Backbone Mountain, in the far western panhandle of Maryland's Garrett County, is the state's highest peak at 3,360 feet (1,024 m) above sea level. The summit, known as Hoye Crest, draws highpointers — hikers pursuing the goal of reaching the highest point in every U.S. state — as well as visitors seeking the remote character of Maryland's Allegheny Highlands. The trailhead is located off MD-135 near the town of Bloomington, approximately four hours from Baltimore and close to the West Virginia border.
The trail covers approximately 3 miles round-trip, beginning at a primitive roadside trailhead with space for a small number of vehicles. No facilities exist at the trailhead — no restrooms, no water, and no reliable signage beyond basic trail markings on trees. All supplies must be carried from the trailhead. The ascent follows a narrow footpath through dense second-growth Allegheny hardwood and spruce forest on the steep eastern face of Backbone Mountain, with gradient exceeding 15% in steeper sections. The surface is a mix of compacted leaf litter, exposed roots, and rock.
Total elevation gain from the trailhead is approximately 600 feet (183 m). The forested summit of Hoye Crest is distinguished by a USGS benchmark marker and a summit register maintained by the state highpointing community. A short side scramble from the summit leads to an outcropping with partial views west toward the West Virginia highlands. The descent retraces the ascent route. Weather at 3,360 feet changes rapidly; temperatures at the summit are typically 10–15°F cooler than surrounding valley readings, and afternoon thunderstorms develop frequently in summer. The extreme remoteness of the location — no services within miles of the trailhead — demands full self-sufficiency from every visiting party.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Oakland (Garrett County)
- Best season
- May-October; summit views require clear days; winter icy without gear
What to bring
- Hiking boots
- Trekking poles
- Water
- Layers (summit can be 10-15°F cooler)
- Trail map
Location
Hoye Crest Trailhead, Garrett County, MD (off MD-135 near Oakland)
39.2378, -79.5147 View on map
Highlights
- Hoye Crest — Maryland's state high point at 3,360 feet above sea level with summit register
- USGS benchmark marker at the summit — a classic highpointing destination
- Dense Allegheny hardwood and spruce forest characteristic of far-western Maryland's highlands
- Remote, uncrowded trail near the West Virginia border in Garrett County
- Partial western views toward West Virginia's highlands from a rocky summit outcropping
Tips for visiting
- Download offline GPS maps before leaving — cell coverage is absent throughout the approach and trail
- Carry all water and food from the trailhead; no services or facilities exist within miles of the parking area
- Dress in layers — the summit averages 10–15°F cooler than surrounding valley temperatures
- Plan to reach the summit before noon to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in summer
- Trekking poles assist significantly on the steep, rooted terrain on both ascent and descent
When to visit
Late May through September offers the most reliable weather window for Backbone Mountain; June and September provide the longest clear days and lowest storm frequency. Clear weather is essential for any summit views — morning starts are recommended to descend before afternoon thunderstorms develop.
Accessibility
The trail is a narrow, steep footpath with exposed roots and rocky terrain from trailhead to summit. No sections are wheelchair or stroller accessible. The remote location with no facilities and limited emergency access makes this trail unsuitable for visitors with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the trailhead for Backbone Mountain?
The trailhead is located off MD-135 near Bloomington in Garrett County, at approximately 39.2378°N, 79.5147°W. A GPS route or downloaded offline map is strongly advised given the remote and unsigned approach.
Is there parking at the trailhead?
Parking is primitive roadside space for a small number of vehicles. No paved lot, restrooms, water, or other facilities exist at the trailhead.
How difficult is the hike to Hoye Crest?
The round-trip is 3 miles with 600 feet of elevation gain on steep, rooted terrain. The trail itself is moderate, but the remote location and complete absence of services demands full self-sufficiency from all visiting parties.
What is at the summit?
The forested summit has a USGS benchmark, a wooden summit marker, and a trail register. A short scramble to an adjacent outcropping offers partial views west toward West Virginia.
What is the best time of year to hike Backbone Mountain?
Late May through September offers the most reliable conditions. Winter snow and ice make the trail hazardous without traction devices; summer afternoons carry elevated thunderstorm risk.