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Hart-Miller Island State Park Quest - Treasure Island

Introduction to Quest

HMI.Quest.jpgExplore Hart-Miller Island while learning of its rich history, current amenities and recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking and birdwatching in a unique environment.

Quest Information

The Quest is available during staffed hours Memorial Day weekend to the end of September. The quest will be semi-guided so it is important that questers come during staffed hours. The South Cell of the island is open Thursday-Monday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. The South Cell may be closed due to inclimate weather. Follow the Gunpowder Falls State Park Twitter account for closure announcements. Park questers will need to come during these hours. Weather conditions can change quickly on the water, so patrons should keep close eye on the weather before planning their trip to Hart-Miller Island. Comfortable shoes are recommended for hiking and biking in the south cell of the island. Bikes and helmets will be provided for part questers. Long shirts and pants are recommended on the trails of HMI due to bugs and ticks. The use of bug spray and sun screen is also recommended.

Hart-Miller Island is accessible only by personal vessel. Please keep close watch on weather conditions before making a visit to the island. Weekends can become very busy at Hart-Miller Island, and bicycles can be in high demand during peak hours. If park questers are coming on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, it is recommended to come before noon to avoid crowds and waiting times.

Park Information

Hart-Miller Island is a 1,100-acre island located in Baltimore County on the Chesapeake Bay near the mouth of Middle River. It is accessible only by personal boat. The western shore of the island offers safe mooring, wading and access to a 3,000-foot sandy beach. Hart-Miller Island State Park also includes Hawk Cove and Pleasure Island, which also provide recreational opportunities and camping. On May 7, 2016, the south cell of Hart-Miller Island officially opened for public access for the first time since construction began on the dike in 1981. The south cell will be open and staffed Thursdays through Mondays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The south cell contains over eight miles of trails that circle around a large, beautiful pond and include breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay.

The 1.8 mile Long Trail Loop boasts interpretive signage about the various wildlife and different ecosystems that are a part of Hart-Miller Island and also provides history on this unique, one of a kind area. Along with regular day use amenities, boaters and beach-goers can now rent bicycles to ride around the south cell. Visitors will be able to take binoculars and bird guides to explore the many species of birds that migrate to the island, which has become well known for its abundant bird population. There are also many other plant, insect and wildlife species to encounter. Staff on the island will also have light concessions for sale such as sodas and snacks. Hart-Miller Island is a must see for those who want to get away from it all.

Directions to Hart-Miller Island State Park

Hart-Miller Island State Park
39°15'10.7"N 76°22'21.3"W (GPS Coordinates for Hart-Miller Island)
410-592-2897

Directions to the Quest site

Park questers will need to find their own transportation to Hart-Miller Island. Many patrons launch their boats at local marinas such as Rocky Point Park (2200 Rocky Point Road, Essex, Maryland 21221), Cox's Point Park (820 Riverside Drive, Essex, Maryland 21221), or Wilson Point Park (950 Beech Drive, Middle River, Maryland 21220). Rocky Point Park is the closest public ramp to Hart-Miller Island State Park. Questers will need to obey the rules and regulations of each boat ramp they choose to use, and pay launch fees when necessary.

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