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 Reporter |
Summary: The town of Point of Rocks consists of little more than a three-block stretch of street running parallel to the canal and railroad tracks. It's worth a brief visit to the Victorian train station, and has a small country store for stocking up prior to or after, heading out. Calico Rocks campsite is named for the composite rocks of this region - a mix of multicolored pebbles held together by a natural cement of limestone, referred to as "Potomac Marble." Nolands Ferry was an important crossing point for settlers following the old Indian trail and wagon road and dates back to 1742. The 7 arches spanning the 560 ft Monocacy Aqueduct was once the jewel of the canal. It's now reinforced with steel beems, and struggles against the current and loose soil. Trailhead: I-495 Beltway to I-270. Follow I-270 to Frederick, MD, then take Rt 15 South to Point of Rocks. Turn left into small town, and immediately turn right again. Follow road behind houses, and over train tracks. Parking area is underneath the Rt 15 bridge. Trail begins heading downstream following Potomac River. (Lat:39.2749 Lon:-77.5416) Trail Guides for C&O Canal - Point of Rocks to Monocacy Aqueduct: 60 Hikes within 60 miles of Washington D.C. by Paul Elliott (Menasha Ridge Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: Canal National Park Headquarters (301) 739-4200 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joe Cross, who has posted 56 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Charlie on 6/16/2008 A great Father's Day hike. My wife, Nancy, and I decided to take a nice walk along the canal at Point of Rocks, MD. on Father's Day 2008. We took our yellow lab, Lily, along and we had a great time. We headed south from the parking area and round trip, walked about 3 miles. The weather was absolutely beautiful...cloudless sky, nice breeze from the river, and low humidity. The trail is flat and was a bit muddy in spots but that did not distract from our intent...to enjoy a day together as our children are grown and doing well as the make their own way in life. We were thankful for the peace the walk gave us and very much enjoyed the morning together.
Reviewed by Kayleigh on 11/9/2003 It was so much fun, and great place to take dogs for a trial run. I have a Brittany he we both loved it! Great for 1st time dog hikes! 
Reviewed by Alex L. on 10/6/2003 Extremely flat, almost perfectly straight, and pretty muddy for the first half (in no doubt caused by the recent hurricane/rain). Unfortunately there was not much to see along the way, just trees and the occasional view through them of the nearby Potomac river. The aqueduct was a little dissapointing as well; it might be more interesting when restoration is complete. I'd recommend this hike for hiking or biking with small children, or those looking for a nice stroll through the woods. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||