Pine Knob Shelter

The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) in Maryland covers ~40 miles from the Potomac River at Harpers Ferry on the southern end to the Mason-Dixon Line at the Pennsylvania border. It’s a relatively short but scenic, well-maintained, and historically rich section—perfect for weekend hikes or as part of longer treks.  This section is well known for the 40 Mile Challenge on the A.T. in Maryland which is also known as the Maryland Challenge.  It is a well-known endurance hike where backpackers aim to hike the entire 40-mile stretch of the A.T. through Maryland in a single day.  

This hike to the Pine Knob Shelter is a much less arduous venture to a traditional Appalachian Trail shelter near Boonsboro, Maryland.  The shelter was built in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and it is a fine example of the classic Adirondack-style lean‑to favored on the A.T.  The lean-to is on the smaller scale for A.T. shelters and accommodates about 5-8 hikers, with a nearby privy and piped spring.  Pine Knob Shelter is close to U.S. 40 and Interstate 70 so expect a lot of traffic noise during the visit and don’t miss the hike to the bridge over I-70 which is just south on the A.T. from U.S. 40.