Entry No. 46 — the Washington, D.C. file — filed under: ruins

Maryland Gold Mine National Historic Landmark

Discovered during the Civil War by a Union soldier, the Maryland Mine was the largest of several gold mining operations in the area, active from 1867 until 1939. Today, the site contains the fenced-off ruins of a blacksmith shop, the concrete foundation of a 25,000-gallon water tank, and sealed mine shafts. These historic remnants are slowly being reclaimed by the surrounding Piedmont forest within the C&O Canal National Historical Park.

The move: Hike the scenic three-mile Gold Mine Loop trail starting from the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center, stopping to read the historical wayside exhibits and photograph the fenced-off ruins of the old blacksmith shop.

📍 Before you go The ruins and sealed mine shafts are located within the C&O Canal National Historical Park, but are strictly fenced off by the National Park Service for safety and preservation; they can only be viewed from the designated trail.

• 📍 Potomac
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: 11400-11798 Macarthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854, USA

Hours: Added 2026-07-20 — confirm current access before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: Atlas Obscura · nps.gov · canaltrust.org

last checked: 2026-07-20