PATC Hikes & Events

Exploring Patapsco Valley State Park: A 5.5 Mile Hike with an Option for 3.2 More

Nestled along the meandering banks of the Patapsco River, Patapsco Valley State Park stands as a testament to Maryland’s rich natural and historical tapestry. Its sprawling 16,000 acres serve as a verdant sanctuary where forests, streams, and traces of bygone eras converge. While many sections of Patapsco Valley are bustling with visitors, playgrounds, and picnic pavilions, vast tracts remain untouched, offering solitude and unfiltered immersion in nature.

The hike begins at the iconic Swinging Bridge, a hallmark of Patapsco Valley State Park. It continues with a loop of approximately 5.5 miles, threading together the Vineyard Spring, Santee Branch, and Sawmill Branch Trails. The trail follows gentle climbs and descents, providing a satisfying challenge for hikers without being overwhelming. The route includes stream crossings, tranquil woodlands, and passes by an active rail line that has echoed through the valley since the 1800s.

For those with energy to spare and curiosity for further exploration, an optional extension of up to 3.2 miles is available after the primary loop. This southern loop hike leads past the charming Cascade Falls and promises an additional 450 feet of elevation gain, rewarding hikers with both a cardio boost and a visual feast.

Please note that you must sign up by 9:00 on August 6, the night before the hike.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 9:45 AM for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00

Directions to Trailhead: The GPS Coordinates are 39.240879,-76.749977 .

The Street address to the park entrance is 5120 South St, Halethorpe, MD 21227. After turning into the park, proceed to the end of the road (about 1/2 mile) and turn left over the bridge. Follow the road for another 2 miles or so until you see bathrooms on the LEFT. The parking lot is just pass that point. We will meet near the swinging bridge,

Contact Information: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed.

Details
Rating: Moderate to easy side of challenging
Distance: 5.5 or 8.7 miles (your choice)
Elevation Gain: Approximately 500 ft (5.5 miles) 950 ft (8.7 miles)
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour

Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead

Fees: $3 in state, $5 out of state. Free if you have a Maryland Parks State Pass.

Cancellation: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

American Chestnut: Raft, Parkers Creek Loop, and Bay Overlook, a Moderate 8 Mile Hike

Nestled in the heart of Southern Maryland, the American Chestnut Land Trust (ACLT) stands as a testament to both the enduring beauty of the region’s wild spaces and the resilience of a conservation movement born from tragedy. Named in honor of the once-mighty American Chestnut tree—a species decimated by the Chestnut Blight introduced at the dawn of the twentieth century—ACLT’s story weaves together natural history, ecological stewardship, and the invigorating experience of hiking through the land it so carefully protects. ACLT once had Maryland's Champion tree, but it fell during a hurricane. Today, the ACLT plants hybrid American Chestnut trees trying to bring these trees back to the park.

The American Chestnut Land Trust is more than a memorial to a vanished tree. It is a vibrant, member-supported non-profit whose mission is to preserve the natural lands, waterways, and habitats of the Parker Creek and Governors Run watersheds. Through community engagement, scientific stewardship, and a tireless commitment to access, ACLT safeguards approximately 3,800 acres of diverse landscapes.

Our journey begins at the main trailhead, where we descend the Horse Swamp Trail to the Bay Overlook, then hike back to descend the Double Oak Trail. This section is a favorite among hikers for its ancient, spreading oaks. At Parkers Creek, the trail comes to a curious and delightful crossing: a floating raft, tethered with ropes, carrying hikers across the gentle waters of Parker Creek. Once across, we have lunch along a beaver dam then double back making our way to the final segment, the Turkey Trail, which winds back to the trailhead through groves of sweetgum and holly.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 8:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:00

Directions to Trailhead:
The GPS Coordinates are 38.546005, -76.526887

Contact Information: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leaders are Tim; 202.744.0289 and Christa; 410.610.6254 . Call or text as needed.

Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 8 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 815 feet
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Portable Toilets can be found near the trailhead
Fees: No entrance fees

Cancellation: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.