Patapsco Valley State Park: McKeldin Area: Switchback Trail! A Moderate Hike

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/1/d/8/event_22812760.jpeg

Patapsco Valley State Park: McKeldin Area: Switchback Trail: A Moderate 4 Mile Trek!

"Starting from the swift rapids of the South Branch, to the confluence of the North and South Branches and beyond, this hike follows the mood of the Patapsco River—sometimes lively, sometimes lazy. About two-thirds of the hike comes into very close contact with the river. The return is a woodland walk through a narrow hollow favored by white-tailed deer. Thanks to the topography of the area, it is possible to find solitude any time of year. The rolling landscape and cliffs provide a buffer that allows for quiet enjoyment of the stream valley." Portions from "Hiking Maryland and Delaware", second edition.

The Switchback trail begins by the contact station at the top of the hill near the entrance to the park. We will enjoy this beautiful, riverside trail for the full 4 miles. The northern part of this trail is foot-use-only. During late fall and winter, enjoy a scenic view at the Liberty Dam Overlook located at the end of the trail.

Hike Pace
This hike will be led at a moderate pace which is that of the average hiker. About 2.5 mph.

Trail Information

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/0/1/f/event_47500991.jpegActivity Type: Hiking
Nearby City: Baltimore
Length: 4-5 total miles
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Trail Type: Loop

Skill Level: Moderate

Season: Year-round
Local Contacts: Patapsco Valley State Park McKeldin Area
Local Maps:USGS Ellicott City, Maryland

Weather Information

We hike rain or shine. Click here (http://www.weather.com/weather/local/21043?lswe=21043&lwsa=WeatherLocalUndeclared&from=searchbox_localwx) to see an up to the minute forecast for where we will be hiking.

Carpool Information
If you can drive or want to carpool from any locations such as the DC area, please post your location and needs in the comment section below. Click here for suggested carpool locations (http://www.midatlantichiking.com/messages/boards/thread/8958392) complete with directions. For those who need a ride, reach out to the drivers. Make friends, and support the environment - by just offering a ride


Directions to the Trailhead

Click Here (http://www.midatlantichiking.com/pages/Directions%3A_PSP%3A_McKeldin_Area_Switchback_Trail) for where to meet for this hike.

Hike Meetup time is at 9:30 a.m.

Park Fee

Monday through Friday: $2 per vehicle in-state; $4 per vehicle out-of-state. Weekends and Holidays: $3 per person in-state, $5 per person out-of-state. Admitted Free: Senior citizens 62 and older with the Golden Age Pass, people with the Access Maryland State Park Pass for persons with disabilities, members of the Maryland National Guard & all active duty military personnel who display their active military identification card.

Please remember we are a social hiking group that values fellowship and camaraderie and practice good hike etiquette (https://www.meetup.com/Maryland-Hiking/pages/Hiking_and_Trail_Etiquette/). We take breaks as necessary and have at least one guide in the front in addition to a "sweeper" in the back which means that no hiker is left behind. If you get upset because someone has to rest at the top of a hill etc. then find another group! We are very supportive, encouraging, and focus on safety while getting or staying fit on the trail and practicing Leave No Trace (https://www.meetup.com/Maryland-Hiking/pages/Leave_No_Trace_Hiking/) outdoor ethics.

Fido Is Welcome on This Hike!

Please take the hike leaders number with you just in case!

Kellie: 240.393.7640

Ken: 301.512.4653

Justin: 240.393.7641