Mid-Atlantic Hiking Group
Patapsco Valley State Park Hike: Daniels Dam Area! A Moderate 4.2 or 7 Miles with Optional Post Hike Meal
This is a NEW hike in a remote area that truly is a hidden gem! We will make figure-8 out of two loops in an under-appreciated and little used section of Patapsco Valley State Park on trails that take us over moderate, yet rewarding, terrain. We’ll be back at the cars and have lunch at the end of the first loop (4.2 mile option) so you can lunch with us then leave, OR stay for the second (somewhat easier) loop of just over three miles over rolling terrain bringing our total hike distance to about 7 moderate miles.
There is one small stream crossing on the second loop and it's usually very easy. While many developed areas inside Patapsco Valley State Park provide amenities for family outings, camping, and picnics, lucky for us the state park also offers huge tracts where you’re on your own as we will enjoy today. Since the area for this hike runs through unmaintained areas of the state park, it promises solitude, peace, and wildlife. You’re more likely to see horses than mountain bikes.
The first loop (4.2 mile option) will end where we’re parked so anyone joining us for shorter distance can opt out at that point. There are picnic tables nearby if you want lunch there. For those joining us for the 7 mile hike, we will continue on the second loop without lunch and then after the hike, drive/caravan to a nearby (about four miles) local popular and modest restaurant (lunches are about $10, beers are $2.50 for some domestic, and up to maybe $5 for imported) for a latish (maybe 1:30) lunch. You may want to bring a snack to tide you over.
Trail Information
Nearby City: Ellicott City, MD
Length: Your Choice of Either an Easy-Side-of-Moderate 4.2 Mile or a Moderate 7-8 total miles
Elev. Gain: 800 feet with 600 feet for the first loop and 200' for the second. There are modest ups and downs on this hike but it is still on the easier side of moderate because of its short distance and none of the hills are very challenging.
Trail Type: Figure-8
Skill Level: Moderate
Season: Year-round
Park Fee
There is no park fee for this hike.
Gear Information
Click Here for suggestions for what to wear and what not to wear for our hikes.
Weather Information
We hike rain or shine. Click Here for up to the minute weather information for the trailhead
Hike Pace
This hike will be led at moderate pace of about 2.5-3.0 mph (pace of an average hiker). Please sign up for another hike if you know that this is not a comfortable pace for you.
Our RSVP Policies and Group Etiquette
Click Here to review our RSVP policies and group etiquette.
Carpool Suggestions and Information
Note that you are responsible for knowing how to get from carpool locations to the venue. Mid-Atlantic Hiking Group is not responsible for transportation to and from events or carpools. Suggested carpool times and locations are provided as a courtesy because many members are either new to the area or unfamiliar with a particular hike or venues location. Please use the Comments section below, or reach out via e-mail to make arrangements for carpooling needs and/or offerings.
Baltimore Area Carpool Suggestion - Savage Station
To carpool or caravan from the Baltimore area, people can arrange to meet at Savage Station. Click Here for directions and additional information regarding carpooling from the suggested Savage Station location.
DC Area Carpool Suggestion - Centreville
To carpool or caravan from the metro DC area, people can arrange to meet at the Centreville Park and Ride. Click Here for directions and additional information regarding carpooling from the suggested Centreville Park and Ride location.
If you can drive or want to carpool from additional locations, please post your location and needs in the comment section below. Click Here for a list of suggested carpool locations, each complete with a physical address, GPS coordinates, driving directions and additional carpool information.
For those who need a ride, reach out to the drivers. Make friends, and support the environment — by just offering a ride!
Directions to the Trailhead
Click Here for Directions to Where We Meet for this Hike
Meet and Greet: 9:45 - 10:00 a.m.
Please remember we are a social hiking group that values fellowship and camaraderie and practice good hike etiquette. We take breaks as necessary and have a hike leader in addition to a volunteer “sweeper” which helps to ensure that no hiker is left behind. If you get upset because someone has to rest at the top of a hill etc. then find another group! We are very supportive, encouraging, and focus on safety while getting or staying fit on the trail and practicing leaving no trace.
A Well-Mannered, Leashed Fido is Welcome on this Hike!
PLEASE take the leaders phone number with you in case you have any difficulty locating our group. Note, however, that cell phone coverage is unreliable in this area so plan your trip to the trail head carefully with some time cushion.
Let's have good times and see you on the trail!
Mike:
Ellicott City, MD - USA
Sunday, October 11 at 10:00 AM
Attending: 1
Fee: Price: USD 2.00 per person
Details: http://www.meetup.com/Mid-Atlantic-Hiking-Group/events/224431722/