Hike: Appalachian Trl to High Rock (feat. Raven Rocks & Devil's Racecourse)

This Spring Fling is a ~6.5mile moderate hike that has varying, sometimes uneven terrain as well as an INTENSE hill, with a total elevation gain of >1000ft. Pace: 3mph. The trek traverses a northern MD section of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), featuring opulent rocky outcroppings-- aptly nicknaming this trek as the "Rock Show Hike"!

The hike begins with a descent down a road en route to the A.T. Once on the trail, the trek arduously ascends a STEEP hill. After about one-third of the way up, a short spur-loop offers a viewpoint to the West while an array of Rocks lies opposite, colloquially known as "Raven Rocks/ Amphitheater" due to the shape of the landscape-- gaze greatly & you might guffaw at the 'WHACK ZIG-ZAG CRACK' (pictured)!

As the ascent continues, the circuit eventually levels out at the Raven Rocks Shelter-- sign the log book and/or use the Outhouse here as it is a non-stop bop to the top to HIGH ROCK. Upon arrival, the trek frolics through some fields of ferns, before egressing from the tree line, revealing vast views of the farmlands of MD & PA to the north. While exploring the heavily- graffitied rocks, enjoy a Snack/ Lunch break!

The Latter of the circuit retraces its steps back to the junction with the Shelter, then turns east with a snaky switchback descent that saunters past a SUBLIME SPRING. Finally, the hike concludes traversing over the "DEVIL'S RACECOURSE", a sunken river bed with filled with boulders. This is the terminus of the trek as the Trailhead parking lot lies directly beyond... If you listen intently to the river bed, you may hear the flow of water from underneath!

NOTES:
1. Trail Forecast= MAP; AllTrails; Self-made YouTube Video | Boots & Trek Poles advised.
2. Trailhead parking lot has limited capacity, therefore RSVP's are limited... Please consider making CARPOOL arrangements in the Comments if willing, this would allow more attendees to participate :)
3. Remember to pack a snack/ Lunch!