Fossil Hike at Calvert Cliffs

Join us for a 7 mile hike in Calvert Cliffs State Park in Maryland. We’ll start our hike sauntering through the forest looking for early signs of Spring, make our way through the wetlands, and arrive at the cliffs. We’ll stop to eat lunch, enjoy the sandy beach, and look for fossils before we make our way back across the ridge.

Calvert Cliffs were formed over 10 to 20 million years ago when all of Southern Maryland was covered by a warm, shallow sea. When the sea receded the cliffs were exposed and began eroding. Today these cliffs reveal the remains of prehistoric species Including sharks like Megalodons, whales, rays, and seabirds that were the size of small airplanes.

This is a great hike for anyone who’s looking to make the transition to longer day hikes.

Difficulty: Moderate; wide even trails with gentle climbs
Distance: ~ 7 miles total
Elevation: ~300ft

Where to Meet: Vienna Metro – North Parking https://goo.gl/maps/HdqUdjE7Viq

Carpool Time: 8:15am
Please arrive at the carpool location by 8:15am to arrange carpools and leave promptly for the trailhead by 8:30am. If you are meeting us at Calvert Cliffs State Park, please plan to arrive by 9:45am.

Please read: Preparing for a Group Hike (https://www.meetup.com/OutdoorMuslims/pages/27676653/Preparing_for_a_Group_Hike/)

What to Bring: Hikers are encouraged to pay attention to the forecast and plan for fluctuating temperatures and factors such as wind and rain. Please contact the hike leader if you have questions.
• Minimum 2L of water
• Lunch and snacks
• Cool weather hiking gear (hat, jacket, gloves)
• Sturdy hiking shoes
• Extra pair of socks
• Rain gear
• Preferred hiking gear (poles)

Location Specific Weather Forecast: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.402900000000045&lon=-76.42188999999996#.XFSxM2hKhPY

Directions:
Calvert Cliffs State Park
10540 H. G. Trueman Road
Lusby, Maryland

Parking: Free at metro stations on Sundays. We will carpool from Vienna where there is ample parking. It’s a 1 hour 45 min drive to Calvert Cliffs State Park

Contribution and Costs: There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle for MD residents; $7 for out of state residents. There is a $10 recommended contribution for carpool drivers.

Contact: For questions please contact Faizan (faizanam@gmail.com) or call 804-399-8101