Trails in Maryland

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Trails provide many economic benefits to local communities and create a wide range of jobs, from B&B's to bike shops. They also help tell the wonderful stories of Maryland and its rich history. And hiking and bicycle trails are for the whole family, including the physically challenged. They make us all healthier and happier while opening up the natural world around us.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is currently working closely with the National Park Service, the Maryland Department of Transportation, State Highway Administration, Department of Planning, Office of Tourism, local governments, trail groups, and many volunteer citizens on a wide assortment of trails throughout the state. This is a great time to get out and walk or ride our many Maryland trails. We have something for everybody.

Southern Maryland also offers two new paved bike trails, the Three Notch Trail and the Indian Head Rail Trail in Charles County, that are chock full of environmental gems and sleepy little Maryland towns filled with down-home flavor. St. Mary's County is home to the 596-acre Greenwell State Park located on the Patuxent River, providing 10 miles of equestrian, hiking, and biking trails managed by the Greenwell Foundation.Chapman State Park, stretching from the Potomac River to Mattawoman Creek in western Charles County, is a journey through time, showcasing Southern Maryland's pastoral heritage, mature forests, rare plants, and bald eagles. Point Lookout State Park, at the mouth of the mighty Potomac River, offers a wide range of trail fun for people of all ages and abilities. And some of the best mountain biking and horse riding in the state can be found at Rosaryville State Park in Prince George’s County. Purse State Park, a wild undeveloped area that is used for hunting, bird watching, fishing and exploring for fossils, is located on the Potomac River on Wades Bay. Calvert Cliffs State Park trails lead you through forests, swamps, ending at spectacular beach cliffs along the Chesapeake Bay. Or follow the ancient pathways of the Piscataway Indian Tribe at Cedarville State Forest near the headwaters of the majestic Zekiah Swamp.

Trails for the whole family are part of the fun out in Western Marylandat Deep Creek Lake, New Germany, Herrington Manor, and Rocky Gap State Parks. Washington County is home to the Western Maryland Rail Trail, a 20-mile ribbon of asphalt that rambles along the upper stretches of the Potomac River. Allegany County features the spectacular Greater Allegheny Passage that runs from the historic railroad town of Cumberland all the way to Pittsburgh. The Appalachian Trail passes through Greenbrier State Park, a multi-use park, providing many kinds of recreation, including a 42-acre man-made lake where you can enjoy swimming, canoeing, hiking, picnicking, fishing and hunting. Gambrill State Park is a beautiful mountain park, located on the ridge of the Catoctin Mountains in Frederick County, featuring 16 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. And if waterfalls are your thing, you can explore the forested Catoctin Trail near majestic Cunningham Falls State Park and the Presidential retreat of Camp David, or head out to Garrett County where the largest waterfalls in the state can be found along the hemlock-lined trails at Swallow Falls State Park. For those who prefer motorized trail fun, Potomac Garrett and Savage River State Forests feature some challenging ORV and snowmobile trails. And if white water is your passion, Maryland's last wild and scenic river, the Youghiogheny River, is second to none.

Central Maryland is also rich in trails. The Torrey C. Brown Trail is a must ride, starting just north of Baltimore and meandering through rolling farmlands to York, PA. For unrivaled views of nature, try walking or riding the Big and Little Gunpowder Greenways in Gunpowder State Park up in Baltimore and Harford Counties. And smack-dab in the middle of Baltimore is one of the largest urban forest watershed trail networks in America, showcasing Patapsco Valley State Park and the paved Grist Mill Trail, along with miles & miles of mountain bike trails and the Jones Fall and Gwynns Falls trails. Some of the rarest plants in the Mid-Atlantic can be viewed along the trails at Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area in Baltimore County. If having large jet airplanes flying over your head sounds fun and exciting, try out the  BWI Trail near Thurgood Marshall/BWI Airport. And for lovers of Colonial history, there's the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail that runs from Linthicum to the Colonial capitol of Annapolis.  Montgomery County is home to a vast network of outstanding multi-use trails in Seneca Creek and Patuxent River State Parks.

If fishing and birding are some of your favorite things to do, try our trails along the Susquehanna River at Rocks and Susquehanna State Parks near the Conowingo Dam, the Wye Island Natural Resource Management Area, or the Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary.

Up near the Delaware and Pennsylvania line in Northern Maryland, Fairhill and Sassafras Natural Resource Management Areas features some of the finest equestrian trails in the state, while Big Run and Elk Neck State Parks provide outstanding glimpses into the natural world, unrivaled in the entire Mid-Atlantic. And Elk Neck State Forest has trails that seem to go on forever.

You can trace the course of Maryland history along our many battlefield trails at Fort Frederick, North Point, Smallwood, Washington Monument, Gathland and South Mountain State Parks. 

The Eastern Shore abounds in land and water trails. On your way to Assateague State Park along the Atlantic Ocean, take a ride on the Cross Island Trail which begins on the north side of the majestic Bay Bridge on Kent Island, just across the Chesapeake Bay from Sandy Point State Park. Wind through forested swamps by land or by sea at Tuckahoe, Martinak and Pocomoke State Parks, and our Chesapeake Forests will provide days of trail enjoyment. Marsh trails abound on the Lower Eastern Shore at Janes Island State Park, near the historic fishing village of Crisfield. And be sure to take a walk back into history on the trails at Maryland’s newest park, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is continually working with our many public and private partners to help provide new and rewarding recreational opportunities for our citizens and visitors alike. So please get outside and enjoy a Maryland trail. It's guaranteed to make your day!

Gwynns Falls Trail

The Trail begins at the I-70 Park & Ride trailhead and generally follows the Gwynns Falls stream to the Middle Branch and the Inner Harbor of the Patapsco River. All 15 miles of the Gwynns Falls trail system are open. The Gwynns Falls Trail is a unique urban hiking and biking trail providing access to a scenic and historic greenway stream valley in Baltimore City.

Check out the new Gwynns Falls Trail Map and Information Guide or view special points of interest and activities along the Trail.

A Unique Urban Greenway and
Stream Valley Connector for Baltimore

The Trail travels through an environmentally valuable urban greenway park in west and southwest Baltimore City along the Gwynns Falls stream valley. The greenway now connects over 2,000 acres of publicly owned land within the Gwynns Falls stream valley and includes one of the largest wilderness woodland parks in the Eastern United States - the Gwynns Falls and Leakin parks. These parks alone encompass 1,200 acres and house approximately 10 miles of additional paths that wander up and down the parks' slopes. These paths are wonderful for hiking and are expecially unique in an urban setting.

The Gwynns Falls Trail is a continuous recreation corridor that connects over 30 neighborhoods in west and southwest Baltimore with parklands, unique urban environmental features, cultural resources and historic landmarks. Local residents and visitors are able to bike, hike, roller blade, fish in the stream, picnic, watch for birds and other wildlife, undertake environmental education activities, find solitude and enjoy nature, host community festivals and meet friends and neighborhood residents along the Trail. For more info check out: http://www.gwynnsfallstrail.org/

Jones Falls Trail

When complete, the Jones Falls Trail will extend 10 miles between Baltimore's Inner Harbor and the Mount Washington Light Rail Station.

Currently, a paved, off-road section runs from the Woodberry Light Rail Station south to Penn Station. A highlight of the journey is passage through Druid Hill Park, which offers a natural escape from city life. The park houses the Baltimore Zoo, the Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens, and many other historical structures.

After exiting the southeastern side of the park, the character of the trail's surroundings becomes more urban. Along the way, the Baltimore Street Car Museum is a worthwhile stop.

The on-road portion of the trail begins past Penn Station and whisks you south to the Inner Harbor, a major tourist destination with restaurants, shops, museums, and other attractions. Navigating this section of the trail can be somewhat tricky; look for painted green trail markings along the ground to help guide you.

Just before the Inner Harbor, you'll pass the Phoenix Shot Tower, a red brick pillar built in 1828 that stands more than 200 feet above downtown. Molten lead was once dropped from its top into a vat of cold water at the bottom to produce shot for pistols, rifles, and other weapons. It's one of only a handful of similar buildings around the country.

Construction of the trail's northern segment, from Druid Hill to Mount Washington, is underway and will incorporate Cylburn Arboretum and Mount Washington Arboretum.

Parking and Trail Access

Street parking is available in Druid Hill Park, across from Rawlings Conservatory (3100 Swann Drive). The trail is also accessible from the city's subway system; several stations are either adjacent to the trail or just a few blocks away.

Three Notch Trail

St. Mary County Department of Recreation & Parks is pleased to announce that the Three Notch Trail project is currently under construction. The recreational trail is being constructed along the 28-mile, County owned railroad right-of-way (ROW), which runs south from Hughesville (in Charles County) to Lexington Park (to the Patuxent River Naval Air Station). The trail will be a non-motorized pedestrian, bicycle and equestrian trail. The trail is being constructed of asphalt and will be 10 feet wide in most sections. Appropriate signage, benches, crosswalks and road barriers are also included in the scope of work. The project will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Phase I of the trail begins at Route 236 in New Market and proceeds approximately one mile north to the Northern County Senior Center in Charlotte Hall. This area of the trail provides connections between the Charlotte Hall Library, the St. Mary’s County Farmers’ Market, the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, the new St. Mary’s County Welcome Center and the Northern Senior Center and links the villages of New Market and Charlotte Hall. Phase I is now complete.

Phase II of the trail begins at the Northern Senior Activity Center and runs about 2.25 miles north to Deborah Drive, in Charles County. This section is also now complete.
Phase III, from Wildewood to Wal-Mart, is being constructed by several private developers in the California area. The Wildewood, South Plaza and Wal-Mart sections are now complete. The County is in the process of constructing Phase IVA, from Wal-Mart to Chancellor’s Run Road. Phase IVB, from Chancellor’s Run Road to Pegg Road, will be constructed in the future as part of the FDR Blvd. community road project.

Construction is also complete on Phase V, from John V. Baggett Park in Laurel Grove to MD Rt. 5 in Mechanicsville. The design and engineering for Phase VI, from MD Rt. 5 to MD Rt. 236, is currently underway and construction is anticipated in FY 14. When Phase VI is complete, the northern portions of the trail will run for 11 continuous miles. Phases VII, VIII & IX, from Wildewood to Baggett Park, are planned for FY 16 and beyond, as funding permits.

Parking and restrooms along the Charlotte Hall section of the trail can be found at the Northern Senior Center, St. Mary’s County Welcome Center and at the Charlotte Hall Library. Parking along Phase V of the trail in Mechanicsville is located at the Gospel Light Baptist Church and at John V. Baggett Park at Laurel Grove.

The plan for the trail is included in the June 2001 Southern Maryland Regional Trail and Bikeway System (SMRTABS) Study prepared for the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland. The 2000 & 2005 St. Mary’s County Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plans also recommend the development of a network of greenways, bikeways, and trails in the County and specifically refer to the Charlotte Hall to Lexington Park trail. The plan for the trail is also consistent with the County’s Comprehensive Plan.

Development of the County’s railroad right-of-way into a hiking, biking and equestrian trail will provide numerous recreational, tourism and transportation opportunities. The trail will also help promote the health and wellness benefits of walking, biking and rollerblading.

Indian Head Rail Trail

The Indian Head Rail Trail is Charles County’s exciting new recreational trail. A generous gift through the Department of Interior’s Federal Lands to Parks Program, Charles County has completed converting this abandoned railroad corridor into a 13-mile bike trail. Connecting the Town of Indian Head to Route 301 in White Plains, the IHRT traverses approximately halfway across our County.

Without doubt, the IHRT is a unique opportunity to enjoy some of Southern Maryland’s most undeveloped natural areas. Originally built in 1918 as a supply route for the Navy’s Indian Head Powder Factory, this elevated rail bed passes through the Mattawoman Creek stream valley. Cyclists, hikers and nature enthusiasts will experience the surroundings of mature forests, natural wetlands and occasional farmland. Wildlife abounds! Visiting the IHRT is almost like stepping back in time.

Western Maryland Rail Trail

Beginning approximately one-half mile west of historic Fort Frederick State Park in Big Pool, Maryland, the Western Maryland Rail Trail (WMRT) winds along the Potomac River through rolling farmland, woodlands, and rural towns to its terminus at the southern slope of Sideling Hill Ridge. In August of 1990, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources acquired 20.3 miles of the abandoned segment of the Western Maryland Railroad Line, and the three lots in the Town of Hancock from CSX Transportation, Inc. The rail corridor was purchased with state-wide DNR Program Open Space funding at a cost of $1,042,000.

The WMRT follows a path rich in history. The Potomac River valley has been an important transportation corridor for hundreds of years. From the Native Americans to the National Road to the C&O Canal, people have always traveled the path of the Potomac River. The Western Maryland Railway was no exception. In its heyday, the Western Maryland Railway was a lifeline to the tri-state area of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Through the construction of the WMRT on this abandoned railroad bed, numerous opportunities are now available to visit old ruins of days past. There are interpretive signs along the length of the trail at many of these locations.

The WMRT currently offers about 23 miles of flat, paved trail surface. The eastern terminus of the trail, known as Big Pool Station, is located ½ mile west of historic Fort Frederick State Park in Washington County, Maryland. Many visitors begin their WMRT excursions here although some prefer to start at the western terminus located in Pearre, Maryland, near Sideling Hill Wildlife Management Area. The WMRT parallels the C&O Canal for its entire length.

Common activities that people enjoy on the trail include hiking, biking, jogging and inline skating. The easy grade and paved surface make this path ideal for families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities (the trail is very wheelchair friendly) to enjoy a trek outside. The trail is suited to anyone seeking a pleasant, leisurely outdoor experience. Biking and walking are the most popular uses of the WMRT. Pets are permitted on the trail.

The Western Maryland Rail Trail (WMRT), an asphalt paved path that was reclaimed from the former Western Maryland Railroad and is maintained by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

The WMRT is a 20+ mile trail that follows the bends and curves of both the C&O Canal and the Potomac River. The WMRT is perfect for hiking, biking, inline skating (roller blading) or, weather permitting, crosscountry skiing. And it's handicap accessible. From Hancock, Maryland, the trail travels 10 miles to the east to about 1/2 mile from Fort Frederick State Park, and another ten miles to the west to Polly's Pond (a small body of water where canal boats would winter). The trail is especially suited to families, novice cyclists (it's almost completely flat), and for anyone seeking a pleasant, leisurely ride.

The section from Fort Frederick opened in 1998, and the western route provided an additional ten miles in 2002. Crossovers to the C & O Canal will be found at mile markers 117 and 119 and at the Hancock Station parking area.

The trail is open year round and offers ample parking at the Hancock Station, just off Main Street in the historic town of Hancock.

Area Information contact:

Hancock Chamber of Commerce
126 W. High Street, Hancock, MD 21750
Phone: 301-678-5900
E-mail: info@HancockMaryland.com 
Hours: 9AM-4:30PM

 

Greater Allegheny Passage

 

The recently completed, 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage nowconnects with the 184.5-mile C&O Canal Towpath at Cumberland, Maryland to create a 334.5-mile traffic and motorized vehicle-free route between Pittsburgh and Washington, DC. The newly opened Montour Branc connects McKeesport to the Pittsburgh International Airport and Coraopolis.

The trail has a packed crushed limestone surface for a smooth ride. Built mainly on abandoned rail beds, the trail is nearly level with the average grade of less than 1%. The steepest eastbound grade - 0.8% - is from Harnedsville to Markleton and Garrett to Deal. The steepest westbound grade is from Cumberland to Deal at 1.75%. Near the Big Savage Tunnel, the trail crosses the Eastern Continental Divide. From that point going east, the trail drops 1,754 feet in 24 miles to reach Cumberland and, going west, it drops 1,664 feet in 126 miles to reach Pittsburgh.

From Cumberland to Washington, DC, you drop 625 feet to sea level on the C&O Canal towpath. The towpath is overall much less improved than the GAP, as it was built for mules and not railroads. Be prepared for ruts, tree roots, mud and mosquitoes.

Bicycling and hiking are the two most popular activities. In addition, sections of the trail system are open to equestrians. Horses are permitted only on the grassy areas between Boston & Connellsville; Rockwood & Garrett; Frostburg & State Line. The trail system is universally accessible between dawn & dusk. Winter snow allows cross-country skiing and snow shoeing. Fishermen take the trail to favorite fishing spots. Bird watching is another favorite activity.

Economic Impact Great Allegheny Passage - 2010-2011

• An estimated 750,000 trips on the GAP
• Over $50 million in Direct spending - Up from $40 million in 2008-09
• Average overnight spending $114 - up from $98 in 2008-09
• Average daily spending $17.69 - up from $15 in 2008-09
• 28% Plan overnight Stay
• 82% Plan two or more overnights
• 23% users’ multiday trips
• 40% travel in pairs
• 50.6% of users are between the ages of 45-65
• 14 % Mean Gross Revenue Income that business attributed to the Trail

 

Gunpowder Falls State Park: Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail

Named for the third Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Torrey C. Brown (TCB) Rail Trail follows 21 miles of the former the Northern Central Railway (NCR) in northern Baltimore County.

The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail extends from Ashland, Maryland north to the Maryland-Pennsylvania line, and passes through historic communities including Ashland, Phoenix, Monkton, White Hall, Bentley Springs and Freeland. Hikers, joggers, bicyclists, horseback riders and pets on leashes are welcome. The TCB Rail Trail users are welcome to continue their journey north into Pennsylvania by traveling on the York County Heritage Trail.

Points of interest include:

• The restored 1898 Monkton Train Station, which serves as a museum, gift shop and Ranger Station. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the Northern Central Railway. The Monkton Station is open Wednesday through Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and weekends in the spring and fall.
• The Sparks Bank Nature Center, which features interpretive displays and family activities, is located in Sparks. It’s open on summer weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and is available to school groups upon request. ATTENTION: Due to flood damage from Tropical Storm Lee, the Sparks Bank Nature Center is closed until further notice.

The Torrey C. Brown Trail, completed in 1984, is one of the best hiking and biking trails in the Mid-Atlantic region. It allows for more than 20 miles of flat travel on the crushed-stone surface, punctuated by a number of access points and an abundance of trees that provide refreshing shade on hot summer days. The trail begins in Cockeysville, Maryland, a suburb of Baltimore, and ends just over the state line in New Freedom, Pennsylvania, where the Mason-Dixon Line divides the southern Atlantic states from the Northeastern states.

The history of the rail-trail dates back to 1832, when the Northern Central Railroad carried passengers—people vacationing at Bentley Springs—and freight between Baltimore and York or Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The railroad ran for about 140 years, and you can still see part of the old bed, which was converted to a rail-tail in the early 1980s. Today, the Torrey C. Brown Trail is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as part of the Gunpowder Falls State Park.

Amenities along the route include picnic and park benches, drinking fountains for hikers and bikers—dogs too—and portable restrooms. Just off the trail you can enjoy a small art gallery, an antique shop and several places to buy food and drinks. Hotels and motels can be found within a mile of the trail, and there is easy access to a bike shop that rents and repairs bikes. The trail cuts through several charming Maryland towns: Monkton (a major stop for hikers and bikers), Parkton, Falls Overlook and Bentley Springs. At the MD–PA border near New Freedom, PA, the trail continues as the Heritage Rail Trail County Park.

Patapsco Valley State Park Trails

Patapsco Valley State Park extends along 32 miles of the Patapsco River, encompassing 16,043 acres and eight developed recreational areas. Recreational opportunities include hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, horseback and mountain bike trails, as well as picnicking for individuals or large groups in the park’s many popular pavilions.

The park is nationally known for its trail opportunities and scenery. We have 170 miles of trails, with 70 of those miles identified as maintained trails. There are hiker only trails and multi-use trails accessible from many areas of Patapsco.

In one of Maryland’s first state parks (1907), the valley and its natural resources have been enjoyed by the Native Americans, explorers, settlers and present-day citizens. With its source in Frederick and Carroll counties, the Patapsco serves the Port of Baltimore, and empties into the Chesapeake Bay.

The Avalon Visitor Center houses exhibits spanning over 300 years of history along the Patapsco River. Housed in a 19th century stone dwelling in the Avalon Area, the center includes a re-creation of a 1930’s forest warden’s office.

Patapsco Valley State Park encompasses 16,000 acres and five developed recreational areas. It is home to 170 miles of rugged, natural-surface trails that climb the hillsides along the river, popular among mountain bikers, equestrians and distance hikers. But one need not be a triathlete to enjoy the park's amenities. For those looking for a less strenuous workout, there is the Grist Mill Trail, a more moderate route and popular destination for parents with children in strollers, families on biking trips and people with disabilities. The Grist Mill Trail parallels the river for a mile and a half and provides a close-up view of its scenic beauty, while leading past numerous sites of historic interest.

In the fall of 2003, a new multi-use section of the trail opened near Ellicott City to enhance ADA- (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible recreational opportunities. The original section of the Grist Mill Trail connects the famed swinging bridge in the Avalon Area of the park to Lost Lake, a special fishing area for children under age 16, senior citizens and visitors with disabilities, and once a reservoir for the Avalon Iron and Nail Works and the Baltimore County Water Company. The 1.2-mile extension leads from the swinging bridge to the river's edge near Ilchester. The new segment brings the total amount of paved trails in the park to slightly more than 2 1/2 miles and extends the Grist Mill Trail to a distance of five miles.

Trail users stroll past several historic sites worth noting. The Patapsco Valley's rich resources attracted entrepreneurs who harnessed the river's waterpower for 18th and 19th century industries, and because of its proximity to Baltimore, it served as a gateway between western Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay. As a result, the valley was developed as a transportation route and serves as a crossroads for the National Road, regional turnpikes and the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) Railroad. Remnants of these early industries and the railroad can still be seen along the trail.

An observant cyclist or hiker may serendipitously find the ruins of the Orange Grove Flour Mill, which opened in 1856, and the Bloede Dam, an engineering feat of the early 20th century. It was the first hydroelectric dam in the U.S. where the turbines are located inside its hollow core, maximizing efficiency in power generation.

The original path of the B&O Railroad between Baltimore City and Ellicott City (1830) is also here; these were the first 13 miles of railroad track laid in the country. Horses drew the original rail cars while the steam engine was being perfected. Relics from the B&O Railroad include portions of the Patterson Viaduct and granite stringers that were used to hold the earliest iron rails that formed the railroad.

The park's legendary swinging bridge was once used by flour mill workers walking from their homes in the town of Orange Grove on the west side of the river in Howard County to the saw mills on the east side of the river in Baltimore County. Visitors can also see railroad tanker ruins and the lasting effects of erosion along the riverbank dating back to Tropical Storm Agnes in 1972.

Cross Island Trail

In September 2001, Queen Anne's County opened this nice little trail running across Kent Island. The Cross Island Trail starts in the Terrapin Nature Area (located directly across the bay from Sandy Point Beach) and runs all the way to Kent Narrows. This wide, paved trail offers some nice views of the Chesapeake Bay and the surrounding forests of Kent Island. The county has also constructed a couple of nice bridges along the trail which offer great views of the local waterways.

This level 5.8-mile-long paved trail running along Romancoke Road from Matapeake State Park to Romancoke Pier, the Kent Island South Trail is not a rail trail and does not connect with the Cross Island trail. About half of the trail passes through woods and the other half is out in the open without shade. Kent Island is located just across the Bay Bridge from Annapolis.

Catoctin Trail

This can be done as a 2 day backpack with camping around mile 16.6 at the Manor Area Campground of Cunningham Falls State Park, reservations suggested. Cars cannot be left at the Gambrill SP Trail System Parking Area overnight. You can park at Gambrill State Park (call them) and take the Red access trail from there to the Trail System Parking Area. No camping is allowed along the Catoctin Trail. This hike will take you through 2 state parks, a Municipal Forest and a National Park. You will also cross many streams and hike by at least 4 beautiful ponds. Watch out for mountain bikers on much of the trail.

BWI Trail

At Dorsey Road in Glen Burnie the B&A Trail ends and the BWI Trail begins. The BWI Trail circles BWI Airport for an additional 12.5 miles of paved trail. A parking lot and a children’s playground are located at the Thomas A. Dixon Observation Area on Dorsey Road in Glen Burnie. Several scenic views of the Airport are found along this loop trail. A spur trail from BWI Trail at Andover Road leads to the Linthicum Light Rail Station. Both Trails are open dawn to dusk.

Baltimore & Annapolis Trail

The scenic, paved 13-mile community trail is brimming with history lessons and boasts a solar system of information. The trail follows the route of the Annapolis and Baltimore Short Line, which started running freight and passenger service in 1880 and helped shape this suburban region near the nation's capital. Today, the 112-acre linear park winds through parks, neighborhoods and natural wooded areas. The trail also passes the Marley Station shopping mall, and the Ranger Station at mile marker 6.3, where public grills and a large field-perfect for disk throwing-make an ideal picnic stop.

Portions of the trail are sponsored by trail volunteers who fill the flowerbeds and kiosks along the trail, lending it a colorful, seasonal flair. Along the trail you will find a literal alphabet of historical markers, from A to Z. The A marker, at mile 0.1, is the Winchester Station House at Manresa near the Annapolis start of the trail. At mile 13.3 you will find the Z marker identifying the Sawmill Branch, the area's source of water and power in the early eighteenth century. To follow along with each marker, you will want to pick up a flyer at the Ranger Station. Near Harundale Mall you will come upon the Planet Walk, a linear museum with educational displays for the sun and each planet. Sponsored by NASA, the planets are true to scale and will each have educational storyboards that teach about our solar system. The trail, and its educational opportunities, end in the small town of Glen Burnie. But you may continue on the BWI trail loop for an additional 12.5 miles around the Baltimore Washington International Airport.

The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (PHNST)

DNR is partnering with the Potomac Heritage Trail Association and the National Park Service to evaluate an alignment for hiking between Point Lookout State Park and Marshall Hall, potentially connecting 11 DNR-managed lands, including Chapman’s Landing (Chapman State Park), Smallwood State Park, Chicamuxen WMA, Nanjemoy Natural Resource Management Area, Wilson Farm, Purse State Park, Chapel Point State Park (on Port Tobacco River), Cedar Point (1,737 acres), New Towne Neck (776 acres) and St. Inigoes (985 acres). A natural-surface, mostly off-road trail in the Potomac River corridor, if feasible, would be a significant part of a multi-use trail network between the Chesapeake Bay and two northern termini—Point State Park in Pittsburgh and the northern terminus of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail near Johnstown.

Garrett Trails

Governor O'Malley has put $300,000 in his proposed budget for trail design and environmental upgrades on state lands in Garrett County. DNR recently finalized a Trail License Agreement with Garrett Trails in Western Maryland for the proposed Meadow Mountain section of the Eastern Continental Divide Loop Trail (ECDL), from I-68 to just south of Frank Brennerman Road.

The ECDL will eventually connect to the Greater Allegheny Passage (GAP) in Meyersdale, Pennsylvania and run through Savage River State Forest, Deep Creek Lake, Oakland, Herrington Manor and Swallow Falls State Park, Friendsville, and then back into the GAP at Confluence, PA.

The International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) and the Mid-Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts (MORE) are also assisting Garrett Trails in building sustainable mountain bike trails on The Wisp and closing rogue (illegal) trails throughout the county.

Western Maryland Rail Trail Phase IV

The Maryland Department of Transportation and State Highway Administration have appropriated funds through the Transportation Enhancement Program to add another 4.7 miles to the 20-mile-long Western Rail Trail that is managed by DNR and currently runs from historic Ft. Frederick State Park, through the town of Hancock, and ending along the Potomac River at the forgotten canal town of Pearre. Over 135,000 visitors rode this very popular trail last year.

The new trail extension will bypass the 106-year-old Indigo Tunnel located ten miles southwest of Hancock, MD within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. This abandoned railroad tunnel is one of the largest and still healthy hibernaculums, or roosts, in the state and is home to five species of bats including the Eastern Small-footed bat listed by Maryland as endangered and the Indiana bat on the federal endangered species list. In order to reduce any chance of introducing White Nose Syndrome which has decimated bat populations along the eastern seaboard, the trail will bypass the tunnel.

The September 11th National Memorial Trail

The September 11th National Memorial Trail is a planned 1,140-mile on-road and off-road trail connecting the three 9/11 memorial sites in New York City, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pa. The trail will be a tribute to all those that perished in America's single worse terrorist attack and serve as a symbol of the resiliency and character of the communities in which the victims and their families lived and worked. The patriotic volunteers at the Memorial Trail Alliance are hoping to create a multi-use, hiking, biking, and driving pilgrimage that will officially be designated by the federal government as a national trail. The Maryland segment, running along the C&O Canal Trail, is already in place all the way to Cumberland and beyond.

Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route NHT

The Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route was designated a National Historic Trail in 2009, and follows the rambling land and water routes taken by General George Washington's Continental Army and French soldiers led by General Jean-Baptiste de Rochambeau, starting in Newport, Rhode Island and ending in Yorktown, Virginia where British General Cornwallis surrendered. At this early stage, the Maryland segment t is primarily a driving route and includes army encampments at Head of the Elk River, Lower Ferry, Bushtown, White Marsh, Baltimore, Annapolis, Scot's House, Spurrier's Tavern, Snowden's Iron Works, Bladensburg, and Georgetown. There is an official National Park Service website http://www.nps.gov/waro/index.htm with links and a Facebook presence for highlighting NHT events, stories, maps and photos.

Maryland Trail Projects *

The Trails Division of the Department of Natural Resources is working with our federal, state, county, municipal and private partners on a wide variety of projects. Not every project listed below is necessarily a DNR initiative; for some we are merely providing technical assistance.

* The projects listed below involve multiple government and private initiatives and are not necessarily DNR projects.

June – July 2013

DNR Activities

Governor O'Malley appoints Joseph P. Gill as the 8th Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) – “Governor O’Malley and Secretary Griffin have set a new course for Maryland’s future in protecting and restoring the best of Maryland’s resources,” said Gill. “It is an honor and a privilege to steward and help build upon their great works.”

As Deputy Secretary Gill moves up to head the 1,200-person agency responsible for managing Maryland’s natural and living resources, two department veterans have also been named to new posts.

After 29 years with DNR, Assistant Secretary for Aquatic Resources Frank Dawson has been named the agency’s new Deputy Secretary. Dave Goshorn, who has been with the department for 21 years and currently serves as Director of the Office for a Sustainable Future, will be taking over as Assistant Secretary. Kristin Saunders, Assistant Secretary for Land Resources, and Wilson Parran, Assistant Secretary for Mission Support, round out the agency’s senior management team.

“Together, Joe, Frank and Dave are a management dream team,” said Griffin. “With 66 years of policy development and resource management experience specific to DNR between them, I can’t imagine a better scenario for the future management of – and I guess this is this last time I’m allowed to say this – the best agency in State government.”

Click here for more information.

Additional photos will be posted at photos.maryland.gov/.

 

Citizens and Organizations Invited to Celebrate Maryland Outdoors Days, June 8-22 – Nationally recognized Great Outdoors Month is right around the corner and Governor Martin O’Malley’s Partnership for Children in Nature is helping citizens celebrate! The second annual Celebrate Maryland Outdoors Days encourages families to get outside and invites Maryland organizations to post and promote their nature-inspired events. This two-week statewide collection of activities kicks off in conjunction with National Get Outdoors Day on June 8 and culminates with the Great American Backyard Campout on June 22.

“June marks the end of school, the excitement and anticipation of summer, and the perfect time to encourage our children to connect with nature through outside activities,” said Governor O’Malley. “Celebrate Maryland Outdoors Days reminds everyone to take the time to enjoy and explore the unique sights, sounds and recreation our natural world provides.”

The Partnership invites everyone to visit the Celebrate Maryland Outdoors Days website to check out fun happenings taking place across the State. The website serves as a forum where parks, environmental groups and other organizations ─ including faith or community groups, school or youth clubs ─ can post information about their outdoor events, activities, and places to visit for outdoor recreation.

Visitors can choose from a wide variety of activities which support the Maryland Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights. These two weeks in June will highlight opportunities for bird-watching, archery, kayaking, fishing, gardening, camping, hiking and more. Most are also extremely affordable ─ if not free ─ and can be enjoyed any time of year. June 8 also marks a Free Fishing Day in Maryland!

The Great American Backyard Campout on June 22 encourages families to experience their natural world through camping. All Maryland State Parks with campgrounds are offering special campfire and s’mores programs. In addition, select parks are offering unique programs including Scales and Tales, guided hikes, campfire cooking, owl prowls and kayaking.

To ensure all Maryland young people have the opportunity to connect with their natural world and grow to become informed and responsible stewards, Governor O’Malley established the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature in 2008, involving numerous agencies and organizations. Under this initiative, which is now being used as a national model, an ambitious set of actions focuses on improving connections with nature during the school day as well as outside of school and in communities. With help from the Partnership, Maryland became the first state to adopt a high school graduation environmental literacy requirement.

More information on Celebrate Maryland Outdoors Days is available at dnr.maryland.gov/cin/CMO or by emailing mdoutdoorsdays@gmail.com.

Click here to view a copy of the Governor’s proclamation.

 

DNR Trails Committee – The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is updating the state’s Land Preservation & Recreation Plan (LPRP) which is required by the federal government, and a draft must be submitted to the National Park Service by December 2013. As part of this year-long planning process, former Secretary John R. Griffin appointed the DNR Trails Committee to ensure that the Maryland LPRP includes a trails section.

The 2014 Maryland LPRP will establish a 5-year vision for land preservation and recreation, and will be based on input received from our land managers, local government, the public, and advisory groups like the trails committee. The Maryland LPRP will contain a separate trails section that addresses the needs of motorized and non-motorized user groups. The Maryland LPRP will provide guidance and investment strategies to support the many needs of the state's trail users as part of Maryland’s state-wide network.

The DNR Trails Committee is comprised of 15 people representing a broad range of perspectives, priorities and expertise related to trails.

Specific items that the DNR Trails Committee will be asked to review and provide input on include:

 

• Reviewing the responses to the Statewide Recreation survey;
• Conducting a trails needs assessment from each user group;
• Providing input on Plan goals and objectives;
• Discussing how to prioritize trail investments;
• Submitting a list of trail recommendations for the LPRP.

The DNR Trails Committee will meet 4 times during 2013. We intend to send periodic email updates and occasionally request feedback on issues or draft documents between meetings.

If you would like to get on our e-mail list so that you can receive updates on this process, please e-mail Steve Carr scarr@dnr.state.md.us.

DNR TRAILS COMMITTEE

Dr. Virginia Busby – Water Trails

Laura Collard - Education - Maryland Association for Environmental

and Outdoor Education (MAEOE)

Dave Ferraro - Mountain Biking - Mid-Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts

(MORE)

Ronnie Gathers - County Recreation & Parks – Maryland

Recreation & Parks Association (MRPA)

Steve Green - Bike Business - High Mountain Sports

Dan Hudson - Sustainable Trails - International Mountain Bike

Association (IMBA)

Richard Hughes - Heritage Areas - Maryland Heritage Area Authority

Ken Kyler - ORV’s - Mid-Atlantic Four Wheel Drive Association

Ellen Moyer- Local Government - Former Mayor of Annapolis

Ronald MacNab - Equestrian - Trail Riders of Today (TROT)

Rico Newman - Native American Trails - Maryland Indian Tourism Association

Mike O'Connor - Hiking - Mountain Club of Maryland

Carol Sildorf - Road Biking & Advocacy - Bike Maryland

John Wetmore - ADA - Perils for Pedestrians

Elizabeth Wyble - Friends of Groups - Friends of Anne Arundel Trails

Marylanders Asked To Provide Recreation Information – The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages Marylanders to share their thoughts on State parks and lands through a quick and easy online survey.

The survey will remain on-line until the end of June. It asks a variety of multiple choice and open-ended questions that will help DNR determine which outdoor recreation facilities, programs and services do and do not meet the needs of the community. Areas include State parks, forests, wildlife areas and trails.

Public input will help guide the update of the Maryland Land Preservation and Recreation Plan, which will serve as a roadmap for future State outdoor recreation facilities and services. The last plan did not focus on trails, and this time around, we want to make sure that trails are a priority.

The Department has hired a nationally-known parks and recreation management consulting firm, GreenPlay, LLC, to oversee the Recreation Component of this planning process.

To take the online survey, visit http://survey.rrcresearch.com/s3/Maryland.

 

The Central Maryland Regional Stakeholder Outdoor Recreation Evaluation meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 19, 2013, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Howard County Robinson Nature Center, 6692 Cedar Lane in Columbia.

The public input will help guide the update of the Maryland Land Preservation and Recreation Plan, which will serve as the roadmap for future State outdoor recreation facilities and services. The Department has hired a nationally-known parks and recreation management consulting firm, GreenPlay, LLC, to oversee the Recreation Component of this planning process. Contact Person – Steve Carr scarr@dnr.state.md.us

 

New Geologic Map Released for Westernmost Counties – Map will guide decisions on best use of landscape - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has created a new geological map for Garrett, Allegany and western Washington counties, that will not only provide information on the region’s geology, but guide decisions about the wise use of its landscape and natural resources.

DNR Geological Survey members David K. Brezinski and Robert Conkwright developed the Geological Map of Garrett, Allegany and western Washington Counties in Maryland - the first comprehensive geologic map for this region published in more than 50 years. The map covers the westernmost counties of the State, providing a current look at how bedrock units and major surface deposits are distributed.

As residential, commercial and recreational development increases in the western portion of the State, and with the potential for the Marcellus Shale to serve as a natural gas resource, the updated map will serve as a land management tool, helping decision-makers balance the impact of human activity with the preservation of natural resources.

The map includes short descriptions of geologic units and a cross section showing their distribution under the earth’s surface. Among other uses, the map will provide users with a better understanding of the distribution, depths and thickness of Marcellus Shale. This map will be especially useful in showing the interplay between geologic formations and groundwater availability and quality.

The map updates geologic information to be consistent with neighboring states, redefines boundaries between formations from the previous maps, and updates the subsurface cross section based on new review of geologic cores and geophysical logs. The geologic information is available to users in a modern Geographic Information System format, and as a printable map at www.mgs.md.gov/geo/wmdgeomap.html.

 

DNR Trail Atlas – DNR is updating the Trail Atlas on our website. http://www.dnr.state.md.us/map_template/trailmaps/trail_atlas.html

 

The Trails Atlas shows combines DNR's interactive trail atlas with http://www.mdmerlin.net/.

 

For "all things map", please check out the Maryland map portal at: http://imap.maryland.gov/Pages/default.aspx

 

This DNR Interactive Trail Atlas will be an on-going effort that will eventually include non-state trails. The trail atlas will provide a link to the MDOT/SHA map, showing on-road connections and levels of service for each state road. It will also provide a link to the Tourism's website at http://visitmaryland.org/Pages/MarylandHome.aspx showing tourist-related information, and the visitmaryland map at http://visitmaryland.org/map/Pages/Maryland.aspx.

 

SHA, MDOT and DNR have agreed to continue making their map data available to one another as needed. SHA is also beginning to develop a standard template for attribute fields and symbology. State agencies will be working together on these mapping efforts so that our maps are consistent.

In addition to the upgraded Trail Atlas, DNR will soon be providing geo pdf maps of the trails in each of our land units, so the public can download trail maps on their computers or smart phones. The public will still be able to purchase hard copy color maps through the DNR Store at: http://shopdnr.com/trailguides.aspx

 

Get Social with DNR! – The advent of social media has presented DNR with the opportunity to reach stakeholders in an unmediated setting. We have developed a hub & spoke business model at DNR with an overall umbrella account based in communications devoted to sharing your information, calls to action or good works.

https://twitter.com/AccessDNR

http://www.facebook.com/AccessDNR

DNR's Interactive Newsroom – The DNR Office of Communications offers the public a unique new tool: the AccessDNR Newsroom - a more interactive, user-friendly way for DNR to share its latest news and happenings with the public and members of the media. “The internet and social media have opened the stream of information directly to our customers and stakeholders,” said Josh Davidsburg, DNR senior communication manager. “Through this new format, we’re going to make it easier - and more importantly, faster - for the public to get critical information directly from our scientific experts, resource managers and policy makers.”

The new format will allow anyone to sign up for email alerts and RSS feeds, and allows users to easily find their way through news, videos and social media. Users will be able to share news posts with their Facebook friends and Twitter followers with the simple click of a button. “Social media is quickly becoming an alternative outlet for the public to consume news,” said Lori Livingston, DNR social media manager. “The newly designed newsroom will give our followers the opportunity to learn, share and discuss what’s going on in the department with others.”

As news has broken away from the cycle system and developed into a constant flow, 24 hours a day, DNR is also moving towards a daily posting cycle. DNR will post news as it breaks, allowing readers the fastest access to what is happening in the department. These updates can be easily accessed from a computer, tablet or Smartphone.To check out the newsroom or to sign up to receive RSS feeds, citizens may visit http://news.maryland.gov/dnr

DNR Map Tech – DNR has recently hired a seasonal map tech with extensive GIS experience to begin a state-wide GPS mapping project on all DNR trails. This position is funded through the Recreational Trails Program.

 

State Trail App – DNR has partnered with a private firm OhRanger to provide a free app for smart phones so the public can access park and trail information. The trail app is constantly being updated, and is available on the OhRanger website: http://www.ohranger.com/. DNR is currently working on creating an all-inclusive DNR app.

Western Maryland Trails – DNR has allocated $150,000 for the design of a stacked-loop mountain bike trail system at Herrington Manor/Swallow Falls state parks, connector trails from Deep Creek State Park, and ORV trails in Western Maryland. DNR is working with Garrett Trails and our land unit managers to design and build a premiere trail system that will make Western Maryland a regional mountain bike destination and economic generator.

Off Road Vehicles (ORV’s) – DNR and the ORV Advisory Committee continue to explore potential sites on public and private lands that could be developed for ORV’s. DNR has allocated funding for the design of the St. John’s Rock/Red Shale Road ORV Trail with an anticipated opening in the spring of 2014. DNR and the Maryland Department of Environment are reaching out to private mine owners regarding the use of their properties as ORV facilities. DNR has visited potential mine sites around Maryland and is exploring potential partnerships with private land owners and user groups, including the Maryland Competition Riders, Inc., a private motocross group, to re-open the Antietam Motor Sports complex, and the owner of the Wicomico Motorsports Park, utilizing Recreational Trails Program funds.

 

Maryland Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance – The OHV community has come together and formed the Maryland Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance. Local Western Maryland businessman Mike Twigg is the new President and Preston Stevens is the VP. The Board consists of members from all the OHV stakeholder groups and includes Randy Beeman, Chris Borger (R&T Motorcycle Club) and Bill Brennan (Washington Area Trail Riders). Ken Kyler is the Secretary/Treasurer.

 

ORV Permits Available at New Locations – The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is pleased to announce that off-road vehicle (ORV) permits can now be obtained at three new locations. ORV permits will be available for purchase at Deep Creek Lake, New Germany State Park, and Savage River State Forest.

 

Stony Run Path – DNR is working with local community leaders and Baltimore City to construct the Stony Run Path in Baltimore City, connecting Gilman School with Wyman Park and the Jones Falls Trail.

 

Join BIAM for the 17th Annual Eat A Peach Challenge Bike Ride to be held Saturday, August 10th, 2013.

All routes start and finish at the Carroll County Agricultural Center. This year's bike ride continues to have something for everyone, from the novice seeking a challenge to the most experienced Century Rider! Carroll and Frederick counties are known for their beautiful, hilly countryside. So whether you are tackling the rolling hills of the Peach or the monster hills of the Peach Pit, you are guaranteed to have an exciting ride! Click here for additional information.

• The ASG Security Peach Passage
  33-mile route, sponsored by ASG Security, has two rest stops. A pleasant ride with hills and nice scenery past horse farms.
  Registration and start time: 7:00 am - 9:00 am.
• Peach Jam
  You asked for it - A 67-mile route, which traverses Carroll and Frederick Counties. This hilly route is an Eat A Peach favorite.
  Registration and start time: 7:00 am - 8:00 am.
• Peach Pit
  100-mile route! Are you ready for the CHALLENGE? This ride, with about 7000 feet of climbing, combines the excitement of the 67-mile and 33-mile routes.
  Registration and start time: 7:00 am - 8:00 am.
  You must pass the 67-mile mark by 1:00 pm in order to continue on the final loop. Toughest one-day ride in Carroll County!
• Ride Amenities
  • First Aid/Rest Stops/Supports
    
  • First Aid/Rest Stops are strategically located along most routes.
  • Rest stops will be stocked with snacks and drinks.
  • SAG vehicles will follow all routes. Mechanical support will be available at the start/finish.
• Custom Bike Socks
  Pre-registered riders will receive custom-designed bike socks! They're lots of fun and much cooler than t-shirts!
• Peach Festival & Kids' Fun Station
  Come and enjoy the many activities at the Peach Festival located at the Ride's Start/Finish. At the Fun Station, kids will be able to touch a Jell-o brain to learn about the consistency and fragility of their own brain; examine a reproduction of a human skull and brain; do arts and crafts projects; and leave with a properly-fitted bicycle helmet. Kid's Fun Station activities are free.

Cumberland Valley Century - Come join the fun on August 10th. For more info: http://www.bikecvcc.com/cvcc_century.html

 

Patapsco Trails – DNR is working with park managers, and private groups like Mid-Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts (MORE), to address erosion problems on our park trails and create a Patapsco Trail group that can help regularly maintain park trails.

 

Patapsco Intro Ride Series – Have you ever wanted to explore the vast trail system at Patapsco Valley State Park at a mellow pace with folks who know the park inside and out? Here’s your opportunity to get to down and dirty with the some of the finest trails on the East Coast. These casual, no-drop rides will start with coffee and good vibes and wrap up with cold beverages and demo bikes at Rockburn Skills Park! MORE Gold Sponsor Aviation Velo is supplying the swag and MORE’s 2012 Ride Leader of the Year will lay out sweet rides for all ages and abilities.

Ride Date: June 29

All rides start at 10 am at Rockburn Branch Park in the parking area by the main Pavilion. RSVP @ http://www.more-mtb.org/events/moreaviation-velo-patapscointro-ride-rockburn-branch or http://www.facebook.com/events/479878658745718/ or http://aviationvelo.com

 

MORE Sunday Trail Work and Rides –

Pace: Trail work
Difficulty: Trail work
Location: Patapsco

Sunday 06/23 at 9:00 AM

Everyone needs to bring bikes this week, everything is up river, like 2 - 2.5 miles away, still walk-able but way quicker on wheels. And if you have a BOB trailer, bring it! Meet in the CSX parking lot across from the Woodstock Inn - 1415 Woodstock Road Woodstock, MD 21163. Contact: Eric Crawford - ecraw4d@gmail.com - 443.286.2149

Ed Dixon and friends have been working very hard in the North, the Patapsco 100 is one of the many many results. We're now fully engaged with making sure the race route is in tip-top shape. We need to get the sections around Woodstock Road as sustainable as possible before the race. Welcome to the Patapsco 100 Trail Work Series brought to you by AFC, Old Line Velo and MORE.

Work will commence on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month, March thru June. I know it's a lot. We see all of this as a baby step toward an official Tour de Patapsco Epic. It's worth it.

Weather permitting we'll likely bring bikes and BOB trailers since some of the sites are more than a mile away from Woodstock road ( though hiking in is good too, sometimes I even drag my kids along ). Let me know you're coming via RSVP in the Calendar entry ( sign in to the new site and the sign up tab should appear just under the 'Events' banner ) so I know how many donuts/tools/snacks to bring ( especially if you're bringing kids, they like to run in packs ).

You should bring gloves and sturdy footwear suitable for doing trail work outside, something to drink, a smiling face and your favorite tool. Expect to get dirty, wet and have a ton of fun doing it! We may retire to the Inn for lunch afterwards if there's interest.

If that doesn't entice you to come, how about a very nice high-quality Zorrel t-shirt, an entry into the race, and a cardo BK-1 Duo system? You have to show up to find out the details!

 

Emmitsburg Trailwork Series – The town of Emmitsburg, in northern Frederick County, is busily creating a stacked loop network of trails on city-owned land at Rainbow Lake. This work is being done in partnership with the Austin Steo and the Trail Conservancy. The Beginner Trail (2.25 miles) is close to completion and the Intermediate Trail (3 miles) is being designed. An Advanced Trail (3 miles) will be completed in the future (2015-2016), along with the Town Connector Trail (4-5 miles) that will provide easy access to hot showers, clean public restrooms, restaurants, bars and the Emmitsburg Community Pool. Mount Saint Mary’s University is also a partner in the process and has created a trail program. In time, the University may open much of its mountain property to trails, adding the potential for at least 5-6 more miles of single-track. Contact: Commissioner Tim O’Donnell at (301) 447-3839 or todonnell@emmitsburgmd.gov

 

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail – Under a Task Agreement, DNR will be working with the National Park Service to develop a color map and feasibility analysis for developing a walking/mountain bike/on-road/water trails, from the Piscataway Park to Point Lookout State Park through multiple DNR land units and other public lands. The goal of the project is to promote the natural and cultural heritage of the area by enhancing recreational opportunities and posting directional and interpretive signage along the route.

PG County Trails – DNR Trails Team is working with PG County Recreation & Parks staff to develop a trail through DNR land to connect the Bowie Heritage Trail and the WB&A Trail, beginning at Bowie State University and accessing the MARC rail line.

 

Conowingo Dam – DNR staff is working with local cycling advocates regarding a trail crossing below the dam connecting to DNR lands @ Conowingo Village which is owned by DNR. As part of the EXELON’s federal relicensing, DNR is in the process of developing a comprehensive recreational master plan. DNR is also working closely with the Vulcan Materials Company to develop a trail along the outside perimeter of their property, connecting Havre de Grace and Susquehanna State Park. This trail alignment was recently GPS'd following the existing, blue-blazed Mason-Dixon Trail and will eventually be part of the Lower Susquehanna Greenway.

 

Equestrian – DNR is working with the Trail Riders of Today (TROT) and Maryland Horse Industry Council to determine where equestrian use is permitted on each state land unit, and then update the DNR website to reflect equestrian opportunities. Developing regional equestrian camping facilities will also be a high priority.

 

Deep Creek Trail Master Plan – DNR staff @ Deep Creek Lake State Park have initiated a Deep Creek Trails Master Plan.

 

Montgomery County – DNR met with reps from the Montgomery County Recreation & Parks Department about extending the Patuxent River Greenway between Damascus and Georgia Avenue, making trail connections to state lands, upgrading the county’s trail sign plan, and enhancing the Rachel Carson trails.

 

Bicycle Friendly Building – DNR has installed a new bicycle rack in the basement of the Tawes Office Building near the shower facilities as part of the Green Team's Office of Sustainability efforts to achieve Bicycle Friendly Building status. The rack was generously donated by long-time bicycle advocate Bill Kelly of Ellicott City.

 

Children in Nature – QUARTERLY PROGRESS REPORT for October – December, 2012. The full 2012 Action Plan can be found online at www.dnr.state.md.us/cin/pdfs/2012_CIN_ActionPlan_Final.pdf.

Lead: Sandi Olek, Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), solek@dnr.state.md.us

 

Enhance Access to Green spaces and the trails network:

• The Nature Play Spaces workgroup continued to promote the establishment of Nature Play Spaces throughout Maryland with continued outreach efforts including publications, presentations and the establishment of another demonstration project at Rocks State Park, with one in the planning stages for Susquehanna State Park. Upcoming projects will include Jug Bay and potentially the town of Chestertown. www.dnr.state.md.us/cin/nps.
• The Communities workgroup is supporting and participating in the Community Health Initiative by providing input into project development, using the Park Equity Analysis and other tools to help guide plans for the pilot. The workgroup will continue to contribute to the Initiative by coordinating with ongoing community revitalization work such as state and local projects, developing best practices and building partnerships to support the efforts.
• The workgroup has begun to review submitted local (e.g., county) Long Range Parks and Recreation Plans and/or policy guidance to determine best practices which can be incorporated into the Statewide Land Preservation and Recreation Plan. This review and input into the State plan will occur through 2013. The workgroup will use this process to identify a potential proactive role for CIN in assisting future county practices in providing / utilizing nature areas in parks (e.g., a workshop to facilitate exchange between counties re successes, challenges, etc.).

Maryland Partnership for Children In Nature
2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Support for Environmental Literacy in schools and in the community:

1. Regional E-Lit workshops – 7 completed (Feb-March), over 300 attendees;
2. E-Lit Summit – statewide, 5-day, 24 schools teams/ 125+ attendees (August), LEAs developed ELit plans;
3. E-Lit professional development for EE providers – MAEOE received grant, planning workshops;
4. Regional E-Lit Liaisons – pairs of school system + EE reps; 7 workshops Oct-Dec, 7 more planned Spring ’13;
5. Clearinghouse of resources – NOAA revamping Bay Backpack website (Fall 2012);
6. Higher Education Forum to improve coordination w/ preK-12, teacher prep, E-Lit Prof Dev (held Sept);
7. Best Practices & Improved Data Collection for EE Experiences – NOAA/CBT conf (Aug), tracking tool (‘13);
8. MAEOE Green Schools Youth Summit – held 3rd annual, 54 learning stations, 3500 attendees/130 schools;
9. Mid-Atlantic E-Lit Strategy – CIN partners participate in and support/ endorse the Fed strategy, ongoing;
10. U.S. Green Ribbon Schools program – support program, great MD representation (4 awards), ongoing;
11. School grounds design/construction guidance – planning enhancements to existing guide and prof development;
    Capacity Building Workshops (3) for non-traditional EE providers in diverse communities;
12. Conservation Jobs Corps serving ~300-500 youth/ year, ongoing.

 

Communities/ Community Planning:

14. Oh Ranger! Smart phone Trail App – free trail maps, now available www.ohranger.com;
15. Maryland Trails Interactive Map, web based – safe on-road connections to state and local trails (avail.);
16. ark Equity Analysis to identify needs re access to park space – being finalized, will use with health initiative;
17. Nature Play Spaces – Pattern Book and demo projects (state parks, DNR HQ, more); www.dnr.state.md.us/cin/nps
18. County 5-year recreation plans – review / recommendations (Fall ’12 - on), will contribute to state plans in 2013.

Health and Agriculture Connections:
Children’s Health –

19. Health Forum held in June w/ 50 stakeholders, identified greatest needs for addressing health issues as relates to integrating the outdoors/nature into health and recreation;
20. Community Health Initiative – developed framework and strategy for comprehensive community initiative in an urban area, with action plan drafted for pilot project in a specific community to be selected in early 2013.

Agriculture Education –

21. Ag Ed programs are being integrated into school E-Lit programs and the MD Green Schools application;
22. Farm-Based Educators align w/ E-Lit – 70 people attended two workshops held Nov and Dec; more planned for 2013;
23. Farm to School – Expanded efforts to increase locally grown foods provided in schools, tying it with E-Lit.

Promoting Outdoor Play and Learning:

24. Celebrate Maryland Outdoors Days – two weeks in June, promoted 257 events across MD, online resource;
25. Communications / outreach components were included in most of the above actions and initiatives.

State-Wide Activities

State Bike/Ped Master Plan Update – The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is updating the 20-year Maryland Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master plan establishes a 20-year vision to support cycling and walking as modes of transportation in Maryland. The Plan will provide guidance and investment strategies to support cycling and walking. There will be several opportunities to get involved in the plan development, and MDOT welcomes your input!

Please visit the project webpage to learn more about the planning effort and to complete the bicycle and pedestrian needs survey: www.mdot.maryland.gov/bikewalkplan

The survey is designed to help MDOT better understand how people currently use bicycle and pedestrian facilities and what types of improvements are most important.

Please help spread the word about this important opportunity to set a course for improving biking and walking in Maryland. Project Contact – Kate Sylvester ksylvester@mdot.state.md.us

 

New State Bicycle Guidelines – The State Highway Administration has recently completed its draft Bicycle Design Guidelines. DNR submitted comments on the guidelines as it relates to DNR lands. Here is the link to the zip file: http://www.mdot.maryland.gov/Office%20of%20Planning%20and%20Capital%20
Programming/Bicycle/Documents/Bicycle_Guidelines.zip

 

Bikeways Grants – The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has received many applications for Bikeways Program funding. Applications were due by June 5. Funding awards will be announced this summer. To learn more about the Bikeways Program and to download an application, please visit: www.cycle.maryland.gov.

The Bikeways Program supports design and construction of projects that make biking a true transportation alternative by enhancing bicycle access to transit, enhancing bicycle safety, extending shared-use paths, and improving facilities and wayfinding for bike routes that connect key destinations, such as work, school and shopping. The Program supports bike improvements along both local and state roads, as well as off-road trails and pathways.

The Maryland Bikeways Program, administered by MDOT, was established in November 2011 as part of the O’Malley Administration’s Cycle Maryland Initiative. Since the program’s inception, 48 projects have been funded totaling $5.63 million. The grant winning projects to date include: on and off-road bicycle route connections, bike route signage, bike racks and safety improvements. Click here for a complete list of projects.

 

Recreational Trails Program – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is pleased to invite the Maryland communities to submit Recreational Trail applications for FY13 funds, with a deadline date of 2 p.m. on July 1, 2012. SHA encourages non-profit organizations and government agencies to utilize this Program to fund trail related projects.

Check out the Maryland State highway Administrations RTP webpage at: http://www.marylandroads.com/Index.aspx?PageId=98

The US Congress first authorized the Recreational Trails Program in the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991. It was reauthorized in 1998 under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21). The Recreational Trails Program provides funds to states to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. Examples of trail uses include hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, equestrian use, canoeing, kayaking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, off-road motorcycling, all-terrain vehicle riding, four-wheel driving, or using other off-road motorized vehicles.

Funds requested for projects cannot exceed $40,000 for trail construction and $30,000 for non-construction.

Activities eligible for funding within this Program include:

• Maintenance and restoration of existing recreational trails.
• Development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages.
• Purchase and lease of recreational trail construction equipment.
• Construction of new recreational trails (there are restrictions on new trails on Federal land).
• Acquisition of easements or property for recreational trails or recreational trail corridors.
• Operation of educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection related to the use of recreational trails.

Please note: These funds are not administered as grants, but are awarded to sponsors on a reimbursement basis; therefore, the sponsor must provide documentation of incurred expenses and proof of payment for the funds to be reimbursed.

SHA requires that the maximum Federal share for each project from Recreational Trails Program funds is 80 percent. In other words, a maximum of 80 percent of the total project costs can be reimbursed by Recreational Trail Program funds; the remaining 20 percent will be covered by sponsor matching resources/funds. Matching resources/funds, such as cash, property value, design, construction, construction inspection, in-kind services and materials should be included as part of the total project costs.

Project sponsors must complete a Recreational Trail Application for each project. The required information includes scope of work, funds requested, and matching funds to be provided. A blank application form can be downloaded and prinited at http://roads.maryland.gov/oed/rtp-application.pdf

Applications will be accepted throughout the year with an annual deadline of July 1, and will be received by:

Recreational Trails Program
Office of Environmental Design
State Highway Administration
707 North Calvert Street
Baltimore, MD 21202

tmaxwell@sha.state.md.us

Transportation Alternatives Program - (formerly Transportation Enhancements Program) is a reimbursable, federal-aid funding program for transportation-related, community projects designed to improve the quality of life for citizens. TA funds projects that enhance the cultural, aesthetic, historic and environmental aspects of the intermodal transportation system. The program can assist in funding projects that create bicycle and pedestrian facilities, conversion of abandoned railroad corridors for trails, construction of turnouts and viewing areas, inventory and control of outdoor advertising, historic preservation of transportation facilities, vegetation management in transportation rights-of-way, archeological activities relating to impacts from transportation projects and environmental mitigation.

For more information, go to: http://roads.maryland.gov/index.aspx?pageid=144&d=103

 

Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21) – The new law took effect on October 1, 2012. The most important change with MAP-21 is that it gives far more power to the Maryland Department of Transportation and regional Metropolitan Planning Organizations, like the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, to determine how money goes to bicycling and walking. For instance, states are still required to have a bicycle and pedestrian coordinator but there is no specific funding source to pay for them. And the requirement to have Safe Routes to School Coordinator is gone, but it's still an eligible position to fund. Those choices are up to the state DOT.

States and MPOs for urbanized areas with more than 200,000 people will conduct a competitive application process for use of the sub-allocated funds; eligible applicants include local governments, transit agencies, and school districts. Options are included to allow states considerable flexibility in the use of these funds.

 

MDOT Website – MDOT has a new website for all bicycle and pedestrian programs, beyond just Cycle MD. Check it out at: http://www.mdot.maryland.gov/IncludedContent/New%20MDOT%20Site/ tabPages/Bike_Walk.html

 

Governor Harry Nice Bridge - The 70 year old Governor Harry Nice Bridge spans the Potomac to connect Charles County MD with King George County VA via US 301. The 5 year planning phase of the Harry Nice Bridge rebuilding was just completed when the Federal Highway Administration approved the Alternate 7 proposal which includes a two way bicycle/pedestrian path.

 

Critical Trail Links – DNR, the Maryland Department of Transportation, and the Maryland State Highway Administration continue to explore making critical On-Road & Off Road Connections, like between BWI Trail & Patapsco State Park, and from the Torrey C. Brown Trail to the Baltimore City trail system.

 

Cycle Maryland Activities – Social Media is being utilized by our state agencies to promote on-going events. MDOT welcomes your contributions through their website.

http://www.mdot.maryland.gov/Office_of_Planning_and_Capital_
Programming/Bike/Cycle_Maryland.html

Bike Maryland Activities – Check out all of the neat bicycle rides, activities and the latest news at: http://bikemd.org/page.php?id=1

 

Anacostia Trail – The D.C. Department of Transportation received a $10 million TIGER Grant, combined with $3.5 million from the District and $1.5 million from Maryland, to complete four missing miles of bicycle and pedestrian paths on the Kenilworth Gardens Trail, connecting hundreds of miles of existing trail networks in Maryland and DC. This path will create new options for bicycle commuters and bring economic and health benefits to communities along the trail. The overall project includes the construction of five bridges, raised pathways, and multi-use paths. It will connect 16 waterfront neighborhoods to the Anacostia River, as well as the Southwest Waterfront, the Nationals baseball stadium, the Navy Yard, RFK Stadium, the National Arboretum, and other popular destinations.

 

Baltimore City Bike Trails – Trail maps can be found at: http://www.baltimorecity.gov/Government/AgenciesDepartments/
Transportation/Planning/BikeBaltimore/Information.aspx

 

Citizen Soldiers Trail (CST) – Mr. Robert Reyes, the CST trail champion, has been meeting with various federal, state and county officials about the trail that runs from North Point State Park through Baltimore County land, making it a local government project supported by DNR. Contact: Robert Reyes robertereyes@yahoo.com

 

Garrett Trails – Mapping and Awareness: Don Brigg, National Park Service (NPS), is offering to help pay for the production and printing of new trail maps that include the Eastern Continental Divide Loop trail vision, following the NPS cartography guidelines, and include the Potomac National Heritage Trail logo.

Trail Maintenance: Chainsaw training was attended by 12 volunteers and feedback has been positive. People attending the training are interested in volunteering on “trail maintenance days.”

Volunteer trail dates have been set for July 13 and September 21. Fork Run is to be the location of the first event. The locations for the July & September volunteer awareness and maintenance days are yet to be determined.

Senator Paul Sarbanes Trail Maintenance and Awareness annual plan submitted to the Army Corps of Engineers for 2013.

Meadow Mountain Trail (MMT) - The design firm JMT estimates Phase 1 of the MMT will cost $287,496 and take 3 – 4 months to complete. The County hopes to have the bid awarded by mid-May so that construction begins early June.

 

Fort Alice/88 Bridge Trail – The contract to construct the trail was awarded to Frank Arnold (who also built the Liberty Park Trail). Kerry Schultz is the surveyor/engineer on the project. http://www.oaklandmd.com/

Trail Maintenance – Clean-up after Hurricane Sandy is in progress. Anyone clearing trails within the Savage River State Forest needs to complete a volunteer form, which can be obtained by calling (301)895-5759. For more info: Theresa MacLennan - maclennanth@msn.com

 

Greater Allegheny Passage (GAP) – Mountain Maryland Trails is showcasing the completion of the GAP from Cumberland to Pittsburgh. For more information: http://www.mmtrails.org/

 

Star-Spangled Banner Trail – The comprehensive management plan and environmental assessment for the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail is now complete. The plan will guide development and management of the trail. http://www.nps.gov/stsp/index.htm

 

Susquehanna News Report – The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership has recently released its 2012 Progress Report. The report summarizes the work of SGP and its partners in creating places where people are connected to the natural and cultural resources of the Susquehanna and can live active, healthy lives. Click here to link to the report:

 

Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail - Check out the latest on this unique historic trail: http://www.nps.gov/waro/parknews/upload/May-2013-Newsletter.pdf

 

WB&A Trail – The 2012 Bikeways Maryland Grant to Anne Arundel County will authorize SHA to design the bridge over the Patuxent River. PG County is working with DNR to extend the trail on the P.G. County side of the river to Bowie State and the MARC station. SHA is hoping to perform an alternatives analysis to determine the appropriate location for the bridge and recommend that the county conduct public outreach for the project.

9/11 National Memorial Trail – The 1,140-mile 9/11 National Memorial Trail will connect New York City’s National September 11 Memorial, the Pentagon Memorial in Virginia near Washington, DC, and the Flight 93 National Memorial to commemorate the worst terrorist attack in America, and to honor those heroes who gave their all that fateful day. The Pentagon Memorial-to-Flight 93 link will use the C&O Canal Towpath and Great Allegheny Passage to Rockwood, but an on-road link is needed at least temporarily from Rockwood to Flight 93.

Contact: David G. Brickley
President and CEO
September 11th National
Memorial Trail Alliance
4310 Ridgewood Center Drive
Woodbridge, Virginia 22192
(o) 703-670-4526
(c) 703-628-5007
www.911MemorialTrail.org

 

Howard County Trails – The Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks offer an extensive system (183 miles) of natural surface trails and paved pathways with the park and open space lands located in the County. Opportunities exist for hiking, biking, horseback riding, trail running and bird watching. Here is the link: http://www.howardcountymd.gov/HowardCountyParks.htm

 

Parkers Creek Trails – The American Chestnut Land Trust has developed a series of loop trails that are open to public. For more info: http://acltweb.org/explore/trails.cfm

 

Tom Tyler Trail – Please come out and join Tyler Walston, a Chesapeake Conservation Corps Volunteer with the Chesapeake Bay Trust, who is planning, along with the MD Forest Service, a trail maintenance project on the Tom Tyler Nature Trail in Mardela Springs, MD. The trail is part of DNR's Chesapeake Forests.

Tyler will be holding the sustainable trail maintenance project on June 14, from 9am-3pm. Tyler is trying to promote the trail so that more people will come out and see what it has to offer.

For more information, please contact:
Tyler Walston
Chesapeake Conservation Corps Volunteer
Nanticoke Watershed Alliance
410-430-9207
tylerwalston@nanticokeriver.org

 

County Annual Program LPRP's – The 5-year recreational master plans for all Maryland counties and Baltimore City were due by July 1st. DNR has received most of the plans and is reviewing and providing comments. The public is welcome to contact the counties to review the plans and provide comments.

 

Baltimore Metropolitan Council's Bicycle Advisory Group – BPAG is working on its Action Plan and welcomes your input. Click here for details.

 

Allegany County Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan – The focus of Allegany County’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan is connecting communities. The connections between the trails and towns will offer more than recreational activities, but also provide for transportation and bring economic benefits. Among the projects described in the plan is connecting the town of Mount Savage to Frostburg and the Great Allegheny Passage, while creating a small loop trail that supports the Great Allegheny Passage. The new connection would primarily make use of an abandoned rail bed to connect the two towns. Another project would rehabilitate the tunnel under Frostburg’s Main Street to restore a connection between the GAP and Frostburg, according to the plan. The proposed trail heads south from the tunnel to become the Georges Creek Rail Trail ending in Westernport. The trail will provide a “backbone” to link all the parks in Frostburg, according to the plan. Another project would connect Dan’s Mountain State Park to the Dan’s Rock Overlook Park by a hiking and biking trail. http://www.gov.allconet.org/ACT/121128_MasterPlan_Booket.pdf

Email: CumberlandMPO@allconet.org
Mail: Attn: Siera Wigfield
1000 Lafayette Ave
Cumberland, MD 21502
Fax: 301-722-0326

Annapolis Bicycle Master Plan – Over the past few months many of you have been involved in the development and preparation of the City of Annapolis Bicycle Master Plan, which will guide the City over the next 5-10 years in developing a comprehensive program for cycling. This program includes facilities, policies as well as education tools for both cyclists and drivers. You can view the plan at http://www.annapolis.gov/government/city-departments/transportation/bike-annapolis/bicycle-master-plan-2011

 

Anne Arundel County Bike Studies – Two important updates!

1. Bicycle Advocates for Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (“BikeAAA”) has now launched! We are a new non-profit advocacy group that will promote safe cycling for transportation, recreation and fitness throughout the county. We will soon be applying for 501c3 status and also will launch a “charter member” drive soon. Learn more at www.bikeaaa.org and get involved in our Facebook group. Watch for future announcements about membership and events!
2. Public Meeting for the County Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan.
   The Anne Arundel County Office of Planning and Zonings Transportation Division will hold a final public meeting to discuss updates to the County's Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan. This plan focuses primarily on pedestrian and bicycle utilitarian trips, such as to work, school or shopping (i.e. every day transportation) that can take the place of car trips either by choice or by necessity, as opposed to purely recreational trips that are 100% discretionary. In addition, it only covers higher density areas of the county where these kinds of trips are likely to be taken by the average person. This is defined as the parts of the county covered by water and sewer service.

For more details and links to drafts of the Plan, click here.

Contact: Jon Korin, President, Bicycle Advocates for Annapolis & Anne Arundel County - www.bikeaaa.org or president@bikeaaa.org

 

Baltimore City Bicycle Plan – To access Baltimore City trail info go to:

http://www.baltimorecity.gov/Government/AgenciesDepartments/Transportation
/Planning/BikeBaltimore/Information.aspx

The Department of Transportation is updating the 2006 Bicycle Master Plan. The plan update will establish infrastructure and programming goals for the next 15 years.

Be part of the Bicycle Master Plan update!
Take the online survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/bikeplanupdate

 

Carroll County Trails Plan– Carroll County is undertaking the Freedom Trail Master Plan. The Freedom Trail will eventually connect to Patapsco Valley State Park.

 

Cecil County Bicycle Master Plan – During the past few months WILMAPCO met with Towns and the County to present the final document and recommendations. The 2012 Cecil County Bicycle Plan was adopted by the Cecil County Board of Commissioners, Towns, and the WILMAPCO Council. Binding the final document is delayed, awaiting an extra item in the appendices. You can download it from here: www.wilmapco.org/bikececil. Please note, this current online version has a placeholder in the appendices, and will be updated as soon as possible.

Contact Person
Tamika K. Graham
Senior Planner
Wilmington Area Planning Council
Phone: 302-737-6205, Ext. 1-16
Fax: 302-737-9584
www.wilmapco.org

Harford County 2013 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan – The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan is an important part of helping to make Harford County a truly multimodal community; one that promotes and supports increased bicyle and pedestrian activity. It is also an important step in helping Harford county become a healthier community. A Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee consisting of representatives from various government agencies and departments as well as bicycle and pedestrian advocates helped to develop the Plan. The Advisory Committee met periodically throughout 21012. The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Bill 13-13, was approved by the Harford County council on April 2, 2013. To learn more go to: http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/planningzoning/index.cfm?ID=904

 

Howard County Bicycle Master Plan – Howard County is developing its first Bicycle Transportation Master Plan. The Department of Planning and Zoning (DPZ) is the lead agency administering the planning process. To ensure a comprehensive look at bicycling, DPZ has secured the involvement of a number of other county agencies including the Office of the County Executive, the County Council and Department of Public Works. Visit the Technical Advisory Group page for a list of agencies and representatives involved.

The master plan will address bicycling for both transportation and recreation; and will look at on-road and off-road bicycling facilities. A variety of methods will be used to gather public input, including a series of public workshops, in the Fall of 2012, an online survey, and availability of an interactive online map. The master planning process is expected to last a year from June 2012 – June 2013. http://bikehoward.com/

 

Montgomery County Trails Master Plan – M-NCPPC, Montgomery County Department of Parks is updating the Countywide Park Trails Plan. This plan serves as the guide for park trails of countywide significance, both hard and natural surface. Since last fall, they have been meeting monthly with a “Trails Working Group” (TWG), which consists of representatives from the major trail user groups, to discuss various plan objectives and policy issues. The TWG is helping to advise and guide our planning process for the amendment. Contact: Farquhar, Brooke Brooke.Farquhar@montgomeryparks.org

 

Countywide Park Trails Plan Amendment Public Meetings

Your input is needed to help plan our trail system!

Upcounty Meeting - Monday, June 24, 7 to 9 pm

M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks, Shady Grove Training Room

16641 Crabbs Branch Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20855

 

Downcounty Meeting - Tuesday, June 25, 7 to 9 pm

M-NCPPC Main Regional Office (MRO) Auditorium

8787 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910

 

Montgomery Parks invites you to provide comments on the Countywide Park Trails Plan at one of two open-house style meetings. You’ll have the chance to learn more and provide input on recommended amendments to the Countywide Park Trails Plan.

Planners from M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks will be on hand to explain strategies to increase the number of park trails in the County’s urban areas and to explain what Montgomery Parks believes it can deliver in coming years. Input from the public on how to make the plan easier to implement and more sustainable are needed.

 

For additional information about the project, schedule and public input visit www.ParkPlanning.org and follow the blue quicklink for the plan.

 

To submit written comments or request more information, contact:

Chuck Kines, Project Coordinator

M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks
95OO Brunett Ave.
Silver Spring, MD 20901

Charles.Kines@montgomeryparks.org | 301-495-2184

 

City of Rockville Bike Master Plan – Rockville has recently completed a draft a draft map of the planned recommendations. Contact: Rebecca Torma RTorma@rockvillemd.gov or go to: www.drivelessrockville.com

 

Potomac Appalachian Trail Club – All meetings are at 7 pm at the Greenbrier State Park Visitors Center and are open to the public. Meeting dates can be obtained through ATC's website at http://www.patc.net/PublicView/

 

C&O Canal Trust– The C&O Canal Trust hosts a wide range of trail activities. For more information http://www.canaltrust.org/trust/

 

For more DNR information, please contact:

Steve Carr
Land Trails Planner
Land Acquisition & Planning
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
580 Taylor Avenue, E-4
Annapolis, MD 21401

Phone: 410-260-8478
FAX: 410-260-8404
scarr@dnr.state.md.us

 

Trails Inventory

We are also working to develop a comprehensive inventory and data base for all existing and planned public trails and trail systems in Maryland.

If you are aware of a trail or trail system that is not currently listed on this website, please contact the state Land Trails Planner Steve Carr atscarr@dnr.state.md.us so we can add your trail information to this growing list.

National Trails

Long Distance Trails

National Parks & Refuges

Maryland DNR Trails

Rails-to-Trails Projects

Regional & Local Trails

Maryland Byways and Heritage Areas

Maryland Bicycle Trails

Maryland Equestrian Trails

Maryland Water Trails

Maryland's Online Boating Access Guide

National Water Trails Projects

Hubs & Visitor Centers

Trails with Road Components and Automobile Trails

Off-Road Vehicle Trails

Let's Get Connected!

Momentum is Building to make Trails in Maryland "Second-to-None."