Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway | American Tour Association

THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

This byway brings to life the stories of the Underground Railroad, a secret network of roads, waterways, trails, and hiding places along which enslaved African-Americans were helped to freedom before the Civil War.

The experienceAll-American Road

Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway

Fallen leaves grace the river bank scene along the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway. — An Autumn-draped Tuckahoe Crossing
Public Domain. Photo by Kathleen Mackel · Photo credits

A dark, cloud-tainted sunset over the mysterious waters of the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge evokes a feeling of isolation similar to what someone trying to traverse the landscape at nightfall might feel. — A Foreboding Sunset over Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Public Domain. Photo Courtesy of Dorchester County Tourism · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.