Feb 10, 2007 - 2nd Training Hike
Patapsco Valley State Park, MD - Avalon
Time of Hike: 8:30 AM
Distance Hiked: 5.5 Miles
Temp During Hike: Low 21.9 °F High 28.0 °F
Elevation Change: 300 Ft
This hike was just as cold as the last one but there was less snow on the ground this time. We met at the Park and Ride at the intersection of S. Rolling Rd. and 195. From there we crossed the road and headed into Patapsco Valley State Park for a 5.5 mile hike with an elevation change of around 300 ft.
We had to share the trail with mountain bikers, other groups of hikers (from the Baltimore Hiking Club), and even a Boy Scout troop. Despite all the other park visitors we were still able to find some peaceful spots along the trail and some beautiful scenery. At one location there was a small frozen waterfall on the hillside.
Overall this trail was easy but it had a couple challenging spots. We had to cross several frozen streams and at one point even had to pass through a tunnel with a floor completely covered in ice and an icy slope at the far end. This tunnel brought us out to the bike trail along the Patapsco River. We followed the bike trail down to Lost Lake where we were greeted by a few ducks. From there we headed up a road past picnic shelters to our trail back out to the parking lot.
About Patapsco Valley State Park, MD
Park Headquarters
8020 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, MD 21043
(410) 461-5005
Patapsco Valley State Park extends along 32 miles of the Patapsco River, encompassing 14,000 acres and five 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.
For more information visit:
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