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 Reporter |
Summary: There are 14+ miles of loop trails on Catoctin Mountain beginning and ending at the Gambrill State Park parking lot. The trails are named after colorful trees and are blazed accordingly. The trails vary from easy to strenuous and from 1 to 7 miles in length. They are quire popular with hikers, bikers, and the occasional equestrian. The lot is frequently nearly full, so get there early. The Yellow Poplar trail is the longest. Bikers consider it one of the most "technical" trails in Maryland. There are some steep sections and the trail is very rocky in places. Since this trail runs parallel with the ridgeline on both sides, you can catch some nice views of the Monocacy Valley toward Frederick and the Cactoctin Valley toward South Mountain. If you catch it a the right time, Cactoctin Mountain is covered with beautiful laurel. Trailhead: From Washington: Take I-270 north to Frederick, which transitions into U.S. Route 15, and continue to Route 40 west (West Patrick Street). Exit to the I-70 west/Route 40 split, bear right and continue on Route 40. Turn right on Gambrill Park Road to reach the trail parking lot on the right. All trails terminate at this parking lot. From Baltimore: Take I-70 west to Frederick and follow to U.S. Route 15 and then to Route 40 west exit. Follow Route 40 west to Gambrill Park Road on your right as above. (Lat:39.46218 Lon:-77.49137) Trail Guides for Gambrill Yellow Trail and Others: Maryland Gambrill State Park Trail Guide by na (Maryland Dept of Natural Resources) 50 Hikes in Maryland by Leonard M . Adkins (Backcountry Guides) Hikes in the Washington Region Part A Montgomery and Frederick in Maryland by Potomac Applachian Trail club (Potomac Applachian Trail Club) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: Park manager: (301) 271-7574 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Richard Denton, who has posted 14 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Tim B. on 10/17/2009 I hiked the Yellow trail on a really crappy day in October(raining and 44 degrees) but still enjoyed it. The trails are very well marked. It is rocky but they're mostly small spiky rocks, not climb over rocks, and they are slippery when wet, so wear good shoes or bring your balance. Some hills, but relatively easy. Beautiful mountain laurel everywhere. Views would've been nice but too much rain/mist. I would do this again on a nicer day.
Reviewed by Don on 3/14/2008 Very nice hike. Variety of trails. Hardcore hikers can start north of Thurmont and hike into Gambrill State Park in Frederick (about 28 miles). Would suggest good hiking shoes as certain areas have large rock and tree stump outcroppings. Overall, a fun hike. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Maryland Hiking, Maryland Trails, Maryland Hikes, Frederick County Hiking, Frederick County Trails, Frederick County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
