So, you’re ready to pop the question. You have the ring, but no idea how to ask her. Let’s be honest here; yes, the ring is the most important part, but did you think it wouldn’t be a HUGE deal to figure out a fancy way of asking the girl of your dreams to marry you? We’re sorry to be the ones to break this to you, but where and how you propose DOES matter and you need to think of something special that she will remember forever.
The location doesn’t have to be over-the-top to be special. We talked to a photographer from F2 Photography in Greencastle to get a short list of popular places to propose. She said it perfectly, “It’s not always about the spectacular location, but more about the emotional connection.” You definitely want it to be special, but it doesn’t need to be a whole production, especially if your fiance-to-be isn’t the kind of girl that likes to be the center of attention in the middle of everything. Jennifer, of Jennifer Rotz Photography told us, “I have found that my couples get engaged in many unique locations that are unique to them, their relationship, and their story. I don’t think there is a one size fits all location for engagements, I believe that most of today’s couples try to incorporate the engagement to a special memory or location that holds value to them as a couple.” Maybe for her just a walk at Hagerstown City Park, or dinner at your favorite restaurant would be perfect.
If you have no clue where to propose, we can help with some ideas. It definitely needs to be special to both of you, so the place you first met, had your first date, or somewhere you go for an activity you both enjoy would be perfect! We’ve made up a list of some of the top places to propose to help you think of some good possibilities and maybe give you a new idea for the perfect place to pop the question.
Cunningham Falls State Park is located in the beautiful Catoctin Mountains, and is divided into two unique areas. The William Houck Area located three miles west of Thurmont on Route 77 has the lake, falls and camping area. The Manor Area off Route 15 three miles south of Thurmont has the Scales and Tales Aviary, camping area and the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace.
The Cunningham Falls State Park trail system varies in terrain from short, flat hikes to steep and rocky ascents that will challenge even the experienced hiker. Trail distances vary from .5 mile to 7.5 miles.
High Rock is located just off the Appalachian Trail in Northern Maryland on South Mountain. There is a paved road that leads from Pen-Mar Park to High Rock that is gated from dusk to 9 AM. High Rock has spectacular views on a clear day.
From Interstate 70 at exit 35 take MD 66 North to Cave Town. Turn right on MD 64 and continue north to MD 418 (Ringold Pike) turn right at this intersection. Immediately after crossing into Pennsylvania turn right on Harbaugh Church Rd. A short distance later turn right on Old Pen-Mar Rd. The Appalachian Trail will cross the road with limited parking just past the trail.
The only access to High Rock other than to drive is via the Appalachian Trail from the north or south. The hike from the south, although longer, is not as steep. The trail going either way is steep in spots but once on the ridge the walking is easy.
Renfrew Museum and Park is located at 1010 East Main Street in Waynesboro, PA. Renfrew is a restored farmstead with outbuildings, historic grounds, and miles of nature trails to explore. Renfrew is open dawn to dusk year-round and is free of charge.
Green Grove Gardens, 1032 Buchanan Trail East in Greencastle, started as a working dairy farm owned by the Martin family. Over the years, the Martins revamped the property with landscaped gardens and water features. The barn was renovated to become an event all, and the original hardwood floors were kept, giving an antique warmth to the building. A deck was added offering views of the nearby Tuscarora Mountains, and much of the 40 acres surrounding the barn were landscaped to become expansive gardens accented with fountains, a pergola, and paved walkways. Green Grove Gardens is also an excellent wedding venue.
Tayamentasachta, 300-408 Leitersburg Road, Greencastle, is a 45-acre environmental center with amenities that include a 19th century farmhouse and barn, natural spring, spring house, log cabin, longhouse, pavilion, and orchard. Locals in the area refer to Tayamentasachta as the School Farm. Walking trails, woodlots, fields, and gardens make it possible for people in and around the community to actively learn integrative concepts between nature and people during a unique and unforgettable learning experience. This natural setting is a beautiful location for engagement pictures.
Martins Mill Bridge, 3505 East Weaver Road, Greencastle, is a covered bridge that is a total of 205 feet in length. In 1973 the bridge was rehabilitated after being carried downstream by flood waters during Hurricane Agnes. Steel bracing was added later to stabilize the bridge. In spite of being altered over the years due to destruction and restoration the bridge contains approximately two-thirds of its original timbers. It is one of two covered bridges in Franklin County. The grounds are open from 8:00 AM until sunset and can be accessed by walking.
The Hagerstown City Park is located in the center of Hagerstown, Maryland at 501 Virginia Avenue, Hagerstown. The park is an historic location and contains a lake in the center. It is home to the Washington County Museum of Fine Art that is directly on the lakefront as well as the Hager House and Museum. The park is in a very industrial area of the city and has a number of paths, recreation areas, and trails. City Park is home to swans and other waterfowl as well as fish.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, 485 Fillmore St. Harpers Ferry, WV, is considered one of the best walking parks in America. The views are gorgeous, the history fascinating, the restored town a work of historical art. The variety of trails paired with history and the scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Potomac and Shenandoah river valleys adds up to a unique hiking experience. Harpers Ferry National Historic Park encircles almost 4,000 acres in West Virginia, Maryland and Virginia, and several units of the national park system intersect here. As the mid-point of the 2,178-mile Appalachian Trail, Harpers Ferry is home to the headquarters for the Appalachian Trail. Visitors can also walk along the 184.5-mile-long towpath of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park by crossing the footbridge over the Potomac River. Harpers Ferry has about 20 miles of hiking trails. The trails vary from easy, riverside strolls to four-mile hikes across Civil War battlefields to eight-mile adventures to the tops of mountains.
6235 Aughwick Road
Fort Loudon, PA 17224
(717) 485- 3948
Cowans Gap State Park 1085-acre park in the beautiful Allens Valley of Fulton County. Prime attractions are a 42-acre lake, large campground, rustic cabins and many hiking trails. Trails vary in difficulty from flat to very steep. State forest land surrounds the park, providing more land for recreation and natural beauty in all seasons.
The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset. However, day use areas close at dusk. The beach, overnight areas, and other areas are open specific seasons and hours.
The most important thing to remember is, make the moment special for both of you! And get the ring from us, of course. If you would like a little more inspiration, check out our “Will You Marry Me?” page on our website. Good Luck and Best Wishes!