Maryland's earliest settlers landed on the Eastern Shore in the early 1600's. Maryland has battle scars from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Our Nation's earliest history began on her shores. Tour the Antietam National Battlefield. The best way to view the battlefield is to take the self-guided driving tour.
Most visitors drive the route, but walking and biking are encouraged.
Audiotape tours, which enhance the self-guided tour, may be purchased or rented from the bookstore. It is also believed that the biodiversity may be richer than anywhere else on the Atlantic seaboard. Belt Woods Natural Environmental Area is designated a 'National Natural Landmark'. In 1992, to illustrate what America looked like at the time of Columbus' landing, National Geographic photographed Belt Woods. Belt Woods harbors several National champion trees, many over 400 years old.