Interstate 68

Interstate 68 is a relatively short but significant east–west corridor that traverses the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Morgantown, West Virginia, to Hancock, Maryland. Spanning approximately 113 miles, I-68 serves as an important regional route for travelers and truckers bypassing the congested Baltimore-Washington area while navigating the rugged terrain of the Alleghenies. It is also known as the National Freeway, a nod to its alignment along the historic National Road—America’s first federally funded highway.

The route begins at an interchange with I-79 in Morgantown, West Virginia, and travels eastward through key cities like Cumberland and Frostburg, Maryland, before terminating at I-70 in Hancock. It includes steep grades, scenic vistas, and a number of truck escape ramps, reflecting the mountainous terrain it traverses. In winter, the highway is prone to severe weather, particularly in Garrett County, Maryland, which often sees heavy snowfall and icy conditions.

I-68 plays a critical role in supporting tourism and local economies in western Maryland and northern West Virginia. It also serves as a vital alternative to I-70 and I-76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike), especially for drivers seeking a toll-free east-west route. Though it does not pass through any major metropolitan areas, its strategic value lies in regional connectivity and access to recreational areas like Deep Creek Lake and the Allegheny Highlands.