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Hiking Trails Page

Last updated May 29, 2008

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About | Carpool Meeting | Cadillac Trails | Allegheny | Anacostia | Appalachian Trail | Bear Run | Black Hill | Blackwater | Bull Run Mountain | Calvert Cliffs | Canaan Valley | Capital Crescent | Catoctin Mountain | C&O | Cunningham Falls | Dolly Sods | Elk Neck | Flag Ponds | Gambrill | George Washington | Glendening | Great Falls | Greenbrier | Gunpowder Falls | Gwynns | Harpers Ferry | Henson Creek | Jug Bay Wetlands | Kain | Mason-Dixon | Meadow Mountain | Merkle | Mount Vernon | New Germany | North Central Railroad | Ohiopyle | Old Rag | Oregon | Patapsco Valley | Patuxent Research Refuge | Patuxent River | Poplar Lick | Potomac Heritage | Potomac-Garrett | Robert E. Lee | Rocks | Rocky Gap | Savage | Scott's Run | Seneca Rocks | Shenandoah | Sligo Creek | Soldiers Delight | Sugarloaf | Susquehanna | Tuckahoe | York County Heritage

 
The image above is me backpacking at Laurel Forks Wilderness River Trail in Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia, July 29, 2005.

Carpool Meeting Points

Below I've listed a few places where hiking clubs commonly meet to carpool to other sites.

Bagel Bin in Ellicott City
The Howard County Sierra Club commonly meets at the Bagel Bin in the Enchanted Forest Commercial Center on the north side of Baltimore National Pike (route 40) just east of Bethany Lane and west of the Patuxent River in Ellicott City, Howard County. See Howard County ADC map 11 H7.

Broken Land Parkway and Route 32 Park and Ride
The Howard County Sierra Club commonly meets at the Park and Ride at the intersection of route 32 and Broken Land Parkway in Columbia, Howard County. The west side is the "bus patron" lot. See Howard County ADC map 19 J1.

Long Gate Parkway and Route 100 Park and Ride
Just east of route 29 off route 100 is a Park and Ride on the west side of Long Gate Parkway in Columbia, Howard County. See Howard County ADC map 12 C13.

Route 70 and Route 32 Park and Ride
The Howard County Sierra Club commonly meets at the Park and Ride at the intersection of route 70 and Route 32 in West Friendship, Howard County. The lot is northwest of the intersection. See Howard County ADC map 10 C1.

Vienna Metro Kiss and Ride
The Maryland Outdoor Club sometimes meets at the Kiss and Ride (not the Park and Ride) in Vienna. See the Northern Virginia ADC map 14 E5.
Directions: From where highway 95 meets the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 95 south.
At the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495), head west (counterclockwise) into Virginia.
Take exit 49 to highway 66 west.
Take exit 62 to Nutley Street/Vienna Metro (route 243).
Turn right onto Nutley Street.
Make the next left onto Virginia Center Boulevard.
The Park and Ride and the Kiss and Ride are on the left. The Park and Ride is the first lot and the Kiss and Ride is the second, with the parking meters.
Notes: About 45 minutes from Elkridge. No restrooms but if you head to the east side of the Metro, you can find a wooded area if you really need to pee.

Cadillac Trails

When people refer to something that is first class, they compare it to a Cadillac. Well there are a few famous trails that I would consider Cadillac Trails.

Allegheny Highlands Trail

The Allegheny Highlands Trail is a 335 mile work in progress. It will eventually link the C&O Canal Trail in Washington D.C. to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. On April 1, 2005, the first section of the 21 mile Allegheny Highlands Trail of Maryland officially opened. Together with 6 other trails in Pennsylvania, the Allegheny Highlands Trail is part of the Great Allegheny Passage.

The Great Allegheny Passage is a 150 mile rail trail which is free of motorized traffic. It includes a 52 mile branch to the Pittsburgh International Airport. The passage will offer a 10-12 foot wide nearly level trail through the Allegheny Mountains along scenic river valleys.

Allegheny Highlands Trail
Allegheny Trail Alliance
Allegheny Highlands Trail in Maryland

Location:
Phone:
Date: Unexplored
Directions:
Notes: None yet.

 
Anacostia Tributary Trail System
 
The Anacostia Tributary Trail System is a link in the national shore-to-shore American Discovery Trail. It provides approximately 18 miles of trails along the tributaries of the Anacostia River.

Obtain a free map of the Anacostia Trail System and other Prince George's County trails at
     Public Affairs and Marketing Office
     6600 Kenilworth Avenue
     Riverdale, Maryland
Monday through Friday 0800-1700.

Anacostia Trails Heritage Area (ATHA, Inc.)
     4310 Gallatin Street, 3rd Floor
     Hyattsville, MD 20781
     phone: 301-887-0777
Anacostia Tributary Trail Map
Anacostia Tributary Trail System
Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA)

Location: Mainly in Prince George's County. Some in Montgomery County. While there are many places one can access the trail, I believe the closest to Baltimore is the access at
     Cherry Hill Road Community Park
     9300 Cherry Hill Road
     College Park, MD 20740-1234
Phone: 301-699-2407, 301-922-3044 (general), 301-918-8111 (Cherry Hill Road Community Park)
Date: June 19, 2005
Directions to Cherry Hill Road Community Park:
From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) meets highway 95, take highway 95 south.
Merge onto Powder Mill Road (route 212) west via exit 29B towards Calverton.
Turn left onto Cherry Hill Road.
After crossing over highway 495, turn left into the park, just before the College Park Marketplace. Do not confuse the community park with a park that occurs earlier on the right.
Notes: 25 minute drive. Limited parking. No restrooms. Paint Branch Trail ends at Cherry Hill Road Community Park. I suggest starting a hike at this location then ending or passing through Lake Artemesia Natural Area, a 38 acre lake. Hiking from Cherry Hill Road Community Park to the lake, around the lake, and back is 8.5-9 miles. This natural area includes an aquatic garden and a fishing pier. It is open from dawn to dusk daily. Restrooms at lake. No vehicles are permitted on Lake Artemesia Natural Area grounds. Visitors should enter the park via trails at the 5200 block of Calvert Road in College Park or Osage Street and Swathmore Court in Berwyn Heights. Parking at Branchview/Ballew Avenue in Berwyn Heights.

Lake Artemesia Natural Area
     55th Avenue and Berwyn Road
     College Park, MD 20740
     Phone: 301-927-2163
Lake Artemesia
     600 Cleveland Avenue
     College Park, MD

 
Appalachian Trail
 
The Appalachian Trail is a continuous, marked footpath stretching from Maine to Georgia, covering 2168 miles.

Appalachian Trail
Appalachian Trail Conference (ATC)
Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC): Founded in 1927, the PATC protects and maintains 240 miles of the Appalachian Trail along with over 700 additional miles of wooded trails from Washington, DC to West Virginia.
White Blaze: A community of Appalachian Trail enthusiats.

Bear Spring Cabin/Locust Valley Church of God
Location: Locust Valley, Frederick County ADC map 26 D2 or Washington County ADC map 35 H4
Date: December 24, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 52 to highway 340 west.
At exit 2, turn right (north) on Burkittsville Road (route 17) to the town of Burkittsville.
Turn left (northwest) on Main Street/Gapland Road. Follow for about 0.3 miles.
Turn right (north) on Mountain Church Road. Follow for 2.5 miles. When the road splits, be sure to veer left to remain on Mountain Church Road. DO NOT follow the signs for "Locust Valley Bible Church."
About 0.9 miles after the split, you'll see "Locust Valley Church of God." Park behind the church at the tree line.
Notes: Lot holds about 20 vehicles. Might be tight on Sunday mornings. The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) Bear Spring Cabin is less than a quarter mile away. Take the steep, blue blazed White Rocks Trail to reach the Appalachian Trail at the White Rocks overlook, about 0.9 miles away. Special thanks to Sarah for introducing me to this location.

11.35 mile car shuttle hike
Meet group at the parking lot behind the Locust Valley Church of God near Bear Spring Cabin.
Leave some cars and take the others to Weverton/South Mountain Natural Environmental Area via the following route:
Take Mountain Church Road south for 1.5 miles.
Turn right (west) on Arnoldstown Road. Follow for a half mile to Gathland State Park.
Turn right (west) on Gapland Road and follow for one mile. At the split, veer left to remain on Gapland Road.
Turn left (south) on Rohrersville Road (route 67). Follow for 4.8 miles.
Turn left (east) on Weverton Road. Follow for 0.2 miles and park on the right (south) side of the road in the dirt lot.
Access the Appalachian Trail east of the lot.
The first stop is the scenic Weverton Cliff which provides a great view of the Potomac River.
After a little over 6 miles from the start, you'll come to Gathland State Park.
In another 3.5 miles, you'll come to the White Rocks overlook which will proivde a nice view to the south.
On the east side of White Rocks (left if you face the overlook from the trail), the blue blazed White Rocks Trail meanders it way down steeply to Locust Valley Church of God near Bear Spring Cabin.
Special thanks to Sarah for introducing me to this route.

Blackburn Trail Center
Location: 34899 Appalachian Trail Road, Round Hill, Virginia 20141, about 12 miles south of Harper Ferry (hiking distance via Appalachian Trail).
Phone: 443-621-2648 (caretaker)
Date: February 19, 2007
Directions from Baltimore: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 52 to highway/route 340 west. Drive into Virginia where route 340 is also called Jefferson Pike. Just before an Exxon gas station on the left is Harpers Ferry Road (route 671).
Turn left (south) on Harpers Ferry Road (route 671). Drive for about 8 miles.
At Charles Town Pike (route 9), turn left (southeast) towards the town of Hillsboro. Drive for about 1 mile.
Turn right (south) onto Cider Mill Road (route 751). Watch for a not-so-well-marked turn to the right (south) in about 1.5 miles, just before crossing over a stream. This is Woodgrove Road.
After about 1.9 miles, turn right (west) on Appalachian Trail Road (route 713), which is a gravel road. In 0.6 miles, state maintenance ends.
At the sign which reads "End of State Maintenance," head to the right, following the signs for Blackburn Trail Center. People going to center can ignore the "Private Road, No Trespassing" sign.
Continue around until you reach a three way split.
Take the center road, cross a wooden bridge and follow the road between two fields. In an ice storm, you may want to park in the field on the left before the road starts heading uphill then have someone with a 4 wheel drive vehicle come get you. Only about a mile left.
At end of the fields the road enters the woods and starts to climb.
Drive up the mountain staying on the dirt road following signs for Blackburn.
There may be a gate on the dirt road. If the caretaker is expecting you, he/she will have it unlocked.
You can park at the Center to unload, but please move your car to the lower parking lot to allow others to do so as well.
- OR -
Directions from Washington D.C.: From where the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495) and highway 95 meet, take highway 495 counterclockwise.
Take exit 45A to Washington Dulles Airport Access Road (highway 267) west.
Take exit 1A northwest to Leesburg Pike (route 7).
After passing through Leesburg, turn right (north) on route 9 heading to Hillsboro. Pay close attention when looking for the exit since it may not be well marked. This exit is about 3 miles after the route 7 and business 15 intersection.
Turn left (south) on route 719 in Hillsboro. This is easy to miss. It will be shortly after routes 690 and 718.
Watch for a not-so-well-marked turn to the left (south) in about a mile, just after crossing over a stream. This is Woodgrove Road though it might start out as Stoneypoint Road.
After about 1.9 miles, turn right (west) on Appalachian Trail Road (route 713), which is a gravel road. In 0.6 miles, state maintenance ends.
At the sign which reads "End of State Maintenance," head to the right, following the signs for Blackburn Trail Center. People going to center can ignore the "Private Road, No Trespassing" sign.
Continue around until you reach a three way split.
Take the center road, cross a wooden bridge and follow the road between two fields. In an ice storm, you may want to park in the field on the left before the road starts heading uphill then have someone with a 4 wheel drive vehicle come get you. Only about a mile left.
At end of the fields the road enters the woods and starts to climb.
Drive up the mountain staying on the dirt road following signs for Blackburn.
There may be a gate on the dirt road. If the caretaker is expecting you, he/she will have it unlocked.
You can park at the Center to unload, but please move your car to the lower parking lot to allow others to do so as well.
Notes: There is a parking area for 4-6 cars on the left just before a gate. If the gate is open, you can continue another 100 yards or so to a second parking area for about 6 cars by some old chimneys. Beyond this, there is a sign that says "Authorized Vehicles Only." Continue up the road to the trail center. Follow the more northerly of the two blue-blazed trails to the Appalachian Trail (AT). This climbs via switchbacks to the AT. Northbound AT is to the right, southbound is to the left. Reservations for the Blackburn Trail Center should be made in advance. There are no flush toilets, though the center has all the modern kitchen conveniences, including two dishwashers, refrigerators, microwave oven, etc. There are enough beds for about 25 people. Much of this information was provided by the 2007 caretaker or Appalachian Trail Parking. I highly recommend getting the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club map called "Appalachian Trail Map 7: Western Virginia and Northern Virginia" if you plan on spending any time in this area.

There are some good car shuttle day hikes that start, end, or pass by the Blackburn Trail Center. Note that these distances are approximate. Also see Cooties, Booties, and Snow.

Snickers Gap to Blackburn (7 miles):
Directions: From the Blackburn Trail Center, head south on route 719 towards Round Hill. Route 719 actually passes under route 7 (Harry F. Byrd Highway) but there should be signs that will lead you to the route 7 on-ramp.
Head southwest on route 7 for about 4 miles.
Turn right (north) on Pine Grove Road (route 679) then make an immediate right into the parking lot. The parking lot will hold about 6 vehicles. Head north and hike back to the Blackburn Trail Center.
If heading south on the Appalachian Trail, cross route 7 then head east for less than a quarter mile. The trail will pick up on the right.

Keys Gap to Blackburn (6 miles):
Directions: From the Blackburn Trail Center, head northwest on Charles Town Pike (route 9). At the Harpers Ferry Road (route 671) split, veer left to remain on route 9. After about 3.5 miles, there should be parking near where route 9 meets route 32, on the northwest side of the Appalachian Trail.
Head south and hike back to the Blackburn Trail Center.

Harpers Ferry to Blackburn (12 miles):
Directions: From the Blackburn Trail Center, drive to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.

Keys Gap to Snickers Gap (13 miles):
Directions: See above directions for Keys Gap and Snickers Gap. Obviously, this will require more planning and coordination with the car shuttle.

Black Rock Road
Location: Black Rock Road and Loy Wolfe Road. See Frederick County ADC map 11 B1
Date: June 2, 2007
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 42, turning right at the end of the ramp onto Main Street (route 17).
Go into the center of Myersville and after 0.6 miles, route 17 will turn right onto Wolfsville Road.
Continue on route 17 for 0.3 miles to the flashing lights at the intersection of Baltimore National Pike (route 40) and route 17.
Turn left onto route 40, heading northwest for 2 miles.
Turn right (northeast) on Pleasant Walk Road. Follow for 1.9 miles, driving slower as you get near mile 2 or you'll miss the next turn.
Turn left (northwest) on Loy Wolfe Road. Follow for 1.9 miles.
Look for parking near Black Rock Road. Note the no parking signs south of Black Rock Road.
Notes: No restroom. The trail begins between two houses directly across from Black Rock Road. Head up this trail. At the split, stay on the right to continue uphill. After a mile, you'll reach the Appalachian Trail. Head left to go south and right to go north. See trip report on June 2, 2007.

Gathland State Park
Location: Gapland Road and Arnoldtown Road, Frederick County ADC map 26 B7 or Washington County ADC map 35 F9
Date: June 4, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 52 to highway 340 west. Remain on highway 340 west for 15 miles.
Turn right (north) on route 67 (Rohrersville Road).  Travel about 5 miles towards Boonsboro.
Turn right (southeast) on Gapland Road. Travel about 1.5 miles.
Just after Townsend Road, there will be a stone archway with parking on the left. This is Gathland State Park. Trail runs perpendicular to Gapland Road in either direction. The archway is called the Civil War Correspondents Memorial Arch.
Notes: Soda machines. This location is about 7 miles from where the trail meets with Weverton Road.

Greenbrier AT
Location: Frederick County ADC map 10 G10
Date: June 2, 2007
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 42, turning right at the end of the ramp onto Main Street (route 17).
Go into the center of Myersville and after 0.6 miles, route 17 will turn right onto Wolfsville Road.
Continue on route 17 for 0.3 miles to the flashing lights at the intersection of Baltimore National Pike (route 40) and route 17.
Turn left onto route 40, heading northwest.
Follow for 2.5 miles. The parking lot is on the left.
Notes: Not sure what this place is actually called but since it is right outside of Greenbrier State Park, I'm calling it Greenbrier AT. The parking lot holds about 30 vehicles. No fee. No restrooms. The closest restroom is at the Visitor Center at Greenbrier State Park but there is an entrance fee. Access the Appalachian Trail at the west end of the parking lot. Once on the AT, walk across the highway 70 bridge to head south or walk along highway 70 to head north.

Harpers Ferry: Yet another place to access the Appalachian Trail.

Washington Monument State Park
Location: Frederick County ADC map 18 D3
Date: March 11, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 49 to Old National Pike (route 40 alternate), heading west.
After 8.8 miles, turn right onto Washington Monument Road.
After 0.9 miles, you'll reach a stop sign. Continue straight across the intersection, into the park and follow signs for parking.
Notes: As of March 2006, the entrance fee is two dollars. Restroom and museum available. Hike 5.5 miles north to Annapolis Rock, a popular climbing area with a scenic view of Greenbrier Lake and an eco-toilet where human waste decomposes quickly with the help of red wiggler worms. Special thanks to Tim R. of the Howard County Sierra Club for introducing me to this area.

Weverton/South Mountain Natural Environmental Area
Location: Weverton Road, Weverton, Washington County ADC map 37 D9
Date: March 5, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 52 to highway 340 west. Remain on highway 340 west for 15 miles.
Turn right (north) on route 67 (Rohrersville Road).  Travel about 0.2 miles.
Turn right (east) on Weverton Road.  Travel about 0.2 miles.
Park on the right side of the road before the road turns north.  Trail is towards the east.
Notes: No restrooms.  This location appears to be the closest connection to the Appalachian Trail from Baltimore. Parking in dirt lot for about 8 vehicles.

Northeast: The first part of the northeast route is a somewhat rugged wilderness hike.  At the top of the hill is a scenic overlook of the Potomac River called Weverton Cliffs that can be found by following the blue blazes at the top of the ridge.  It is six miles to the next road, Gapland Road, at the Gathland State Park (see below).  Another 5 miles to Reno Monument Road and another mile to Old National Pike (route 40 alternate).  This area, known as Turners Gap, has Dalhgren Backpacker's Campground, which is has real showers, fresh water, and places to pitch your tent. Washington Monument State Park, less than one mile north has restrooms and a telephone.  The highest section of the Appalachian Trail in Maryland is about 2 miles south of Reno Monument Road and is known as Lambs Knoll, elevation ~1750 feet.

Southeast: Travel southwest to get to the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal National Historical Park and Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park.  The railroad bridge at Harper’s Ferry is 2.25 miles from Weverton Road.

If you want to camp near the Appalachian Trail without "roughing it," check out Maple Tree Campground at
     20716 Townsend Road
     Gapland, Maryland 21779
     Phone: 301-432-5585
This campsite has a picnic pavillion, tree cottage, summer tree house, group rental tent sites, and field sites. Be sure to ask about alcoholic beverage restrictions.
Click to send e-mail

White Oak Lane
Location: End of White Oak Lane. See Frederick County ADC map 10 G1 or Washington County ADC map 28 A3
Date: Unexplored
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 42, turning right at the end of the ramp onto Main Street (route 17).
Go into the center of Myersville and after 0.6 miles, route 17 will turn right onto Wolfsville Road.
Continue on route 17 for 0.3 miles to the flashing lights at the intersection of Baltimore National Pike (route 40) and route 17.
Turn left onto route 40, heading northwest for 4.1 miles.
Turn right (north) onto Crystall Falls Drive. Follow for 2 miles.
Turn right (east) on White Oak Lane. Follow to end.
Notes: Some maps call this White Oak Lane while others call it White Oak Road. The trail travels up Black Rock Creek for a mile to the Appalachian Trail. In this area is Pogo Campsite. Turn left to head north or right to move south. Unexplored.

 
Bear Run Nature Reserve
 
The Ohiopyle area of Pennsylvania is full of many things to see such as the Frank Lloyd Wright houses, Cucumber Falls, Ohiopyle Falls, the Youghiogheny River, and the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. If you get a chance, be sure to also hike at Bear Run Nature Reserve. This 5000 acre reserve has over 20 miles of marked trails. It is owned and operated by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC).

Bear Run - Trails.com
Bear Run - Watson's Choice
Bear Run - Local Hikes

Location: Route 381, 3.5 miles north of Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania
Phone: 724-329-8501
Date: February 17, 2008
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick). Follow for 91 miles.
Merge onto highway 68 west/route 40 west via exit 1A on the left, towards Cumberland. Follow for 66 miles.
Merge onto route 40 west via exit 14B towards Uniontown. Follow for 0.7 miles.
Turn left onto route 40/National Pike which will take you into Pennsylvania. Follow for 20 miles.
Turn right onto route 381. Follow for eight miles to Ohiopyle. In Ohiopyle, this will also take on the name Mill Run Road. Look for the nature reserve 3.5 miles north of Ohiopyle on the right (east) side of the road.
Notes: 3.5 hours from Hanover, Maryland. Please wear blaze orange during hunting season (late autumn and winter). Parking for about 30 vehicles. No outdoor restroom though there might be one at Bear Run Center if it is open.

On the Laurel Run Trail, there is a blue blazed offshoot called Laurel Glen. I highly recommend taking this route down to Laurel Run then hopping across it and up the other side. If there is a good amount of water, you'll see some very nice falls.

Here's a photo of a map at the parking lot. I added some annotations to denote the trail markings (blazes). Unfortunately, there was no scale so I don't know the lengths of the trails.
     

There are campsites for backpackers. To make reservations or to just get more information, contact the
     Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC)
     Mill Run, Pennsylvania 15464

 
Black Hill Regional Park
 
Black Hill Regional Park is a terrific place for a family or group outing. There are boat rentals, a fishing pier, paved paths, dirt trails, a dog exercise area, a playground, and covered picnic shelters. The park surrounds Little Seneca Lake. It is a spectacular area for both paved and dirt trail running, casual biking, and casual hiking. However, the hiking trails lack the scenic overlooks common in many other parks and leave the serious hiker wanting much more. The paved trails are often within a stone's throw of homes. They are somewhat reminiscent of the paved trails in Columbia, Howard County, Maryland.

Montgomery County Park and Planning: Black Hill Regional Park
K9 Trail Blazers: Black Hill Regional Park

Location: 20930 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, Maryland 20841, Montgomery County ADC map 9 C9
Phone: 301-972-9396 (park manager)
Date: May 6, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take exit 27 to highway 495 counterclockwise towards Silver Spring.
Take exit 35 to highway 270 north.
Take exit 16A to the Father Hurley Boulevard (route 27) east. This will become Ridge Road.
Turn left (north) onto Frederick Road (route 355).
Turn left (west) onto Old Baltimore Road.
Turn left (southwest) onto Lake Ridge Road.
Notes: 55 minute drive from Elkridge. Note that the above route is definitely faster than driving via highway 70 toward Frederick. The park has no entrance fee. Restrooms available. Open 0600 to sunset. Boat rental and lauch with access to Little Seneca Lake. One can access the natural surface connector to Black Hill Trail at the Lake Ridge Drive and Black Hill Road intersection. Access to the paved section of Black Hill Trail at the northwest side of Lake Churchill is near the Wynnfield Drive and Shore Harbour Drive intersection. The park offers easy hiking over circuitous dirt trails. I recommend bringing a compass if hiking on on overcast day. I have not yet explored the trails west of the contact station. The trails are not blazed but there are numerous signs at key locations.

 
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
 
The Refuge was established in 1933 as a waterfowl sanctuary. It consists of over 27,000 acres of freshwater impoundments, brackish tidal wetlands, open fields, and mixed evergreen and deciduous forests. Currently, the Refuge is managed by the Department of Interior's U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Friends of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Home Page - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Wildlife Drive, Refuge Office, and Visitor Center
Location: 2145 Key Wallace Drive, Cambridge, Maryland 21613; Dorchester County ADC map 29 G2
Phone: 410-228-2677
Date: December 31, 2005
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south to highway 50 east.
Cross over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.  Pay $2.50 toll one way only.  On the eastern shore, highway 50 will split into highway 50 and highway 301.  Stay on highway 50. Pass through Easton. Cross over Senator Frederick C. Malkus, Jr. (Choptank River) Bridge. Follow route 50 (approximately 4 miles) until you come to a traffic light just past the Dorchester Square Shopping Center (Center includes Wal Mart and Food City).
You will see a brown sign directing you to the refuge. Turn right at this light onto route 16 West (Church Creek Road). Follow route 16 straight through a traffic light at Snow's Turn, until you pass the South Dorchester High School.
At the blinker light, turn left onto Egypt Road just past the school buildings (first road past the traffic light). Follow Egypt road for approximately 7 miles and it will dead end at Key Wallace Drive.
You will see a brown refuge sign directing you to turn left onto Key Wallace Drive to go to the Wildlife Drive. Or turn right onto Key Wallace Drive to get to the Refuge Office and to the Visitor Center. If turning right onto Key Wallace, the Refuge Office (headquarters) will be the first building on the left, and the Visitor Center will be the second building on your left about 2 miles.
Notes: The Wildlife Drive is about five miles long on a paved road. The entrance to the drive is about a third of a mile southeast from the Egypt Road and Key Wallace Drive intersection. There is a self service pay station near the entrance for both vehicles and bicycles (probably pedestrians too). There are two hiking trails off the drive: a one-third mile trail called Marsh Edge and a one-half mile called Woods Trail. There is parking at the start of both trails. There is also a restroom at the far end of the Marsh Edge parking lot. The Wildlife Drive and associated trails are open from dawn to dusk every day. Pets are not allowed out of vehicles on the Wildlife Drive or on the trails, even if on a leash.

There is a 2 mile dirt trail that is new as of 2005 located on the northwest side of the Egypt Road and Key Wallace Drive intersection. There is a dirt parking lot at the start of the trail.

Visitor Center hours are Monday through Friday 0800-1600 and on Saturdays and Sundays 0900-1700. One can purchase the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Paddling Trails map and gifts at the Visitor Center. Restroom available.

There is a 20 and 25 mile bike loop, both of which start and end at the Visitor Center. These loops overlap only for 2.5 miles. They are on well maintained paved roads. If biking the 25 mile loop, note that Andrews Road may not have a sign.

If looking to camp overnight, see Taylors Island Family Campground.

 
Bull Run Mountain
 
On August 28, 1862, Confederate General Robert E. Lee arrived at Thoroughfare Gap with most of his Army of Northern Virginia. They were attempting to reinforce the rest of his army under Major General Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson around Manassas before the Federal Major General John Pope his Army of Virginia could crush them. This last obstacle for Lee was defended by about 12,000 Union troops under the command of Brigadier General James Ricketts. But Confederate Lieutenant General James Longstreet and his roughly 48,000 troops were able to push the Union Division out of the gap clearing the way to Jackson. This short but important battle allowed for the reunification of the Army of Northern Virginia and the defeat of the Union Army of Virginia at the Second Battle of Manassas (Bull Run).
- from Chuck and Cynthia of the Maryland Outdoor Club

Bull Run Mountains Conservancy
Bull Run Mountain

Trailhead Kiosk, Mountain House
Location: P.O. Box 210, Broad Run, Virginia 20137
Phone: 703-753-2631
Date: July 22, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore Beltway (highway 695), take highway 95 south to the Washington D.C. Beltway (highway 495).
Follow highway 495 counterclockwise.
Take exit 49 to highway 66 west.
Take exit 40 to James Madison Highway (route 15) south.
Turn right (west) onto John Marshall Highway (route 55).
Turn right (north) onto Turner Road. If you come to route 628, then you've gone too far.
Just after crossing route 66, turn left (west) onto Beverley Mill Road. Follow to end.
Notes: There is parking at a stone house on the left. No restroom. Five dollar entrance fee at the trailhead to be paid on the honor system. Maps available at the trailhead. There are several short trails with a gorgeous view to the west at an area north of the designated natural area on the west side.

 
Calvert Cliffs State Park
 
These cliffs dominate the shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay for thirty miles in Calvert County.  They were created over 15 million years ago when Southern Maryland was covered by a warm, shallow sea.  Over 600 species of fossils have been identified from these cliffs, with the teeth of various species of shark being the most abundant.

Calvert Cliffs State Park 1
Calvert Cliffs State Park 2

Location: Calvert County ADC map 17 B12
Date: January 31, 2004
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest.  Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
Take Pennsylvania Avenue (route 4) east.  Bear to the right at the split.  Route 4 will turn into Southern Maryland Boulevard.  It will then merge with Solomons Island Road (route 2).
About 14 south of Prince Frederick, turn left (east) at the sign for Calvert Cliffs State Park.
Notes: The park has a few short but scenic trails that lead to a beach known for harboring prehistoric shark teeth.

Capital Crescent Trail

The Capital Crescent Trail is an 11 mile rail-trail path that goes from Georgetown to Silver Spring, Maryland. The southern 7 miles between Georgetown and Bethesda has a 9-foot wide asphalt surface and is in excellent condition. The northern Georgetown Branch extension provides a crushed gravel surface for the last 4 miles between Bethesda and Silver Spring. The two trails are connected by a tunnel located under downtown Bethesda.

Capital Crescent Trail
Capital Crescent Trail - DC Rail Trail
The Capital Crescent Trail Website Homepage
Fletcher's Boat House

For a detailed four color trail map, send a self addressed stamped envelope to
     CCCT
     Box 30703
     Bethesda, Maryland 20824

Fletcher's Boat House
Location: 4940 Canal Road, Washington D.C. 20007, Montgomery County ADC map 40 K10
Phone: 202-244-0461
Date: October 30, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take exit 27 to highway 495 counterclockwise towards Silver Spring.
After the highway 270 split, take exit 41 to Clara Barton Parkway.
Follow the Clara Barton Parkway until it becomes Canal Road at Chain Bridge.
Continue on Canal Road until the entrance of Fletcher's Boat House at Canal and Reservoir.
Notes: Plenty of parking available. Picnic area, public phones, and refreshments sold. This location is about 3 miles from the southern end of the trail. Food and restrooms available. Restrooms are on the opposite side of the canal as the boathouse. Special thanks to Susanita for helping scout this trail.

Address
     6602 Foxville Road
     Thurmont, Maryland 21788-1598

Phone
     Visitor Information (TTY): 301-663-9388
     Headquarters: 301-663-9330
Click to send e-mail

Catoctin Mountain Park

Location: Frederick County ADC map 6 K5
Date: January 5, 2004
Phone: 301-663-9330/9388
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 53B to Frederick Freeway (route 15) north.  This will turn into Catoctin Mountain Highway.  Follow to Thurmont.
Take the exit to Main Street West turning right (west) at the offramp.  Main Street West will turn into Foxville Road (route 77).  Travel about 2.25 miles.
Turn right onto Park Central Road then make and immediate right into the visitor center.
Notes: One hour and 10 minutes from Arbutus. One hour and 17 minutes from Hanover. Visitor center hours are Monday through Thursday 1000 to 1630, Friday 1000 to 1700, and Saturday and Sunday 0830 to 1700.  Telephone, restrooms, trail access, water, and small book and map shop are available at the visitor center.  Several other parking lots and access points to trails exist on Park Central Road.

There is also parking and immediate trail access on both sides of Foxville Road (route 77) near the bridge over Hunting Creek at Camp Peniel, Frederick County ADC map 7 B6. Room for about 6 vehicles on the north side and 10 vehicles on the south. The trailhead to Chimney Rock is about 100 meters west on the north side of the road.

Additional parking just west of Catoctin Hollow Road and east of the dam at Hunting Creek Lake. Room for about 20 vehicles. See Frederick County ADC map 6 J6. The Dam Overlook Trailhead is about a tenth of a mile south on the east side of Catoctin Hollow Road. This is the start of the Old Misery Trail.

There is an overflow dirt lot on the west side of Park Central Road (directly across the visitor center) that holds about 40 vehicles.

The Hog Rock parking lot off Park Central Road has room for about 40 vehicles. There are toilets at this lot but they may not be open during the winter.

No parking fees for any lots in Catoctin.

The trails on the Catoctin side are not blazed but there are signs and the trails are fairly well worn.

If you are heading from Thurmont Vista to Blue Ridge Summit Overlook, the trail junction is east of the parking lot. The map from the park service does not clearly indicate this.

Be flexible in planning your hike since Catoctin is home to Camp David, the Presidential retreat. When the President visits, some trails may be closed off. Don't even think of hiking on the closed trails or you'll be in deep sh*t when you get caught.

Some scenic views include South Bob's Hill Overlook, Chimney Rock, and Thurmont View. Good places for a little rock scrambling include Cat Rock and Wolf Rock.

On the return trip, there are plenty of gas stations and restaurants at Thurmont Boulevard and Frederick Road which is located at the first exit off Catoctin Mountain Highway (route 15) south from Foxville Road (route 77).  Mountain Gate Restaurant is an old fashioned American buffet.

See my February 9, 2008 and March 1, 2008 Catoctin and Cunningham Falls hike trip reports.

Here's a map that I downloaded from the National Park Service then cropped and added my own annotations showing mileage estimates between grey dots.
     

Also check out the Bike Team D.C. map.

Be sure to check out Cunningham Falls State Park for more hiking options in the same area.

 
Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal/Towpath
 
The Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) canal follows the Potomac River for 184.5 miles from Washington D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland.  The canal served as a transportation route from 1828-1924.  Many original structures, including locks, lockhouses, and aqueducts, remain standing.  The canal's towpath provides a nearly level, unbroken trail through the natural scenery of the Potomac River Valley.  The towpath also makes for an easy hike, run, or bicycling with a road bike.

C&O Canal National Historical Park, Headquarters
1850 Dual Highway, Suite 100
Hagerstown, Maryland 21740-6620
Phone: headquarters 301-739-4200, visitor information 301-739-4200
Click to send e-mail

Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal 1
Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal 2
Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal 3

Anglers Inn
Location: MacArthur Boulevard, C&O Canal National Historical Park and Trail, Montgomery County ADC map 34 A12
Phone: 301-767-3714
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take exit 27 to highway 495 counterclockwise towards Silver Spring.
After the highway 270 split, take exit 41 to Clara Barton Parkway.
Turn left (west) onto MacArthur Boulevard.
There will be a parking lot on the left after about one mile.  Park here.
Notes: Port-a-johns available.  No fee.  About a half mile northwest on the C&O towpath is the south side of section A (northernmost section) of the Billy Goat Trail.  This is the most rugged part of the trail and one of my personal favorites.  Very rocky but only 1.7 miles long.  About a tenth of a mile southeast on the towpath is the north side of section B of the Billy Goat Trail.  This is an easier section about 1.4 miles long. The Billy Goat Trail can also be accessed at Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center and Carderock.

Brunswick Bridge

Carderock
Location: Clara Barton Parkway, C&O Canal National Historical Park and Trail, Montgomery County ADC map 34 E13
Date: January 5, 2008
Phone: 301-767-3714
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take exit 27 to highway 495 counterclockwise towards Silver Spring.
After the highway 270 split, take exit 41 to Carderock/Great Falls, the last exit in Maryland.
You will be heading west on the Clara Barton Parkway.
Go about a mile to the first exit (at the Naval Surface Warfare Center), and follow signs to Carderock.
Head left to go over the bridge then bear right on the other side of the bridge.
After the tunnel under the canal, turn right where the road comes to a T.
There is plenty of parking but the closest is at a lot on your immediate left.
Notes: Restrooms available.  No fee. The Carderock area is popular with rock climbers. Head east on the towpath to access the east end of the C section of the Billy Goat Trail. Head west to access the west end of the C section or walk a little further to catch the east end of the B section. The Billy Goat Trail can also be accessed at Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center and Anglers Inn. For a trip report of a hike in this area, see January 5, 2008.

Edwards Ferry

Monocacy Aqueduct
Location: Montgomery County ADC map 6 H7
Date: January 5, 2004
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 53A to Dwight D. Eisenhower highway (highway 270) southeast.
Take exit 22, Old Hundred Road (route 109) left (west) at end of ramp.
Turn right at Comus Road (route 95).  This will lead to the base of Sugarloaf Mountain.
At the parking lot area at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain, bear left at Mount Ephraim Road.  There may not be a sign for this road.  If you are on this road, you should pass the pond on your right.
Turn right at Mouth of Monocacy Road.  Cross over single lane bridge.
At the split in the road, stay on the right.
Notes: Porta-john available.  Limited parking but more available just a short walk to the boat ramp area.  This area connects to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath.  An 8 minute walk northwest on the towpath leads to Indian Flats campground where a porta-john is available.  A 24 minute walk southwest from the parking lot leads to a private whitewater kayaking course.  I think this is where the Olympians train.

Nolands Ferry
Location: Tuscarora, Frederick County ADC map 44 E10
Date: May 22, 2004
Phone: 301-739-4206
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise) to exit 16, highway 70 west. (to Frederick).
Take highway 70 to exit 53A, Dwight D. Eisenhower highway (highway 270) southeast.
Take exit 31 to Buckeystown Pike (route 85), turning right (south) at the end of the ramp.
Turn right (southwest) onto route 28.  Follow route 28 as it veers to the right and becomes Tuscarora Road.
Turn left onto New Design Road and follow to the end.  It eventually turns into a gravel road that leads to a park.
Notes: Porta-john available.  65 minutes from Arbutus.  One can also follow Nolands Road to the park but this appears to be less maintained.  Limited parking but more just before crossing the C&O canal in a dirt area.  Closed sunset to sunrise.

Point of Rocks

Seneca Landing Park

Violettes Lock
Location: Seneca, Montgomery County ADC map 26 F9
Date: November 25, 2005
Phone: 301-739-4206
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take exit 27 to highway 495 counterclockwise towards Silver Spring.
Take exit 39 to River Road (route 190), heading northwest.
Turn left onto Violettes Lock Road and follow to end.
Notes: This may not be the fastest route but it is the simplest. Two porta-johns available. Parking for about 17 vehicles. This site is special in that it has a small gravel boat ramp for those who wish to paddle in the canal. Violettes Lock is at lock 23 and just south of Rileys Lock (lock 24) in Seneca.

Fletcher's Boat House

Harpers Ferry

 
Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge (NWR)
 
Canaan Valley is the largest high-elevation valley east of the Mississippi River. This position gives it a cool, most climate, harboring plants and animals normally found much further north. Thirty-one miles of access roads and trails are open at various times to hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, and cross country skiers.
- from Geico Direct, Fall 2006

Mailing address:
     HC 70, Box 200
     Davis, West Virginia 26260

Links
Canaan Valley NWR
Frequently Asked Questions
GORP - Canaan Valley
Hiking in Canaan Valley
Park Information - Canaan Valley
Tucker County - Canaan Valley

Location: Tucker County, West Virginia
Date: January 12, 2007
Phone: 304-866-3858
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take exit 27 to highway 495 counterclockwise towards Silver Spring.
Take exit 49 to highway 66 west toward Manassas/Front Royal.
Stay on highway 66 until it ends at highway 81.
Take highway 81 southwest. Stay on highway 81 until the route 55 (second) exit.
At the stop sign on the exit ramp, turn right (north) on route 55 toward Wardensville. Head into West Virginia. Pass through Wardensville, Moorefield, Petersburg, and into the Seneca Rocks.
At the stop sign in Seneca Rocks, turn right (west) on route 33/55. Stay on 33/55 until you get into Harman. There will be a sign for the State Parks (Canaan Valley and Blackwater Falls).
Turn right (north) on route 32. Only 9 miles to go! Stay on route 32. The refuge headquarters is on route 32, about 2 miles past Canaan Valley Resort State Park.
Notes: About 4.5 hours from Elkridge.

See January 14, 2007 for a description of a day hike on Table Rock Overlook Trail (TR13) and Railroad Grade Trail (TR110).

 
Cunningham Falls State Park
 
Cunningham Falls State Park is located in the Catoctin Mountains.  It is known for its history, scenic beauty, and a 78-foot cascading waterfall.  In 1954, this area was split into two parks, divided by Maryland Route 77.  The northern part became Catoctin Mountain Park, a unit of the National Park Service.  The southern part is now Cunningham Falls State Park.   $2 or $3 entrance fee.  Camping only in designated areas for $20 per night.

Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks, Inc.
14039 Catoctin Hollow Road
Thurmont, Maryland 21788

Cunningham Falls State Park

Manor Area
Location: Manor Area Visitor Center, Catoctin Mountain Highway, Thurmont, Maryland 21788, Frederick County ADC map 7 B13
Date: January 5, 2004
Phone: 301-271-7574
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 53B to Frederick Freeway (route 15) north.  This will turn into Catoctin Mountain Highway.  Follow towards Thurmont.
Turn left (west) at Cunningham Falls Park Road.
Notes: Visitor center, restrooms, campground, picnic tables, and plenty of parking available.  Area connects to Bob’s Hill Trail.  One hour from Arbutus.  This is probably the closest access point to the Cunningham Falls/Catoctin Mountain area from Arbutus.

William Houck Area
Location: Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Park, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont, Maryland 21788, Frederick County ADC map 6 G5 (Falls)
Date: January 5, 2004
Phone: 301-271-7574
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise).
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west (to Frederick).
Take exit 53B to Frederick Freeway (route 15) north.  This will turn into Catoctin Mountain Highway.  Follow to Thurmont.
Take the exit to Main Street West turning right (west) at the offramp.  Main Street West will turn into Foxville Road (route 77).  Pass the Catoctin Mountain Park visitor center on the right.
Turn left (southwest) onto Catoctin Hollow Road.
Turn right onto William Houck Drive.  Follow signs for falls parking lot.
Notes: About one half mile from parking lot to falls.  Extra parking available near lake.  Restrooms, picnic area, soda machines, beach, and phone available.  One hour and 16 minutes from Arbutus.

Please note that if you are anywhere near Cat Rock between mid-September and February 28 or mid-April and mid-May, you will want to wear blaze orange since these are the times when hunting is permitted nearby.

See my February 9, 2008 Catoctin and Cunningham Falls hike trip report.

Also see Catoctin Mountain Park for more hiking options in the same area.

 
Dolly Sods
 
The Dolly Sods Wilderness is a U.S. Wilderness Area in the Allegheny Mountains in West Virginia, in the Monongahela National Forest. It is the highest plateau of its type east of the Mississippi River with altitude ranging from around 4000 feet at the top of a mountain ridge on the Allegheny Front to about 2700 feet at the outlet of Red Creek.
- from Wikipedia - Dolly Sods

Forests Roads (FR) 19, 75, and 70 are graveled, rough, steep, and narrow with sharp curves and no guard rails. Conditions can be snowy, idy, muddy, or dusty. There is no snow removal on these roads. FR75 is normally closed January through April. FR70 is closed March through September.
- from sign at trail head

The West Virginia Highlands Conservancy provides good topographical maps of the area.

Additional information can be obtained from the following:

Cheat-Potomac Ranger District, HC59
Box 240
Petersburg, West Virginia 26847
Phone: 304-257-4488, extension 0
Monogahela National Forest

Monogahela National Forest
200 Sycamore Street
Elkins, West Virginia 26241
Phone: 304-636-1800, 888-283-0303 (weekends and after hours)

Seneca Rocks Discovery Center near the route 28/55 and route 33/55 intersection.

Phone: 304-567-2827

Links:
GORP - Dolly Sods
Tucker County - Canaan Valley

In case of emergency, call
     Tucker County Communications: 911
     Grant County Communications: 304-257-1212

Public phones are located at
     Canaan Valley Stores on Route 32
     Smokehole Caverns on Route 28

Dolly Sods Scenic Area
Scenic Overlook: a spectacular view to the east of the Potomac River valley and mountain ridges extending into Virginia.
Northland loop trail: a half mile trail with interpretive signs. You'll see bogs and rocky heath barrens that include blueberries, azaleas, mountain laurel, and rhododendron.
Bear rocks: an expansive view of huckleberry plains, wind blown spruce, and rock cliffs.
- from sign at trail head

U.S. Forest Service - Dolly Sods Scenic Area

For directions, see Dolly Sods Wilderness.

Dolly Sods North
The beauty of this backcountry is unmatched in its unique landscape, encompassing areas from rock outcroppings, to bogs and marshes, to spruce and hardwood stands offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and hunting.
- from sign at trail head

Flatrock and Roaring Plains
This backcountry of bogs, berries, and rocky heath barrens offers opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and hunting. From the rocky plains, clear mountain streams descend steeply through lush northern hardwood forests.
- from sign at trail head

See September 13, 2007 for the description of a 6.7 mile loop hike on Boar's Nest Trail (TR518), FR70, and South Prong Trail (TR517).

Dolly Sods Wilderness
The Dolly Sods Wilderness was set aside to preserve the natural character of the land - not just to provide recreational activities. The presence of humans in the Wilderness should not be noticeable. To soften the effects of human use, campsites should be left with no evidence that you were there. Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 10 people.

The trails are not blazed and signs are found only at trail junctions (but not all). Some trails are hard to follow. You should have and know how to use topographical maps and compass. This area is not a place for the unprepared hiker.

Highly explosive live bombs from World War II training can still be found in Dolly Sods. Do not touch! Report immediately to 1-888-283-0303.
- from sign at trail head

One should be advised that the junction of Rocky Point Trail (TR554) and Red Creek Trail (TR514) is particularly confusing. The maps show three trails emerging from this junction but there are in fact four as of September 2006. The trail that heads north and down to Red Creek (rather than northwest or southeast) is not shown on the map and is not maintained. It leads down to the creek but no further.

Potomac Appalachian Trail Club - Dolly Sods Wilderness
U.S. Forest Service - Dolly Sods Wilderness
Local Hikes - Red Creek Trail

Location: near Laneville, West Virginia. Mostly in Tucker County. DeLorme West Virginia Atlas and Gazetteer map 38 F3 and F4
Date: September 9, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take exit 27 to highway 495 counterclockwise towards Silver Spring.
Take exit 49 to highway 66 west toward Manassas/Front Royal.
Take exit 6 southwest to highway 340/522, Front Royal. Stay on route 340.
After crossing over the North Fork of the Shenandoah River but before crossing the South Fork, turn right (west) on route 55 at the stoplight. Follow route 55 into Moorefield, West Virginia.
In Moorefield, turn left (south) onto route 55/28, which merges with highway 220.
In Petersburg, turn right on North Main Street to remain on route 55/28.
Turn right on Jordan Run Road. If you come to the town of Hopeville, you've gone too far. Remain on Jordan Run Road for one mile.
Turn left on Forest Road (FR) 19.
Turn left and follow FR19 for 6 miles to the Dolly Sods Scenic Area. The wilderness is directly ahead of you at the intersection with FR75.
Turn right for Wildlife and Fisher Spring trailheads; turn left for Rohrbaugh and Red Creek trailheads.
Notes: The Red Creek trailhead appears south of Red Creek (prior to) on the east side just behind the cabins. Parking for about 8 vehicles. About 4.25 hours from Elkridge.

Special thanks to Norma for taking me to Dolly Sods. For photos from our trip, see September 9-10, 2006.

 
Elk Neck State Park

This park is located on the peninsula formed by the North East and Elk Rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.  It is comprised of sandy beaches, marshlands and heavily wooded bluffs.  A few trails wander through the area, including an easy walking trail to Turkey Point Lighthouse which provides a view of the Elk River and the Chesapeake Bay.

Elk Neck State Park

Location: Cecil County ADC map 19 F9
Date: February 7, 2004
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 northeast through the Fort McHenry Tunnel.
At exit 100, take North East Road (route 272) south towards North East.  Route 272 will turn into Turkey Point Road.  Drive through the town of North East, then into Elk Neck State Park.
For camping area, turn left at sign which reads “Elk River Area Camping, Cabins, Park Store,” Campground Road.
Notes: Five short trails in park, the longest being 2 miles.  For camping reservations, call 1-888-432-2267 Monday through Friday 0800 to 2000 or make reservations via the internet.  70 minutes from Arbutus.

 
Flag Ponds Park
 
This 327-acre park just north of Calvert Cliffs in Calvert County, Maryland features one-mile of sandy beach on the Bay and over two miles of hiking trails.

Flag Ponds Nature Park
Visit Flag Ponds Nature Park

Location: Calvert County ADC map 16 H3
Date: April 9, 2006
Phone: 410-586-1477 (information), 410-535-5327 (reservations)
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest. Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301).
Take Pennsylvania Avenue (route 4) east. Bear to the right at the split. Route 4 will turn into Southern Maryland Boulevard. It will then merge with Solomons Island Road (route 2). Stay on route 4 for a total of 28 miles.
Just 10 miles south of Prince Frederick, look for the sign and turn left.
If you get to the entrance to the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Station, you've gone too far.
Notes: The park has a few short but scenic trails that lead to a beach known for harboring prehistoric shark teeth. The park is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 0900-1800. In April through May, and September through October, it is open 0900-1800, weekends only. Annual Park Pass: 15 dollars for in-county residents, 20 dollars for non residents. April through October: 4 dollars for in-county residents, 6 dollars for non-residents. November through March: 3 dollars in-county resident or non-resident. Fee is per car. At the visitor center, there are restrooms, soda machines, water fountain, and pay phone. Trails are not blazed but easy to follow. Trail maps available at the entrance. The park has numerous boardwalks, bay and pond views, and beach access. Very scenic but very short trails. I suggest making this a dual trip and checking out Calvert Cliffs State Park also.