Cumberland to Summersville: Scenic Drive Guide

Begin in Cumberland, Maryland, the terminus of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, and head southwest on I-68 to Keysers Ridge, then US-219 South toward the Allegheny Highlands.

The route crosses the Eastern Continental Divide at 2,670 feet, meaning rainfall here eventually flows to the Gulf of Mexico, not the Atlantic.

About 105 miles of mostly two-lane highway, this drive delivers more elevation change per mile than any interstate in the region, with switchbacks and long grades that offer stunning vistas.

Typical driving time is 2 hours and 15 minutes without stops, but plan for at least half a day to appreciate the overlooks and small towns.

For those deciding if the journey is worth it, the answer lies in the unspoiled scenery and the chance to traverse a genuine mountain byway, a far cry from bland interstate travel.

A handy table below summarizes key route stats for quick reference.

The route's geology is a story of ancient oceans and mountain building. You'll cross the Allegheny Front, a dramatic escarpment that rises from the Cumberland Valley to the high plateau. Along US-219, roadcuts expose sandstone and shale layers that date back to the Mississippian period, 350 million years ago.

This region is part of the larger Appalachian mixed mesophytic forest, one of the most biodiverse temperate forests in the world. In fall, the foliage display is legendary, with peak color typically around mid-October. Summers are mild, with afternoon thunderstorms common.

• Deep Creek Lake, Maryland: 3,900-acre lake, perfect for a picnic.
• Blackwater Falls State Park, WV: 62-foot waterfall, must-see.
• Swallow Falls State Park, MD: old-growth hemlocks.
• Seneca Rocks, WV (detour): a massive quartzite outcrop popular with climbers.

The towns along the way preserve a rich Appalachian heritage. Oakland, Maryland, boasts the Garrett County Courthouse, a Romanesque Revival building from 1906. Thomas, West Virginia, is an artsy former mining town with a strong craft brewery scene. The local commerce thrives on outdoor tourism, with outfitters and lodges catering to hikers and anglers.

For a taste of local culture, visit the Mountain State Maple Festival in Pickens (held in late March) if your trip coincides. It celebrates West Virginia's maple syrup industry.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are not directly on the route, but the Chemistry of Fire documentary in Davis explores the region's coal history, a topic relevant to the area's heritage.

This mountain route demands attention: sharp curves, steep grades, and wildlife crossings (deer are common at dawn and dusk). Keep headlights on during the day for visibility. Use lower gears on descents to save brakes.

For breaks, several rest areas and pull-offs allow safe stopping. The Youghiogheny River Overlook near Friendsville is a prime spot. For a longer rest, the Blue Moon Brewpub in Thomas offers a family-friendly patio.

Fatigue management is crucial: the winding roads can be mentally draining. Stop every hour to stretch and hydrate. The 2-hour drive is manageable, but factored with stops, plan for a relaxing journey.

• Rest areas: Keysers Ridge, Potomac Highlands
• Scenic pull-offs: Youghiogheny Overlook, Canaan Valley overlook
• Kid-friendly: Blackwater Falls boardwalk is stroller-friendly.
• Pet-friendly: Many state parks allow leashed pets.

For families, the route is surprisingly accommodating. The all-you-can-eat cafeteria at the McHenry Holiday Inn (in Deep Creek area) is a hit with kids. The West Virginia Museum of Natural History in Elkins is an educational detour.

Pet owners will find several cabin rentals and inns that accept dogs. The Blackwater Falls Lodge even has pet-friendly rooms.

Hidden gems abound: the unmarked trail to the “Bridge to Nowhere” near Harman, a stone arch bridge built in the 1930s, is a local secret. Ask a shopkeeper in Thomas for directions.

Fuel up in Cumberland or Keysers Ridge, as gas stations become sparse after Oakland, with the next reliable options in Thomas or Davis. Prices tend to run 10-15 cents higher per gallon in these smaller towns. Plan to fill your tank before entering the more remote stretches to avoid range anxiety.

Road quality is generally good, but be prepared for occasional frost heaves and potholes in winter months. The highway department prioritizes snow removal on I-68, but US-219 can be snow-covered for days after a storm. Check weather conditions before departing.

There are no tolls on this entire route, making it an economical choice for a scenic drive.

• Distance: ~105 miles
• Driving time: 2h 15m without stops
• Roads: I-68, US-219, WV-32, US-19
• Fuel stops: Cumberland, Keysers Ridge, Thomas, Summersville

Cellular coverage is spotty between Oakland and Parsons, WV, so download offline maps and inform someone of your route. Carry a paper atlas as backup.

For more tips on planning a road trip with unique stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.