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Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail

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Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail spans 560 miles across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. It commemorates the events of the War of 1812, particularly the defense of Fort McHenry, which inspired the national anthem. Visitors come to reflect on this pivotal moment in American history and to explore the landscapes that played a role in the conflict.

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The trail offers various activities, including hiking, biking, and boating. The main visitor center is located at Fort McHenry National Monument in South Baltimore, where travelers can learn more about the war and its significance. The experience is both educational and contemplative, inviting visitors to connect with the past.

In pictures

Image of a large historic house with green lawn in foreground.
Image of a large historic house with green lawn in foreground.

Things to do

Paddle the Sassafras River Water Trail

The Sassafras River Water Trail is a 22 mile-long route located in the Upper region of the Chesapeake Bay. The...

Multi-Park Loop
Winter/Spring

Park your car and stretch your legs! Visit four different National Parks in Washington, DC and begin logging m...

Paddle the Baltimore Blueway
1-6 Hours

Choose from 30 miles of trails in the Inner Harbor, Outer Harbor, Middle Branch, and Patapsco River. Imagine y...

Watch an Artillery Demonstration at Fort Washington Park
15-90 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Ever wonder how Civil War cannons were fired? Visit the park the first Sunday of every month from May to Novem...

Bicycle between Point Lookout and Leonardtown, MD
4-10 Hours · Spring/Summer

Bicycling on a section of the Southern Maryland PHT On-Road Bicycling Route between Point Lookout and Leondard...

Explore by bicycle from Westmoreland State Park
1 Day · Spring/Summer

With Westmoreland State Park as a base, ride a loop connected with the Northern Neck Heritage Trail to explore...

Paddle the Potomac River

Beginning at Jennings Randolph Lake to the mouth of the Potomac, you may choose to paddle the 355 miles to the...

Paddle the Patuxent River Water Trail

The Patuxent River Water Trail offers visitors the opportunity to paddle the river, camp along its banks and v...

Paddle the Anacostia Water Trail
1-6 Hours

Discover the natural abundance of the Anacostia River as it threads through the heart of Washington, DC. Watch...

Go Birding at Patuxent River Park
Winter/Spring

A short drive from Washington DC and Baltimore, Patuxent River Park boasts more than 7,000 acres of parkland a...

Audio Tour of a Patuxent Town
Winter/Spring

Discover thousands of years of archeology at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum. Over 65 archeological sites te...

Star-Spangled Banner Trail Passport Stamps

Several Trail partner locations are part of the Passport To Your National Parks® program. When you travel the...

Practical

At a glance

Opened
2010
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Accessibility
wheelchair accessible
Address
2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21230
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
410.962.4290
Price
Free
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect queues during weekends and holidays.
Tickets are not required for the trail itself, but some sites may charge.
Plan to visit Fort McHenry between Wednesday and Sunday, from 9 AM to 4:45 PM.
Dress for outdoor activities and check the weather before heading out.

Photo: NPS/ Tim Ervin