When it comes to fall, Maryland has no shortage of scenic spots to admire changing leaves, but one county is getting national attention for its autumn scenery. Allegany County, Maryland, was recently named the No. 2 Best Place to Visit for Fall in USA TODAY 10Best’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.

Tucked into the Appalachian Mountains of Western Maryland, Allegany County, known as the Mountain Side of Maryland, has now earned a spot on USA TODAY 10Best’s Fall list for four consecutive years. With mountain views, scenic trails, winding roads, historic communities and plenty of ways to experience the changing leaves, the county has become a standout autumn destination.

So, what makes fall in Allegany County so special?

For starters, the scenery is hard to beat. More than 70,000 acres of public land and more than 200 miles of developed trails provide plenty of ways to experience the changing landscape. Visitors can hike through the mountains, bike along the Great Allegheny Passage or C&O Canal Towpath or take a scenic drive through the region’s tree-covered roads.

And there’s more than one way to take in the foliage. The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers rides through the Allegheny Mountains, giving passengers a chance to enjoy the fall landscape from the rails. Another unique experience comes from Tracks and Yaks, a local outdoor adventure company offering railbike excursions along a former railroad corridor between Cumberland and Frostburg – another memorable way to see the season unfold.

Fall is also a great time to explore Allegany County’s historic communities. Cumberland and Frostburg combine mountain scenery with historic downtowns, local restaurants, shops, arts, and culture. The county’s Appalachian heritage also comes alive through seasonal festivals and events throughout the fall.

With its combination of mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, historic towns, and quintessential autumn experiences, it’s easy to see why Allegany County continues to attract attention from travelers beyond Maryland.

So, if you’re looking for a fall getaway without leaving the Old Line State, the Mountain Side of Maryland might be worth putting on your autumn itinerary.

If you would like your county featured in Fun Facts, please get in touch with Abbey Duncan at aduncan@mdcounties.org