How To Get To High Rock Overlook in Maryland

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If you’re looking for a local place to hang out, look out or hike a wee bit in nature High Rock Overlook may be the place for you. I always heard of High Rock in high school, but I just assumed it had a drug connotation and wasn’t an actual overlook - and then I saw some pictures and had to go! Doesn’t this place look amazing? I thought so too! Here are some quick tips on how to get to High Rock Overlook and what to expect when you get there.

Where Is It?

High Rock Overlook is an hour and a half drive Northwest from Baltimore. It’s located in Smithsburg, Maryland, which is just shy of the Maryland/Pennsylvania line.

How To Find It?

Getting to High Rock is probably the easiest part! Simply add “High Rock, Smithsburg, MD 21783” to your favorite GPS app and you’ll be good to go!

Is There Parking?

Yes, there is a small makeshift lot and along the road parking.

Are There Bathrooms?

Sometimes. I have been there when there was a port-a-potty, once when it was not and once when it was locked with a padlock. I would not put faith in there always being a restroom available. There is a gas station just down the road with a restroom, however.

Is There Shopping, Food or Novelty Museums?

There are picnic tables only.

How Far Is The Walk/Hike To The Destination?

100ft. The overlook is directly alongside the road. Depending on how far away you park will determine how far it is to the overlook. There are a variety of small looping trails that go under, over and around rock formations as well as a few hiking trails in the opposite direction of the overlook that vary in length.

Is This Handicap Accessible?

There are a few rock steps and the base of the overlook that must be used to see the view fully. There are no ramps, railings or other means of walking assistance.

Is This A Family-Friendly Destination?

This name does get its name and graffiti from teenagers over the years getting high and painting it at night, however, that is not the case during the day. There will always be troublesome kids wherever you go, however here they tend to come out late at night and the ones out during the day keep to themselves. I have frequently seen families enjoying the days outdoors here, however, this is a sheer mountain drop off with no railings and kids should always be supervised!

How Did This Place Come To Be?

This overlook used to be graffiti-free and part of a double observatory deck to a local resort that spanned all the way down to Pen Mar Park. The original steps remain from the late 1800’s structure but that is it.