Highways are boring. They hurry you past the places that matter - the small towns, the back roads, the landscapes that tell you where you are. Scenic byways do the opposite. They invite you to slow down, open the windows, and let the road shape the experience.
Frederick County is one of the few places in Maryland where multiple designated scenic byways intersect. Five of the state’s 18 Maryland Scenic Byways wind through this corner of Maryland, following historic transportation corridors, river valleys, mountain passes, and working farmland.
Download the Frederick County
Road Trip Guide
Looking for inspiration you can take with you?
Download the Roads That Tell a Story road trip guide for Frederick County. Inside, you’ll find scenic byway highlights, suggested stops, outdoor adventures, historic sites, dining recommendations, and trip-planning ideas to help you make the most of your drive.
It’s the perfect companion for planning ahead - or letting the road decide where you go next.
There’s no right way to travel a scenic byway - and that’s the point. Start with a theme. History. Outdoor adventure. Food and drink. Family-friendly stops. Follow one byway from end to end, or combine sections of several to create a loop.
Distances are short, but the experiences are rich. You can cover a lot of ground without ever feeling rushed. Pull over often. Take the road that looks interesting. The best moments usually aren’t planned.
The Frederick
Field Guide
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