The MSA is roughly bordered to the east by South Mountain, to the west by Sideling Hill, to the north by the Mason–Dixon line, and to the south by Northern Virginia. Elevations run from about above sea level in low-lying valleys to approximately above sea level at Sideling Hill. The Potomac River runs from west to east through the heart of the metro area with tributaries including Sideling Hill Creek, Conococheague Creek, and Antietam Creek. Terrain in the region is very well-suited and used for dairy farming, cornfields, and fruit orchards. Some undeveloped deciduous forestry also exists, especially in the mountainous portions of the area. However, much of the region's land is becoming increasingly threatened by urban sprawl.
