Michaux State Forest
 
This forest is comprised of over 85,000 acres of managed forest land and three state parks.
     10099 Lincoln Way East
     Fayetteville, Pennsylvania 17222
     phone: 717-352-2211

Michaux State Forest
Michaux State Forest Recreation Page
Wildernet.com - Michaux State Forest

If you plan on exploring this area, I highly recommend purchasing Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) map 2-3, Appalachian Trail, PA route 94 to US route 30.

Caledonia State Park
This park is comprised of about 1200 acres.
Location: Franklin County, Pennsylvania, about 15 miles west of Gettysburg
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 53B to Frederick Freeway (route 15) north.  This will turn into Catoctin Mountain Highway.  Follow to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
Turn left (west) on Hanover Road (route 116). Follow for 2 miles.
Enter next roundabout and take second exit onto Chambersburg Street/Lincoln Highway/Route 30. Follow route 30 for about 13.5 miles to the Michaux State Forest Headquarters. Continue for another mile to reach the Appalachian Trail. This is the Caledonia State Park area.
Notes: .

Caledonia State Park - PA DCNR
Caledonia State Park - StateParks.com

Mont Alto State Park
This park is comprise of about 35 acres and is the oldest state park in Pennsylvania.
Date: Unexplored.

Pine Grove Furnace Park
This park is comprised of about 700 acres.
Location: Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, about 15 miles northwest of Gettysburg
Date: December 13, 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).
Take exit 53B to Frederick Freeway (route 15) north.  This will turn into Catoctin Mountain Highway.  Follow to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
Turn left (west) on Hanover Road (route 116). Follow for 2 miles.
Enter next roundabout and take second exit onto Chambersburg Street/Lincoln Highway/Route 30. Follow route 30 for about 14 miles to Pine Grove Road (route 233).
Turn right (northeast) on Pine Grove Road (route 233) and follow for about 13 miles.
Route 233 will veer left at the park headquarters. Continue straight on Hunters Run Road. In 0.15 miles, there will be a road on the right that leads down to a large parking lot. The Appalachian Trail resides between the lot and stream. Pine Grove Furnace State Park will be on the right
Notes: Parking lot holds maybe 40 vehicles. About a 2 hour drive from Hanover, Maryland. Walk south to see the iron furnace. See my February 2, 2008 and December 13, 2008 trip reports.

Pine Grove Furnace - PA DCNR
Pine Grove Furnace State Park - StateParks.com

 
Patapsco Valley State Park
 
Patapsco Valley State Park extends along the Patapsco River for 35 miles.  It meanders from Elkridge in the east to Woodbine in the west.  This river park encompasses over 15,000 acres and several distinct recreational areas.

Some of the unmaintained trails, particularly those in the Elkridge area, are shared with dirt bikes and quad runners. Many of these trails are very difficult to follow and some seem to pass through private property...or at least property with "no tresspassing" sign. Lots of litter in the Elkridge area.

Patapsco History
Patapsco Valley State Park
(Friends of) Patapsco Valley State Park

Hilton Area
Location: Catonsville, Baltimore County ADC map 41 C8
Date: 2005
Phone: 410-461-5005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take exit 47B towards Catonsville.
Turn right (northwest) onto Rolling Road (route 166).
Turn left onto Brook Road, Ridge Road, or Park Drive.
Turn left onto Hilton Avenue.  Follow for 1.5 miles to the park entrance on the right.
Notes: There are a variety of short trails along with a swinging bridge across the river to the Orange Grove area which hosts another network of trails.

Main Entrance to Avalon/Glen Artney/Orange Grove area
Location: Elkridge, Baltimore County ADC map 41 H12
Date: 2005
Phone: 410-461-5005
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) head south on the Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295).
Merge onto highway 195 heading west towards Catonsville.
Take exit 3 onto Washington Boulevard (route 1) south.
After passing under highway 195, turn right onto South Street.
Make an immediate right onto Park Entrance Road.
Notes: Entrance fee.  While there are plenty of well known trails that travel northwest along the Patapsco River, there are also many that travel east along the river as well as many that travel southwest along highway 195 and the Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295).  Open from 0900 until sunset.

Side Entrance to Glen Artney area
Location: Arbutus, Baltimore County ADC map 41 G8
Date: March 12, 2006
Phone: 410-461-5005
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) head south on the Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295).
Merge onto highway 195 heading west towards Catonsville. Follow to the Park and Ride parking lot and park. If you come to Rolling Road (route 166), you've gone just a bit too far.
Notes: Just walk across Rolling Road (route 166) to the park. There are a few trails that lead southwest into the main area at Patapsco River. This is a good way to avoid the entrance fee. You can also park on the dirt area on the west side of Rolling Road. This area is very popular with mountain bikers to hikers should be attentive.

Woodstock
Location: Woodstock, Howard County ADC map 6 F11
Date:
Phone: 410-461-5005
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).  Stay on highway 70 for 9 miles
Take exit 83 to Marriottsville Road north (right).
Turn right (east) at Old Frederick Road (route 99).
Turn left (northeast) onto Woodstock Road.  Parking is on the left just before crossing over the Patapsco River into Baltimore County.
Notes: Several trails in either direction along the Patapsco River.

McKeldin Area
Location: Near the Carroll County/Howard County/Baltimore County border.  Howard County ADC map 6 D6
Date:
Phone: 410-461-5005
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).  Stay on highway 70 for 9 miles.
Take exit 83 to Marriottsville Road north (right).  Travel for 3 miles.  The park entrance is on the right.
Notes: This 1403 acre area may is known for its varied, steep, and wooded terrain, similar to the mountains of Western Maryland.  There are several short trails, the longest being the Switchback Trail at only 4 miles.  There are also plenty of longer trails just outside of the immediate McKeldin Area.  Open 0800 to sunset from Memorial Day to Labor Day.  During the rest of the year, the area is open from 1000 to sunset. Pets not allowed.

Hollofield Area
Location: Near Ellicott City, Howard County ADC map 12 H4
Date: December 29, 2007
Phone: 410-461-5005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 north (clockwise) to exit 15, Baltimore National Pike (route 40) west.  Follow for 2.5 miles, crossing over the Patapsco River.  Park exit is on both sides of route 40 shortly after crossing over the river.
Notes: This area has a scenic river valley overlook, picnic sites including rental pavilions, fishing and camping.  There are 73 campsites, some with electric hookups, a pet loop and a camp store.  The trail along the Patapsco River is on the (west) Howard County side north of route 40 and on the (east) Baltimore County side south of route 40. Special thanks to Norma for helping scout this area. Check out my December 29, 2007 hike in this area.

Hugg-Thomas Wildlife Management Area
Location: Near Sykesville, Howard County ADC map 5 A5
Date:
Phone: 410-461-5005
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 80 to Sykesville Road (route 32) north (right).
Turn left onto West Friendship Road (turns into Main Street) before crossing into Carroll County (before the railroad tracks).
Turn left onto Forsythe Road.  Parking is on the right.
Notes: The nature trail is open to hikers on Sundays from February 16 to August 31.   The trail has has few or no blazes.  Parking facilities can be accessed off Forsythe Road.

North End (near Freedom Park Recreation Area)
Location: Near Sykesville, Howard County ADC map 5 B6
Date:
Phone: 410-461-5005
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 80 to Sykesville Road (route 32) north (right).
Turn left onto West Friendship Road (turns into Main Street) before crossing into Carroll County (before the railroad tracks).
Turn right onto River Road.
Parking on the left after 0.6 miles, just after crossing over a small stream.
Notes: Several trails to the east on both sides of the river.

 
Patuxent Research Refuge
 
The 12,750 acre Patuxent Research Refuge is the nation’s only National Wildlife Refuge established to support wildlife research.

Patuxent Research Refuge
Friends of the Patuxent Research Refuge

The North Tract is comprised of 8100 acres that were at one time a military training area.  There are about 20 miles of trails for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding.

Visitor Contact Station
230 Bald Eagle Drive
Laurel, Maryland  20724-3000
Phone: 410-674-3304

North Tract
Location: Bald Eagle Drive, Laurel, Anne Arundel County ADC map 11 H5
Date: January 10, 2004
Phone: 410-674-4625
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take the Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295) south.
Take the Fort Meade Road (route 198) exit heading east towards Fort George G. Meade.  Drive for 1.4 miles.
Just before the softball field on the right, turn right onto Bald Eagle Road and follow to the end.
Notes: Open November through February 0800 to 1630, March 0800 to 1800, April through August 0800 to 2000, September 0800 to 1900, and October 0800 to 1830.  Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day, and on hunting days.  For more information on hunting in the refuge, call 301-317-3825 or 301-317-3819.  Visitors must check in at contact station.  Last visitor permit issued one half hour before closing.  This property is a former military installation and may contain unexploded munitions.  Report the discovery of munitions by calling 410-377-1335.

South Tract
Location: 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop, Laurel, Maryland 20708-4027, Prince George’s County ADC map 9 E4
Date: January 31, 2004
Phone: 301-497-5580, 301-497-5760
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take the Baltimore Washington Parkway (highway 295) south.
Take the Powder Mill Road exit turning left (east) onto Powder Mill Road.
Turn right (southeast) onto Scarlet Tanager Loop.  The National Wildlife Visitor Center will be on the right.
Notes: The Visitor Center is open daily (except Christmas) from 1000 to 1730.  A few short trails and a very nice visitor center with plenty of exhibits.

 
Patuxent River Park
 
The Patuxent River Park is comprised of more than 6,000 acres of natural area parklands along the eastern boundary of Prince George's County. Note the Patuxent River Park is different from Patuxent River State Park.

Jug Bay Natural Area
This park consists of over 1400 acres, 90% of which is forested. The Patuxent River Park, Jug Bay Natural Area is famous for its birdwatching.  More than 250 species of birds have been recorded there, with over 100 confirmed as nesting.

Location: Patuxent River Park, 16000 Croom Airport Road, Upper Marlboro 20772-8395, Prince George’s County ADC map 27 H11
Phone: 301-627-6074.  Also call this number for canoe rental and guided tours.
Date: April 15, 2007
Directions: From the Baltimore beltway (highway 695), take highway 97 south. Follow for 9.8 miles.
Take exit 7 to Crain Highway North (route 3) southwest.  Route 3 will eventually turn into Crain Highway South (route 301). Follow for 21 miles.
Turn left (east) on Croom Road (route 382). Follow for 1.5 miles.
Turn left (east) on Croom Airport Road. Some maps might show this as turning into Station Road. This is incorrect.
To get to the park office or Jackson’s Landing, turn left on Park Entrance Road (look for sign) and follow for 1.4 miles to end.
To get to Selby’s Landing boat ramp, continue on Croom Airport Road to the end, turn left and follow 0.9 miles to end.
Notes: Stop by the park office if you have not obtained a special use permit.  The park is open year round.  It opens at 0800 except for June, July, and August when it opens at 0700.  Closing time varies from 1630 in winter months to 1930 in summer months.  Pets and bicycles are not allowed on the boardwalk. Dogs must be on leash in the park office vicinity. The park has about 8 miles of trails, none of which are blazed. However, there are often markers at trail intersections.  About 65 minutes from Arbutus. Note that the Patuxent River Park, Jug Bay Natural Area is different from Patuxent River State Park.

A letter I received from the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission in January 2008 reads as follows:
As we move into 2008, there will be some policy changes as well as exciting new activities. The most important news is a policy change in reference to the park's "annual" permit. Starting in 2008, we will no longer require the $5 and $10 "special-use" permit to use the park. Over the years as the park has expanded it has become increasingly difficult to manage and enforce the permit policy. In the long run, we felt it was no longer cost effective and not the best way to serve the public. This will not affect the overall management philosophy of the park. We will still only permit those activities that protect the nature resources and preserve the scenic character of the river. The permit change, however, will not apply to those permit holders with boat trailers. The annual $25 permit will still be required to use all three boat ramps. For those permitees, your renewal will be mailed in early March. Please note that the parking limitation at all three ramps will still be in effect.

Camping
There are 5 sites in the group camp area (A-E) which are open year round.  Each site has at least one picnic table and a fire grate with some firewood provided.

Water is available at the white well building. This building has an outdoor cold water shower surrounded by wooden walls which provide limited privacy. Attached to this building is a water fountain and four water spigots.

The area also has a pavilion on the south side of the white well building that is shared by all campers. As of December 2006, this pavilion has 20 picnic tables, a few electrical outlets, and a tri-grill.

A barn is available for use during inclement weather, located on the east side of the pavilion. This barn has a basketball hoop on the outside west side. Inside are 13 picnic tables and several electrical outlets.

A December 2006 recon showed poles set in concrete in tires that appear to be net stands for volleyball.

Indoor restrooms are located in a white trailer just south of the barn. The men's side has two urinals and one toilet while the women's has three toilets.

Between the indoor restrooms and the barn are two horseshoe pits.

On the west side of the indoor restrooms is a trash dumpster.

As of 2004, the camping fee is $3 per person per night for residents and $4 for non-residents.

Campsite D is my favorite site because it has some tree cover that can also be used for hanging hammocks. This site is east of the barn and has a huge, open, grassy area to its north, ideal for throwing the frizbee. The southern side is wooded while the Critical Area Driving Tour (CADT) is to the east. This site is ideal for a very large group. Three picnic tables are present.

My second favorite site is site B which is west of the barn on a grassy hill. To the west of campsite B are woods. The hill offers a nice view of the area but no privacy from campsite A which is on the north side at a lower elevation. If reserving two campsites, selecting A and B would be ideal. Both A and B can support extremely large groups.

Campsite C is also good but better suited for a smaller group, perhaps 5 tents. It offers the most seclusion. It is south of campsite B and west of the barn. There are trees on three sides of campsite C. There is a dirt path that leads from campsite C to the pavillion. Sometimes the entrance to campsite C is quite muddy.

Campsite E is the most secluded and the furthest from the parking lot. Campsites C and E, while secluded, might also be more buggy during the summer since their tree cover might limit any breezes that keep insects away.

Call Butch at 301-627-6074 to make camping or canoe/kayak reservations. Camping reservations cannot be made until the year of the event. The camping fee is $3 per person per night for residents and $4 for non-residents.

Canoe camping: A separate canoe campground just 0.3 miles north of Selby’s Landing Boat Ramp is available for groups of 20 or less from April to October.  A dirt road connects the campground to the main road.  The campground has picnic tables, a fire pit, and firewood.  Selby’s Landing has a porta-john with hand sanitizer.  The site is accessible to water during mid to high tide.  There is no drinking water on site.  Water must be obtained at the well house located in the group camp area 0.9 miles away.

Park staff
As of 2007, Greg Lewis is the park director. Gail K. works at the front desk as of December 2006. Butch handles campground and canoe/kayak reservations.

Kayak and Canoe rental
Daily canoe rental is $12 for residents and $15 for non-residents.  Overnight canoe rental is $17 for residents and $20 for non-residents as of 2004. As of 2006, the park has 7 canoes (each can hold 2 adults) and 8 kayaks. Given advanced notice, it might be possible they can obtain more for an event.

The park offers a downriver canoe trip from Queen Anne Bridge to Jackson's Landing. They can take two people in their vehicles from the park office to the launch site. Others must provide their own transportation. The trip takes 5.5 hours and is 12 miles long. Must start by 0830. Try and time the trip with the passage from high to low tide.

Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Driving Tour (CADT)
This four mile road which connects Patuxent River Park with Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary is open for self-guided driving tours on Sundays from 1000 to 1500 throughout the year.  It is open for bicyclists and hikers daily from 1000 to 1500, January through September.  Access for hiking and biking is from either end while the driving tour must begin on the Patuxent River Park side.

The road starts at Selby’s Landing Boat Ramp.
At mile one, it comes to a small observation tower and a wooden bridge that crossed over Mattaponi Creek.
At mile 1.7, there will be a short trail on the left that leads to an approximately 60 foot tall observation tower.
At mile 2.7, there will be a short trail on the left that leads to a boardwalk.
On the right, at mile 2.7 will be a short trail that leads to a Catfish Pond. I find it reminiscent of the Pocomoke River because of the darkness of the water.
At mile 2.9 will Lookout Creek Trail, a trail less than a mile long that leads to Lookout Creek.
The total distance from Selby's Landing to the paved road at Merkle is 4 miles. Consider a combination bike/hike route where you bike along the CADT and stop to hike all the foot trails that branch from it. See Patuxent River Park to Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary Loop.

Rural Life Museums
From the visitors center, walk south for a short distance on a dirt trail to some small buildings. Here you will find a legacy of 19th century life featuring the W. Henry Duvall Tool Museum, the Tobacco Farming Museum, a log cabin, and a blacksmith and farrier shop. Open Saturday and Sundays April through October from 1300 to 1600. Park volunteers are available when open to answer questions.

7.3 or 8.1 mile route
Consider the following Patuxent River Park hike scouted by Saki, Norma, Lloyd, and Jennifer on December 2, 2006. The route marked in yellow is the first part of the trip to the lunch site while the part marked in orange is the return trip. See the route map.
Starting at the barn at the group campsite, head south on the dirt road near the toilet building. This road is wide enough for vehicles. This road will turn west then meet at waypoint 013.
Turn right (north) at waypoint 013 onto a dirt trail called Half Pone. The trail may become muddy at times.
Turn right (north) at waypoint 014 then head for a short distance to (waypoint) 015.
Croom Airport Road, a paved road, meets with 015. Turn left (northwest) at this road.
At 016, turn right (north) onto another dirt trail.
At 017, turn right (southeast) at a sign that reads "Environmentally Sensitive Area - Hikers Only." This means you shouldn't have to worry about stepping in horse crap. Note the scrap metal off to your right. Interestingly, the name of this trail is Lonesome Pine Horse Trail.
Waypoint 018 is a scenic overlook with a bench near some stairs. This is a great place for a break or at least a good stop to take some photos. The area is quite marshy. People who venture into the lowlands should be cautioned of deep mud.
After going down the stairs, then coming back up to the highlands, there will be a large metal object on the left that I like to call the "crashed UFO" at 019. Though I'm not certain, I believe this is a crashed aircraft that might have come from the old airfield about half a mile to the southeast.
At 021 (yes, I know I missed 020) turn left (east) on a paved road. Note that there is no sign at this end telling horses to stay out but there was such a sign at the other end.
After a very short distance, turn left (north) on the trail which should be marked by a red triangle at 022.
At 023 you will cross Swan Point Creek via boardwalk.
At 024 the trail becomes extremely muddy.
Make a right oblique (heading north) at 025. You will see some large machine off to the right. Not sure what it is but the best guess I've heard it a cement mixer. This part of the map has inadequate resolution and may be a bit misleading since there are so many trails that come together in this area.
After about 30 meters, turn right (east) at 026 to catch Chapman Hiking Trail. Pass through a gate after about 20 meters.
At 027, you will likely cross a flooded part of the trail. Walking on the south side seems easiest to get around.
The trail will come to a T at 028. From here, you will see Jug Bay straight ahead through the trees.
One option is to turn right (south), head to the end of the trail, then head back. There is a mildly scenic stream off to the west side and the trail is somewhat scenic at the turnaround point. Taking this route will add another 0.8 miles to the trip.
From 028, head north (left if 0.8 mile addition not taken) and continue. Note that the map enters a square. See the Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area to enlarge this section.
At 029 there will be a sign that reads "No dogs, bicycles, or horses permitted in the Nature Study Area." Turn right (northeast) at this sign.
After 5 meters, turn right (south). The trail will turn counterclockwise and head downhill to the water.
At 030, turn right (east) on the boardwalk and continue to the Observation Blind. This is a good stop for a break and to take photos.
Return from the Observation Blind to 030 then head right (north) along the water.
At 031 the trail splits but this split may be barely noticeable on the left. Take the right side which leads along the water on the boardwalk. As you walk on the boardwalk, look to the left and see if you can find the knees of the Cypress Trees.
At 032, the boardwalk will split. Take the right side (north). Cross over Black Walnut Creek.
At 033 you will be at the parking lot for Jackson's Landing Boat Ramp. There will be two porta-johns on the right (east). Continue north.
At 034 you will be at Jackson's Landing. Turn left (west) and head up the stairs.
At 035 there will be a house, two benches, and five picnic tables. There will also be a nice a bird viewing telescope. This is a great place to have lunch and take photos. Note that there are restrooms just west of the house. People can explore the park office and meet back at the tables at a designated time. By now, you should have walked about 4.2 miles or 5.0 miles if the 0.8 mile additional option was taken.
Now the route is highlighted in orange. Head northwest towards the Visitors Center.
At the Visitors Center (036), head southwest on a driveable road that leads downhill.
At 037, you will be at Patuxent Rural Life Museums. In this area is the Duvall Tool Museum. There will be a picnic table and a village bell. Be sure to ring the bell.
The trail picks up again at the south side of the museum area at 038, heading south.
On the map, the trail is supposed to come to a T but it appears to only head right (west). Follow the trail on the boardwalk counterclockwise.
At 039, there will be a staircase. Turn right (south) at the staircase and head up to the Observation Platform on the west side. Stop for a view of the area then continue heading uphill from the Observation Platform.
At 040, the trail will come to a T. Turn right (west), eventually leaving the Nature Study Area.
At 041, the trail will come to a T. Turn right (west), now overlapping with the yellow route. You are now on Chapman Hiking Trail.
At 026, turn left. This is where things get confusing. At 025, head right which will lead downhill as the orange and yellow routes now seperate.
At 042 there will be a marker indicating the trail splits. The trail off to the right will be very faint. Stay on the main trail on the left, continuing to head downhill (south).
At 043, cross a wooden bridge over Swan Point Creek.
At 017, the trail will split. Take the right side heading south.
Come back to Croom Airport Road at 016.
Cross straight across Croom Airport Road to continue on the trail heading south.
At 044, turn left (east) to get back to Half Pone. Connect back with 014 then turn right (southeast).
At 013/045, turn left on the dirt road wide enough for a vehicle, heading east.
At 046 the trail heads left (north) and passes campsite C on the right. Continuing just past campsite C there will be a small dirt shortcut back to the pavilion. Take this back to the start.
By the time you are done, you should have completed about 7.3 miles or 8.1 miles if the optional 0.8 addtion was completed.

4.8 or 5.6 mile route
Consider the following Patuxent River Park hike scouted by Saki, Norma, Lisa, and Claudia on February 14, 2007.
For maps, download Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area and route map. The route marked in orange is the first part of the trip while the part marked in yellow is the return trip.
Start at 036, the Visitors Center on the Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area map.
Head southwest on a driveable road that leads downhill.
At 037, you will be at Patuxent Rural Life Museums. In this area is the Duvall Tool Museum. There will be a picnic table and a village bell. Be sure to ring the bell.
The trail picks up again at the south side of the museum area at 038, heading south.
On the map, the trail is supposed to come to a T but it appears to only head right (west). Follow the trail on the boardwalk counterclockwise.
At 039, there will be a staircase. Turn right (south) at the staircase and head up to the Observation Platform on the west side. Stop for a view of the area then continue heading uphill from the Observation Platform.
At 040, the trail will come to a T. Turn right (west), eventually leaving the Nature Study Area.
See the other map for a lower resolution view of the trails.
At 041, the trail will come to a T. Turn right (west), now overlapping with the yellow route.
At 026, turn left. This is where things get confusing. You will see some large machine off to the right. Not sure what it is but the best guess I've heard it a cement mixer. This part of the map has inadequate resolution and may be a bit misleading since there are so many trails that come together in this area.
A stones throw from the machine, at 025, head right which will lead downhill as the orange and yellow routes now seperate.
At 042 there will be a marker indicating the trail splits. The trail off to the right will be very faint. Stay on the main trail on the left, continuing to head downhill (south).
At 043, cross a wooden bridge over Swan Point Creek.
At 017, the trail will split. Take the left side heading east. NOTE THAT THE PARTS SOUTH OF 017 ON THE MAP ARE NOT USED FOR THIS HIKE.
You should see a sign that reads "Environmentally Sensitive Area - Hikers Only." This means you shouldn't have to worry about stepping in horse crap. Note the scrap metal off to your right. Interestingly, the name of this trail is Lonesome Pine Horse Trail.
Waypoint 018 is a scenic overlook with a bench near some stairs. This is a great place for a break or at least a good stop to take some photos. The area is quite marshy. People who venture into the lowlands should be cautioned of deep mud.
After going down the stairs, then coming back up to the highlands, there will be a large metal object on the left that I like to call the "crashed UFO" at 019. Though I'm not certain, I believe this is a crashed aircraft that might have come from the old airfield about half a mile to the southeast.
At 021 (yes, I know I missed 020) turn left (east) on a paved road. Note that there is no sign at this end telling horses to stay out but there was such a sign at the other end.
After a very short distance, turn left (north) on the trail which should be marked by a red triangle at 022.
At 023 you will cross Swan Point Creek via boardwalk.
At 024 the trail becomes extremely muddy.
Make a right oblique (heading north) at 025. You will again see the large machine off to the right.
After about 30 meters, turn right (east) at 026. Pass through a gate after about 20 meters.
At 027, you will likely cross a flooded part of the trail. Walking on the south side seems easiest to get around.
The trail will come to a T at 028. From here, you will see Jug Bay straight ahead through the trees.
One option is to turn right (south), head to the end of the trail, then head back. There is a mildly scenic stream off to the west side and the trail is somewhat scenic at the turnaround point. Taking this route will add another 0.8 miles to the trip.
From 028, head north (left if 0.8 mile addition not taken) and continue.
Switch to the Black Walnut Creek Nature Study Area map.
At 029 there will be a sign that reads "No dogs, bicycles, or horses permitted in the Nature Study Area." Turn right (northeast) at this sign.
After 5 meters, turn right (south). The trail will turn counterclockwise and head downhill to the water.
At 030, turn right (east) on the boardwalk and continue to the Observation Blind. This is a good stop for a break and to take photos.
Return from the Observation Blind to 030 then head right (north) along the water.
At 031 the trail splits but this split may be barely noticeable on the left. Take the right side which leads along the water on the boardwalk. As you walk on the boardwalk, look to the left and see if you can find the knees of the Cypress Trees.
At 032, the boardwalk will split. Take the right side (north). Cross over Black Walnut Creek.
At 033 you will be at the parking lot for Jackson's Landing Boat Ramp. There will be two porta-johns on the right (east). Continue north.
At 034 you will be at Jackson's Landing. Turn left (west) and head up the stairs.
At 035 there will be a house, two benches, and five picnic tables. There will also be a nice a bird viewing telescope. This is a great place to have lunch and take photos. By now, you should have walked about 4.8 miles or 5.6 miles if the 0.8 mile additional option was taken.

 
Pine Creek  

As of 2009, the Pine Creek Rail Trail is 63.4 miles. While the trail is spectacular, be sure to make time for exploring the multitude of neighboring trails. In the springtime, consider kayaking, rafting, or tubing down the creek.

I highly recommend sticking to the major roads. Just because you see a road on your map doesn't mean it will easily take you where you want to go.

Big Meadows Canoe Access Area - Ansonia

Robert McCullough Jr. Pine Creek Access - Blackwell

North End: Wellsboro Junction
Location: Butler Road, Wellsboro, Tioga County, Pennsylvania
Date: October 11, 2009
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 clockwise (north).
Take exit 24 to highway 83 (Harrisburg Expressway) north. Cross into Pennsylvania. Follow for 73.3 miles.
Take exit 51A to highway 81 south/highway 322 west towards Carlisle/Lewistown. Make sure you take this exit and not any before. Follow for 2.4 miles.
Take exit 67B-A to highway 22 west/highway 322 west towards Lewistown/State College. Follow for 13.3 miles.
Merge onto highway 15 north towards Selingrove/Williamsport. Follow for 70.7 miles.
Take exit 29 to remain on highway 15 north, heading towards Mansfield. Continue for 27.3 miles.
Take the route 414 exit towards Morris/Liberty, turning left (west) onto route 414. Follow for 9.8 miles.
Route 414 will become route 287 north. Continue for another 14.9 miles.
After route 6 splits from route 287, take the next paved road on the left, Marsh Creek Road, heading west. This is directly across from Muck Road.
After 100 meters, turn left (south) on Butler Road. Follow for 220 meters. Look for parking on the right (west).
Notes: As of 2009, this is the northernmost end of the rail trail. Parking for about 15 vehicles. About 4 hours and 37 minutes from Hanover, Maryland. Porta-john available. Pine Creek flows downstream from this area. Thus, if you plan on biking the entire rail trail, it is recommended to start at this end. For more information see Pine Creek Gorge and my trip report from October 10-12, 2009.

Ramsey Village
Location: Intersection of Ramsey Drive and Route 44 in Jersey Shore, Lycoming County, Pennsylvania
Date: February 15, 2009
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 clockwise (north).
Take exit 24 to highway 83 (Harrisburg Expressway) north. Cross into Pennsylvania. Follow for 73.3 miles.
Take exit 51A to highway 81 south/highway 322 west towards Carlisle/Lewistown. Make sure you take this exit and not any before. Follow for 2.4 miles.
Take exit 67B-A to highway 22 west/highway 322 west towards Lewistown/State College. Follow for 13.3 miles.
Merge onto highway 15 north towards Selingrove/Williamsport. Follow for 68.7 miles.
Take the ramp on the left to highway 220 south toward Lock Haven/Mansfield. Follow for 16.6 miles.
Take the route 44 north exit towards Pine Creek/Waterville. Follow for 7.9 miles.
Look for parking on the left at or near Ramsey Drive in Jersey Shore.
Notes: Parking for 4 vehicles. About 4 hours from Hanover, Maryland. No restroom at lot but there is about a third of a mile across the bridge on the other side of Pine Creek. There is additional parking in small dirt lots just south of Ramsey Drive. For more information see Pine Creek Gorge and my trip reports, February 15, 2009 and July 3-5, 2009.

South End: Jersey Shore
Location: Intersection of Railroad Street and Humes Street in Jersey Shore, Lycoming County, Pennsylvania
Date: October 11, 2009
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 clockwise (north).
Take exit 24 to highway 83 (Harrisburg Expressway) north. Cross into Pennsylvania. Follow for 73.3 miles.
Take exit 51A to highway 81 south/highway 322 west towards Carlisle/Lewistown. Make sure you take this exit and not any before. Follow for 2.4 miles.
Take exit 67B-A to highway 22 west/highway 322 west towards Lewistown/State College. Follow for 13.3 miles.
Merge onto highway 15 north towards Selingrove/Williamsport. Follow for 68.7 miles.
Take the ramp on the left to highway 220 south toward Lock Haven/Mansfield. Follow for 15.2 miles.
Take the Thomas Street exit, turning left (south) and following for 0.2 miles.
Turn right (west) onto Railroad Street. Follow for 0.2 miles.
In 175 meters, turn left (south) into the parking lot across from Humes Street.
Notes: As of 2009, this is the southernmost end of the rail trail. Parking for about 40 vehicles. About 3 hours and 50 minutes from Hanover, Maryland. Restroom available. For more information see Pine Creek Gorge and my trip report from October 10-12, 2009.

Useful links:
PA Rails to Trails - Pine Creek
Pine Creek Gorge
Pine Creek Rail Trail
Pine Creek Valley
Rail Trail Map
Springtime on the Rail Trail
Trails.com - Pine Creek Rail Trail

The rail trail area is comprised of the following state parks:
Colton Point State Park
Leonard Harrison State Park
Little Pine State Park
Tiadaghton State Forest
Tioga State Forest
Upper Pine Bottom State Park

Also consider visiting
Cherry Springs State Park
Crystal Lake Ski Center
Lyman Run State Park
Pennsylvania Grand Canyon - Pine Creek Gorge
Wellsboro Area - Pennsylvania Grand Canyon

The best part of the rail trail is called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. Pine Creek Outfitters in Anacostia runs rafting, canoeing, bike and hike shuttles. The West Rim Trail is the much talked about backpacking trail in the area. One can find a nice day hike at Bee Tree Ski Trail if you can find the trails and are willing to do a little bushwhacking.

 
Poplar Lick Trail
 
Location: Savage River State Forest, Garrett County ADC map Y10
Date: May 25, 2008
Phone:
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 clockwise.
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west.
After 91 miles, take exit 1A on the left to highway 68 west, towards Cumberland.
Take exit 22 and follow to Chestnut Ridge Road south to New Germany Road.
Turn left onto New Germany Road and continue south.
Drive for about 3.5 miles. There will be a dirt lot on the left after Otto Lane and before Fairview Road.
Notes: Parking for about 12 vehicles. No restroom. This is a yo-yo hike, 6 miles each way. There are drive-in campsites and several stream crossings along the way. Lots of off road vehicles. Not particularly good for hiking as there is quite a bit of traffic. Special thanks to Norma to introducing me to this trail. For a trip report, see May 25, 2008.

 
Potomac-Garrett State Forest
 
The Potomac-Garrett State Forest is located in southern Garrett County. It conists of over 19,000 acres. The forest features the highest point in any Maryland state forest -- Backbone Mountain, elevation 3220 feet. Over 30 miles of hiking trails are located within the forest. Thirty six undeveloped campsites are available on a first come basis. Sites for groups of 8 to 25 can be reserved by calling the forest headquarters. Pets are allowed in all areas of the forest.
- from Potomac-Garrett State Forest flyer

Location: Between the towns of Oakland and Westernport and partially bordering the Potomac River. See Garrett County ADC map S31
Date: March 25, 2007
Phone: 301-334-2038
Directions: Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 clockwise.
Take exit 16 to highway 70 west.
After 91 miles, take exit 1A on the left to highway 68 west, towards Cumberland.
Take exit 22 and follow to Chestnut Ridge Road south to New Germany Road.
Turn left (south) onto New Germany Road. Follow for 9.7 miles.
Turn slight left (southwest) onto Bittinger Road (route 495). Follow for 7.4 miles.
Turn right (west) onto Swanton Road to stay on route 495. Follow for 3.2 miles.
Turn left (south) onto Maryland Highway (route 135). Follow for about 6 miles to the town of Deer Park.
Turn left (south) on Main Street. The road will change to Boiling Spring Road. Follow for about 3.25 miles.
Turn right (south) on Eagle Rock Road. Follow for about a mile.
Turn left (southeast) on Bethlehem Road. Follow for 1.4 miles.
Turn left (west) on Combination Road. Follow for a half mile.
Turn left (north) on Potomac Camp Road. Follow for 0.4 miles to the headquarters building where you can pick up a map.
To reach the scenic Potomac River Overlook, continue on Potomac Camp Road for another half mile.
Turn right (east) on Lost Land Run Road which is or at least will turn into a dirt road. You may want to avoid this road during heavy rains unless you have a four wheel drive vehicle. There are several campsites and picnic areas along the way. Follow to the end (about 3 miles) where there will be a dirt lot.
Notes: No restroom. 3.5-4 hours from Baltimore or Washington D.C. Special thanks to Norma for introducing me to this area. For a description of our trip to Potomac State Forest, see March 25, 2007.

 
Rachel Carson Greenway and Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park Trails
 
This little gem is great for a short winter hike, an easy trail run, or a dog walk. Places like this are one reason Montgomery County real estate is so valuable.

Location: Montgomery County ADC map 37 D3
Date: January 4, 2009
Phone: 301-625-7207
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 30 to Colesville Road (route 29) heading north. You might need to head south on route 29 then make a U-turn when you can. From the beltway, drive one mile north on route 29.
Look on the left for the lot after you pass Crestmoor Drive. If you come to Hillwood Drive then you've gone too far. The parking lot is on the northwest side of route 29, about 175 meters south of Hillwood Drive but north of Crestmoor Drive.
Notes: No restroom. Parking for about 20 vehicles. Special thanks to Betty S. for introducing me to this place. Check out my trip report at January 4, 2009.

Trail Maps of Northwest Branch
Rachel Carson Greenway and Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park Trails

 
Potomac Heritage Trail
 
The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (PHT) was designated part of the National System by Congress in 1983.  The Potomac Heritage Trail Association is working to complete the proposed 704-mile trail which will trace features of the Potomac River Basin in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia.  Parts of the PHT are maintained by Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.  There are many streams which are crossed by stepping on rocks which can be icy in the winter and muddy year round. 

Potomac Heritage Trail

Fort Marcy Park
Location: George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia, Metro Washington, D.C. ADC map 8 F8
Date: February 14, 2004
Phone: 703-289-2500
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.
Just after crossing into Virginia, take exit 43 east to George Washington Memorial Parkway.
After passing Ronald Reagan (Washington) National Airport, turn left onto Marina Drive at Daingerfield Island.  Then head north on George Washington Memorial Parkway.
After passing Chain Bridge, turn right into Fort Marcy.  Slow down quickly upon seeing the Fort Marcy sign as there is little warning.  Likewise, when leaving the park, speed up quickly as there is little room to merge.
Notes: No restrooms.  No access to park from George Washington Memorial Parkway heading southeast.  Potomac Heritage Trail has blue blazes. I have heard from a reliable source that some parts are not well maintained.

41st Street North
Location: George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia, Metro Washington, D.C. ADC map 8 F8
Date: November 27, 2005
Phone: 703-289-2500
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.
Just after crossing into Virginia, take exit 43 east to George Washington Memorial Parkway.
Take the Chain Bridge (route 123) exit heading southeast (left). Follow to the T.
Turn right (west).
Under the George Washington Memorial Parkway, North Glebe Road and 41st Street North will intersect. Park on 41st Street North.
Notes: No restroom. Phone available. Parking for about 8 vehicles. There is also parking for about 3 vehicles just west of the Potomac River on the north side of Chain Bridge by the "Welcome to Virginia" sign. Special thanks to Susanita for helping scout this area.

Theodore Roosevelt Island
Location: George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia, Metro Washington, D.C. ADC map 15 E1
Date: November 27, 2005
Phone: 703-289-2500
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.
Just after crossing into Virginia, take exit 43 east to George Washington Memorial Parkway.
After passing Ronald Reagan (Washington) National Airport, turn left onto Marina Drive at Daingerfield Island.  Then head north on George Washington Memorial Parkway.
After passing Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Bridge but before coming to Francis Scott Key Memorial Bridge, turn right into the parking lot for Theodore Roosevelt Island.
Notes: The northernmost side of the parking lot provides access to the southernmost side of the Potomac Heritage Trail.  Look for the blue blazes.  The southern side has a bridge that connects to Theodore Roosevelt Island.  The bridge closes at dusk.  The island has a few short trails.  Restroom available on the south end of the island. 55 minute drive from Elkridge. A real nice 9.2 mile circuit hike is to head north on the Potomac Heritage Trail, cross over Chain Bridge, head south on the C&O Towpath or Capital Crescent Trail, then cross over the Key Bridge to return to the start. Special thanks to Susanita for helping explore this loop.

Turkey Run Park
Location: George Washington Memorial Parkway, McLean, Virginia, Metro Washington, D.C. ADC map 8 B2
Date:
Phone: 703-289-2500
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.
Just after crossing into Virginia, take exit 43 east to George Washington Memorial Parkway.
Take the exit with the sign for Turkey Run Park.
Notes: Restrooms and water refilling stations available.  Northeast is the Potomac River.  Trails are as follows: Potomac Heritage Trail has blue blazes, Turkey Run Loop has yellow blazes, and Woods Trail has red blazes.

 
Robert E. Lee Memorial Park
 
This is a dog-friendly park on over 450 acres. It offers miles of trails for hiking and jogging with one trail going around Lake Roland.

Location: Falls Road and Lake Side Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21217. Baltimore County ADC map 26 H10
Date: March 25, 2006
Phone: 410-396-7931
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 clockwise.
Take exit 23A to highway 83, heading south towards Baltimore.
Take exit 10A east onto Northern Parkway, turning left at the light.
Turn left (north) onto Falls Road (route 25).
Take Falls Road about 0.7 miles to the intersection with Lake Avenue.
Continue on Falls Road one block and turn right before the bridge.
Make an immediate left onto Lakeside Drive.
Notes: Park along the side of the road. Walk across the foot bridge to access trails. The park is closed from dusk to dawn.

 
Rocky Gap State Park
 
Location: 12500 Pleasant Valley Road, Flintstone, Maryland 21530. Allegany County ADC Map EE3
Date: October 1, 2006
Phone: 301-722-1480, 301-777-2139, 1-800-825-PARK (24 hour park watch)
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 highway 68 (not route 68) west to exit 50.
The park headquarters is located on the right.
Notes: The easy Lakeside Loop Trail goes around Lake Habeeb. Canyon Overlook Nature Trail has a nice overlook. Evitt's Mountain Homeside Trail has a 1200 foot climb from the lake. The incline is gradual over a long distance. It ends at the Mason Dixon Line.

The campsites at the park are well maintained. There are warm showers and a camp store. At night, campers must have a gate combination to enter the park.

Quiet hours are from 2300 to 0700. Check out time is 1500. Pets must be leashed at all times.

The park office is open 0800-1630 Saturday through Thursday and 0800-2030 Friday.

The 243 acre Lake Habeeb was dedicated in 1976 after a dam was constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers in 1970. The lake was named in honor of Edward Habeeb who inspired the creation of the park. Like all lakes in Maryland, Lake Habeeb is not natural. The average depth is 30 feet with some areas as deep as 90 feet.

A spillway was built by cutting through sedimentary rock. Various types of marine fossils were discovered at the park including those of the trilobite, indicating that an inland ocean once existed at the park.

There is an aviary near the Rocky Gap Lodge. Raptors are housed for the Scales and Tales program. These birds have been injured/hand raised and cannot survive in the wild. As of October 1, 2006, this aviary is only open to the public Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 1600 to 1700. For more information, see
     Rocky Gap State Park

 
Shenandoah National Park
 
The American Indian translation for Shenandoah is "daughter of the stars." Shenandoah National Park contains 300 square miles of a 70 mile stretch of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia.  The main artery to all park facilities if the Skyline Drive.  This road follows a 105 mile sinuous course, near the crest of the mountains, for the entire length of the park.  For hikers, the park offers 500 miles of blazed, maintained trails.  There are also variety of tourist activities in the area including a few commercial caverns.

There are 4 entrances to the park:
Front Royal: North side, mile 0.6. Reachable via route 340 and highway 55.
Thornton Gap: Mile 31.5. Reachable via route 211.
Swift Run Gap: Mile 65.7. Reachable via route 33.
Rockfish Gap: South side, mile 105.4. Reachable via interstate 64 and route 250.

There are 3 visitor centers:
Dickey Ridge: Mile 4.6. Located 4 miles south of the Front Royal Entrance.
Harry F. Byrd, Senior: Mile 51.
Loft Mountain: Mile 79.5. Located directly across from Loft Mountain Wayside.

Trail blazes:
White: Appalachian Trail.
Yellow: Hikers and horseback riders only.
Blue: Hikers only.
Red orange: Park boundary.
Unblazed: Nature trail for hikers only.

Special areas:
Matthews Arm Trail, Overall Run Trail, and Beecher-Overall Trail: Good Swimming hole.
Old Rag Mountain: One of the more popular day hikes (may be overcrowded). Strenuous.
White Oak Canyon, Limberlost, Crescent Rock Trail, and Cedar Run Trail: Strenuous.
Mill Prong Trail: Rapidan Camp.
Jones Run Trail: Water falls.
Wildcat Ridge Trail and Riprap Trail: Good camping and swimming.

Backcountry Camping (roughing it)
Camping (not roughing it)
Shenandoah National Park 1
Shenandoah National Park 2
Shenandoah National Park Hiking Page: Rates difficulty of hikes.
Shenandoah National Parks Association
Shenandoah National Park Map

North Entrance
Location: 3655 US Highway 211 East, Luray, Virginia 22835
Date: May 7, 2006
Phone: 540-999-3500, 540-999-3582 (call for maps), 800-732-0911 (for emergencies)

Directions (option 1): 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.
Turn left (south) onto Skyline Drive.

Directions (option 2): 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 13 to route 55 west fro Front Royal (second exit for Shenandoah National Park).
Turn left (south) onto route 340/55.
Turn left (south) onto Skyline Drive.

Notes: Skyline Drive connects to the northernmost section of the Shenandoah National Forest. Driving time about 2.25 hours from Elkridge.  Visitor’s center on the right shortly after entrance.  Restrooms and shop available.  Compton Gap just after the 10 mile marker, parking lot on left. As of 2006, the entrance fee is fifteen dollars per vehicle. Entrance permit is good for 7 days.

Old Rag
Date: June 3, 2006
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
At the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495), turn right (west) to head counterclockwise.
Take exit 49 to highway 66 west.
In Gainesville, take the exit for Lee Highway (route 29) heading west towards Warrenton. Note that route 29 crosses highway 66 twice. Take exit 43, not 52.
In Warrenton, take route 211 west to Sperryville. Route 211 will merge with route 522. Stay on route 522 (Zachary Taylor highway) south.
Turn right (southwest) on route 231 (Fort Valley Road) just after Sperryville. Head towards Madison.
Turn right at the sign for Old Rag on route 601 (Peola Mills Road). Follow for several miles, along Hughes River. This road will merge with route 707.
At Nethers, the road will split. On the right will be Pine Hill Road. On the left will be route 600. Follow route 600.
The main parking lot will be on the left.
Notes: Driving time about 2.5 hours from Elkridge in very light traffic. The main parking lot holds about 100 vehicles. Porta-john available. As of June 2006, there is an eight dollar per person fee that must be paid at the shack in the main parking lot. Be sure to hold onto your receipts if you need to get into the park later. There is also small parking lot for 12 vehicles at the trailhead, 0.8 miles to the west. Porta-john at the trailhead lot too. At the trailhead, there Weakley Hollow Fire Road on the right (yellow blazed) and Ridge Trail (the main trail, blue blazed) on the left. Take the latter and return on the former for a challenging 7.2 mile loop hike. On Weakley Hollow Fire Road, horses have the right-of-way. Camping is prohibited above 2800 feet on Old Rag. Lots of fun rock hopping near the top of Old Rag. This is without a doubt my favorite hike in the area. If you want rock hopping without having to hike uphill to get there, check out the Billy Goat Trail, or as I like to call it, the William E. Goat Trail.

Old Rag info:
Geology of Old Rag
Old Rag Map
Summit Post - Old Rag

On the return trip, consider eating at
     Frost Diner
     55 Broadview Avenue (route 17)
     Warrenton, Virginia 20186
     Phone: 540-347-3047
Good food at a low price. Just north of the route 17 and route 211 intersection in Warrenton.
     China Jade
     375 West Shirley Avenue
     Warrenton, Virginia 20186
     Phone: 540-349-1382
The fastest service I've ever seen at a sit down restaurant.

Thornton Gap
Date: July 8, 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.
In Gainesville, take the exit for Lee Highway (route 29) heading west towards Warrenton. Note that route 29 crosses highway 66 twice. Take exit 43, not 52.
In Warrenton, take route 211 west towards Sperrysville. Continue on route 211 which will take you to the Thornton Gap Entrance.
Notes: About 2.5 hours from Elkridge. This entrance is at about mile 31.6 on Skyline Drive. From this entrance, one can head south to mile 51 to reach Big Meadows. Heading further south near mile 57.6, one can access the Lewis Mountain Trail.

Little Devil Stairs
Date: May 14, 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.
In Gainesville, take the exit for Lee Highway (route 29) heading west towards Warrenton. Note that route 29 crosses highway 66 twice. Take exit 43, not 52.
In Warrenton, take route 211 west towards Sperrysville.
Approximately 3 miles after passing by exits for Washington, Virginia, turn right (west) onto route 622 at Rediviva.
Follow route 622 and cross a bridge over the Covington River.
Turn left, southwest, onto route 614 (a dirt road) and follow to the end at the parking for Little Devil Stairs.
Notes: No restrooms. Parking for about 8 vehicles. Honor system pay at the trailhead. Be sure to bring small bills. Head north to access Little Devil Stairs. About 2.5 hours from Elkridge.

There is quite a bit to do in the Shenandoah area:
Endless Caverns
The Garden Maze
Lurray Caverns
Shenandoah Caverns

 
Sligo Creek Trail
 
The 10.2 mile Sligo Creek Trail begins in Prince Georges County at the Northwest Branch Trail and runs north into Montgomery County to Wheaton Regional Park. The trail is paved and runs along a good bit of the Sligo Creek Parkway.

Detailed map
Friends of Sligo Creek
Maryland Running Guide - Sligo Creek Trail
MNCPPC: Sligo Creek Trail

Sligo Creek Parkway is closed from Old Carroll Road to Piney Branch Road every Sunday, March through November from 0900 to 1800 and December through February from 0900-1600.
Special thanks to Susanita for helping explore this trail.
Phone: 301-650-2600 (park manager), 301-949-3010 (emergency only)

Heather
Location: Sligo Creek Parkway and Heather Avenue, Montgomery County ADC map 37 F12
Date: November 24, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495), heading counterclockwise (west).
Take exit 28 to New Hampshire Avenue (route 650) south. Pass University Boulevard (route 193).
Turn right (west) onto Sligo Creek Parkway.
Look for a dirt parking lot on the right (west) side of the road near Heather Avenue and a small bridge.
Notes: Parking for 7 vehicles. Porta-john and picnic table available. This location is only about 0.7 miles north of the southernmost end of the trail.

Hilltop and Geneva
Location: Hilltop Road and Geneva Avenue, Montgomery County ADC map 37 D11
Date: November 24, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495), heading counterclockwise (west).
Take exit 28 to New Hampshire Avenue (route 650) south. Pass University Boulevard (route 193).
Turn right (west) onto Sligo Creek Parkway. The road will veer to the right to cross over Sligo Creek at Maple Avenue. Instead, continue straight. The road will turn into Hilltop Avenue.
Notes: Parking for 4 vehicles. Please note above that Sligo Creek Parkway is closed on some Sundays and alter your route accordingly or choose one of the other locations if there is a conflict.

Kennebec
Location: Sligo Creek Parkway and Kennebec Avenue, Montgomery County ADC map 37 D11
Date: November 24, 2005
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 south.
Take the Washington D.C. beltway (highway 495), heading counterclockwise (west).
Take exit 28 to New Hampshire Avenue (route 650) south.
Veer right (west) onto Piney Branch Road (route 320).
Veer left (south) onto Carroll Avenue.
Turn right (north) onto Flower Avenue (route 789).
Turn left (west) onto Kennebec Avenue and follow to end.
Notes: Parking for 12 vehicles.

 
Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area
 
Soldiers Delight spans 1900 acres of serpentine barren. There are 7 miles of marked hiking trails. Bicyclists and horses are not permitted. Because Soldiers Delight is an ecological restoration area, dogs must be kept on leash and going off the trail is strongly discouraged. Much of the trail is exposed, so it is a good idea to have plenty of water and wear a hat and sunscreen to avoid sunburn. This area was once used for chromite mining.

Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area
Soldiers Delight Trail Guide

Location: 5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills, Maryland 21117
Date: June 11, 2005
Phone: 410-922-3044
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 695 clockwise.
Take exit 18B west on Liberty Road (route 26) towards Randallstown. Go 4.9 miles. Pass a tall water tower.
At a shorter water tower, turn right onto Deer Park Road. You'll come to a four-way stop. 1.5 miles after the stop is the driveway to the visitor center on the left.
Notes: Restrooms and nature displays at the visitors center. 8.5 miles of trails. Trails open 0900 to sunset. While the trails are mostly flat, they are also rocky so wear shoes with good solid soles. No entrance fee. Visitors Center open Wednesday through Friday 0900-1600 and weekends 1000-1600.

 
Sugarloaf Mountain
 
Sugarloaf Mountain is privately owned, yet open to the public for hiking and recreation.  Geologically, Sugarloaf is known as a monadnock, a mountain that remains after the erosion of the surrounding land.  At Sugarloaf, that process took approximately 14 million years.  At an elevation of 1282 feet, Sugarloaf stands more than 800 feet above the farmland below.  The rugged cliffs on the summit are composed primarily of quartzite, the predominant type of rock on the mountain.

There are a complex of blazed trails that lead to the peak.  Depending on the distance you wish to cover, you can start the hike at various places on the mountain.  There are parking spots at various points up the slope.  Note that driving on the mountain is one way only and if you start driving up the mountain, you will need to drive all the way up and all the way down, then turn left on the main road to get back where you started.

The mountain contains the following trails

• A.M. Thomas (green): Ascends a quarter mile from West View on stone steps laid by Thomas, Stronghold's first superintendent.
• Sunrise (orange): Steep.  It goes up from East View, reaching the summit in a quarter mile.
• Monadnock (red): Only a quarter mile and steep in spots.
• Northern Peaks (blue): Five miles long on the north side.  This trail leads into the relatively lightly-used northern hinterland.  An area called White Rocks provides an excellent vantage point along this trail.
• Mountain Loop (white): Can be reached via the Northern Peaks Trail, or indirectly from parking areas and road crossings.
• Saddleback Horse Trail (color?): Rings the entire mountain and can be hiked as a 7-mile loop.

Sugarloaf Mountain 1
Sugarloaf Mountain 2

Location: Frederick County ADC map 45 H8
Date: January 4, 2004
Phone: 301-874-2024 or 301-869-7846
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, but the sign says south) at end of ramp. Follow for 2.8 miles. This light may take a VERY long time to change to green.
Turn right at Comus Road (route 95).  Drive 2.4 miles to the Stronghold entrance at the corner of Sugarloaf Mountain Road and Comus Road.
Notes: No permits required and there is no entry fee.  There are no campsites on the mountain, and all hikers must be off the mountain by sunset.  The required departure time is scrawled on a chalkboard inside an interpretive case at each parking area.  Food nearby at the Comus Inn at the corner of Old Hundred Road (route 109) and Comus Road (route 95).  About a 65 minute drive from Arbutus.  Limited parking at the base of the mountain but there are much larger lots closer to the top of the mountain.  Several porta-johns and picnic tables at various levels up the mountain. Bicycles are not permitted on the mountain. Dogs must be on leash though you can probably get by with a well behaved dog off leash away from the roads.

For a trip report of an 8 mile hike, see November 25, 2007.

 
Susquehanna State Park
 
Susquehanna State Park is known for its heavy forest cover and massive rock outcroppings.  It offers a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities and is home to some of the most popular mountain biking trails in Maryland.  The park also contains a very family friendly campground with traditional campsites and cabins.  History buffs will be drawn to

• the restored Rock Run Historical Area with its working grist mill
• Archer Mansion
• Jersey Toll House
• the remains of the Susquehanna Tidewater Canal

Harve de Grace
Susquehanna State Park
Susquehanna History

Location: Susquehanna State Park, Harford County ADC map 13 F8
Directions: From where the Baltimore beltway (highway 695) and highway 95 meet, take highway 95 northeast through the Fort McHenry Tunnel.  Follow for about 41 miles.
Take the Level Road (route 155) exit (route 89) northwest.
Turn right (north) on Darlington Road (route 161).
Turn right (northeast) onto Rock Run Road.
Notes: Parking along Rock Run Road and Stafford Road which is at the end of Rock Run Road.  The park has over 15 miles of trails.

 
Tuckahoe State Park
 
Tuckahoe State Park surrounds Tuckahoe Creek, a quiet country stream bordered for most of its length by wooded marshlands.  The park contains a 60-acre lake and offers 20 miles of scenic hiking on well maintained, well blazed trails. It is open 1000 to sunset. The lake may be used sunrise to sunset.
     13070 Crouse Mill Road
     Queen Anne, Maryland 21657

Tuckahoe State Park Trail Guide
Canoeing and Kayaking on Tuckahoe Creek

Camping is available from May 1 to September 30.  Call 410-820-1668 or 1-888-432-2267 to make reservations.

Canoe and kayak rental at the Lake Boat House for $15 for half a day and $25 for a full day.

I've been told that there is an aviary at the park. It is a white building behind their headquarters building. It isn't marked so you might have to ask where it is. I'm guessing they don't want folks to disturb the birds any more than necessary. They have raptors that for some reason or another cannot be released back into the wild. I'm guessing this aviary is part of their Scales and Tales program.

Adkins Arboretum encompasses 500 acres of Tuckahoe State Park land and contains almost three miles of surfaced walkways.  The Arboretum Visitor’s Center is located a half mile north of the Park Visitor Center (location given below).  The arboretum is open Monday through Saturday 0900-1700, Sunday 1100-1500.  Closed holidays.  Closed on Sundays November through March.

Tuckahoe State Park
Location: Queen Anne’s County ADC map 28 F7
Date: December 28, 2005
Phone: 410-820-1668
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.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404).
After crossing over Tuckahoe Creek, turn left (north) onto Ridgely Road (route 480).
Make the next left (north) onto Eveland Road.
Turn left (west) onto the road opposite Sawmill Road.  The house to which this road leads is the Park Visitor Center.
Notes: By heading directly east from the Park Visitor Center, one will come to the Tuckahoe Valley Trail which runs along the Tuckahoe Creek for 4.5 miles.  Several other trails run near the river. The visitor center will likely be closed during the winter. No restroom. Closest restroom is at Adkins Arboretum, a half mile north of the Park Visitor Center just off Eveland Road on the west side (left if heading north). Driving time is 80 minutes from Elkridge.

A good hiking route is to start at the Park Visitor Center or Adkins Arboretum and hike north on Tuckahoe Valley Trail (blue blazes). At Crouse Mill Road, head left (west) and follow Crouse Mill Road south at the split. About a half mile after the split, catch Pee Wee's Trail (orange blazes) near the Equestrian Center. Head south on the trail until seeing the bridge over Tuckahoe Creek on the left (east). This bridge is fairly large with steel rails, probably strong enough to support a vehicle. Cross the bridge and catch Tuckahoe Valley Trail heading right (southeast). The trail will split. Stay on Creek-Side Cliff Trail (yellow-orange blazes), heading south. The state park map shoes the trail turning left (east) just before a railroad track. The track is actually buried and not used. The trail passes under the power lines. If you come to the cemetery, you've gone too far. Walk under the power lines then catch Tuckahoe Valley Trail heading left (north). Stay on the trail to return to where you started. If you wish to take a short cut on the way back, note that the state park map shows a High Water Route in a broken purple line but as of December 2005, this short cut is blazed in blue (like the main trail) and has no sign. The dotted purple line on the state park map is not named but on the trail, it is called Wilbur's Cutoff Trail. This loop will take about 4 hours at a moderate pace. Special thanks to Susanita for helping scout this route.

Tuckahoe Valley Trail at Crouse Mill Road
Location: Queen Anne’s County ADC map 28 E4
Date: December 28, 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.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404).
After crossing over Tuckahoe Creek, turn left (north) onto Ridgely Road (route 480).
Make the next left (north) onto Eveland Road.
At the end of Eveland Road, turn left (west) onto Crouse Mill Road.  Across from the lake, before crossing over Tuckahoe Creek, there will be an area to park along the left (south) side of the road.
Notes: There should be a restroom on the east side of the lake but it will probably be locked in the winter.

Tuckahoe Valley Trail at Cemetery Road
Location: Queen Anne’s County ADC map 28 E12
Date: December 28, 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.
Turn left (east) onto Queen Anne Highway (route 404).
After crossing over Tuckahoe Creek, turn left (north) onto Cemetery Road.  On the left (west side) there will be a dirt parking lot.
Notes: After parking in the dirt lot, walk to the end of Cemetery Road heading north to the power lines. The southernmost end of the Tuckahoe Valley Trail begins here.  No restrooms.

 
Wooten's Landing
 
This hidden gem is home to a good number of wetland creatures. It is nice for a short stroll when you don't have much time and don't feel like driving far. Or, stop by after paddling on the Patuxent River.

Location: Anne Arundel County ADC map 23 A3
Date: March 20, 2009
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).
Right after passing under highway 50 in Bowie, turn left (east) at the first light onto Governor Bridge Road. The road to the right is Harbour Way. Follow for 2.4 miles.
Turn right on Patuxent River Road. Enjoy the scenic farmlands. Follow for 5.5 miles.
At the split in the road, turn right (south) on Sands Road. Follow for 2-2.5 miles. I'm not totally sure how far because the map I have doesn't show the park entrance and neither do any of the mapping websites.
Turn right (west) at the sign which reads "4642 Treament Place." This is just south of the mobile home park on the east.
Notes: There is room for about 5 vehicles at the park entrance. No restroom. About 40 minutes from Hanover. There are some trails wide enough for a vehicle though unauthorized motorized vehicles are prohibited. I recommend exploring the place on a hybrid bicycle. The park closes at sunset. See my March 20, 2009 trip report.