Patapsco Valley State Park: Woodstock Driver and River Hike: 6 or 9.5 miles

Patapsco Valley State Park: Woodstock Driver and River Hike: 6 or 9.5 miles

This hike is in the Patapsco Valley State Park- McKeldin Area, at Woodstock MD. The town of Woodstock was founded as a mining town based around its Granite quarries. The B&O railroad ran through the area with a station built in 1835 for granite deliveries. Woodstock was also an important stop for fuel, when steam locomotives were powered by wood (hence the name Woodstock). Our hike today is in two parts. The first part of this hike (6 miles) has it a lot to take in – It starts off passing by massive boulders before moving into rich forest land with hills, valleys and streams. These create spectacular views of the terrain, the Patapsco river and the railroad. Along the way we will pass old stone house foundations and two really old cars, rust and all, that form an interesting "sculpture." The hike then enters meadows and grasslands and passes by a picturesque old barn that harkens back to an earlier time. Flora and fauna abound throughout the hike. The second part of the hike, 3.5 miles, takes us along the Patapsco river and up into wooded hills. The trail offers great views of the Patapsco river. Together, the hikes are considered as moderate.

There are a few stream crossings so poles are helpful, but not essential. Some areas can be muddy after rain, so you should wear appropriate boots.

Bring a snack or lunch which we will enjoy after the first hike.

The 6 mile option will finish by around 1:00.
The 9.5 mile option will finish around 3:00.

Directions to Trailhead:
1415 Woodstock Rd · Woodstock, MD. This is ACROSS THE STREET from The Woodstock Inn, 1415 Woodstock Road, Woodstock, MD. Park in Designated Parking Spots Only Because Some Parking Spaces are Reserved for the Inn and Towing IS Enforced.
The GPS coordinates are 39.331021, -76.870569

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
Distance: 9.5 miles (6 miles for the first part, 3.5 for the second)
Elevation Gain: 859 feet (577 and 282 feet respectively)
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour

Facilities: There are no toilets on this hike

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.

Weather: The weather for this location can be found here.

Maximum number of hikers: 12

Notes:
Please do not show up unregistered.
Please keep this a fragrance free event.
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