Have you been feeling worn down lately? We might have at least a partial solution for you:

There's a sweet sort of nourishment for a weary soul in standing on a high mountain peak, gazing out on miles of horizon.
Sarah C/Tripadvisor
It often gives some much-needed perspective and some space to breathe and think. Maybe that's one reason that attention is given to the highest point in every state, which in West Virginia's case, is the always-beautiful Spruce Knob (pictured above).
But there's another state high point not far from ours, and it is accessed by a trail that starts right here on the West Virginia side of the Maryland border.
Skye Marthaler/Google Maps
The trail is called Backbone Mountain Trail, and the Maryland summit is called Hoye-Crest.
If you've ever traveled down U.S. Route 219, you've probably seen signs for Maryland's High Point not far south of the community of Silver Lake, West Virginia.
Jon Dawson/Flickr
You can pull off and park right along 219 at the Backbone Mountain Trailhead.

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From there, expect a short mile hike up through the woods. You'll cross into Maryland along the well-marked trail and continue the climb to the summit...
Jon Dawson/Flickr
...where you can sit and enjoy your accomplishment.
Jon Dawson/Flickr
And while Hoye-Crest doesn't boast quite as much elevation as Spruce Knob does, the views are still well worth the journey to this summit.
Mark Basniak/Google Maps
So next time you are heading through West Virginia on the Seneca Trail, stop for a climb on up to Maryland's highest point so you can soak in another view that extends for miles.
Chris Gerber/Google Maps
Your soul will thank you.

Google Maps can provide directions to the Backbone Mountain Trailhead here. For several other interesting stops along U.S. Route 219, check here.

Have you hiked to Hoye-Crest before? What other state high points have you visited? For more information on West Virginia’s, see this article.

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Hoye-Crest, 8, Red House, MD 21550, USA