PATC Hikes & Events

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION BELOW.

Explore a shaded walk through the woods above the C & O towpath in Maryland. On this moderate figure-8 loop we will walk along a stream, pass by the site of a former gold mine, search for other signs of the area’s past history, and generally enjoy stretching our legs along the shaded path. This natural surface trail can have muddy spots after a rain. The trail is approximately 4.4 miles long with a 410 ft elevation gain. It is mostly rolling hills with a couple of steeper spots. Bring a pole if you like. Our pace will be 2-2.5 mph.

AllTrails map: Valley Trail, Gold Mine and Woodland Trail Loop on AllTrails
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/valley-trail-gold-mine-and-woodland-trail-loop

This hike begins in the lot across the road from the Old Angler’s Inn restaurant. We will meet in the lower lot, but there is often more parking available in the upper lot. There is a bathroom available at the start of the trail.

Please note: This hike begins at 9:30 to help beat the July heat. Please arrive by 9:15 to check
in. We will leave promptly at 9:30.

In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

PLEASE RSVP IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THIS HIKE. DO NOT SHOW UP UNREGISTERED!
If your plans change, please update your RSVP by 6:00 pm the day before to allow sufficient time to fill your spot. Signing out after this will be considered a "no show". Repeated instances may result in being barred from participating in future hikes.

Rock Creek, Northern Section; 6.6 Miles.

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER NOTE

Enjoy this 6.6 mile loop trail in Rock Creek Park. The hike is generally considered a moderate route and takes an average of 3.5 hours to complete. The hike rambles through rolling hills that will make you feel far removed from city life. We will pass by the site of a civil war fort, a "ford" crossing in use in years past, and the cabin of the “Poet of Rock Creek," Joaquin Miller. We also pass by a large community urban garden. There is a fun stream crossing, so feel free to bring a pole if you wish.

The hike will end around 1:00 PM.

The trails are open year-round and beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Toilets are available at the start and finish of the hike.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 9:15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:30

Directions to Trailhead: We meet at the Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium, 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015.

The GPS coordinates are 38.96062, -77.05157

Contact Information: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed.

Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 6.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 630 feet.
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour

Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead

Fees: No entrance fees

Cancellation: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

Saint Mary’s River State Park: A Moderate 8-Mile Hike

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES."

St. Mary's River State Park in Callaway, Maryland, is a hidden natural gem of Southern Maryland, protecting the pristine headwaters of the St. Mary's River watershed. The park is uniquely divided into two distinct sites, offering an expansive sanctuary where dense woodlands, rolling fields, freshwater swamps, and winding streams converge. This rich mosaic of habitats fosters incredible ecological diversity, making it a thriving haven for a vast array of native plant and animal species.

The crown jewel of the park is the breathtaking 250-acre St. Mary's Lake, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility away from more crowded trails. Encircled by a scenic, well-maintained 8-mile loop trail, the park invites hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers to explore its untouched shoreline. Located just north of historic St. Mary's City and near Lexington Park, this peaceful retreat remains a true insider secret among local hikers.

Deeply rooted in the region's heritage, this land carries a history that stretches back millennia. Long before English colonists arrived in the 17th century, the area was home to several Native American tribes, including the Piscataway-Conoy, Algonquin, and Susquehannock peoples. For over 3,000 years, these communities relied on the fertile river valley, leaving behind a rich archaeological legacy. Discoveries of ancient pottery, arrowheads, and stone ax heads along the riverbanks stand as a timeless testament to their enduring connection to this landscape.

Time to Meet:
Please meet at 9:15 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 9:30

Contact Information:
Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leaders is Christa (410-610-6254). Call or text as needed.

Directions to Trailhead:
It is best to use the GPS coordinates. They will take you directly to the parking lot.
The GPS Coordinates are 38.251463, -76.541585
The street address is 21250 Camp Cosoma Road, Callaway, MD 20620

Details:
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 8 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 380 feet
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: There is a toilet near the trailhead
Fees: The day use service charge is credit-card only, $3/vehicle for Maryland residents. Out-of-state residents add $2.
A leashed, well-behaved Fido is allowed on this hike

Cancellation:
In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.