google Maps

Many hikers head to this area to explore Section A of Maryland’s Billy Goat Trail. Or you can also take in the views from the Virginia Side.

Flickr / Andrew Benson

The trails around the Mather Gorge area are shorter (about less than two miles in distance), but strenuous.

Flickr / Geoff Livingston

Not only is the gorge deep and the slope steep…

Flickr / click-see

…but the below rapids can also be fast and dangerous. Use caution when walking along the gorge, making sure you have hiking shoes with good grip.

Flickr / Geoff Livingston

The drive to this area and the effort you put in is worth it though, because you’ll get to enjoy sights like this. This enchanting paradise isn’t always green, however…

Flickr / Geoff Livingston

…because you can also visit during autumn when the foliage turns shades of orange, red, and yellow. Simply gorge-ous!

Wikimedia Commons / User:Cyde

To get started on your journey, visit the Great Falls Visitor Center in Potomac, Maryland. Here you can learn about the area, enjoy the local tavern, take a canal ride, and of course… hike to Billy Goat Trail and Mather Gorge.

Flickr / ehpien

Address: 11710 MacArthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854

Google Maps

Flickr / Andrew Benson

Flickr / Geoff Livingston

Flickr / click-see

Wikimedia Commons / User:Cyde

Flickr / ehpien

For more information about this area, visit the official website.

Find more awe-worthy hiking spots in the Old Line State by clicking here. Happy adventuring!

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