This hike has it all - scenic vistas, 19th century history, a few tough climbs, and the probably haunted remains of an old monastery. All packed in to under six miles!

We'll start from the main parking lot at the Hilton Area and head north along the Santee Branch and Sawmill trails. Then we'll cut over to the Buzzard Rock lookout and descend the fairly steep trail to the paved Grist Mill Trail. We'll cross the river and pay a visit to the ruins of the former monastery across the street (and up five flights of stone steps) and the spooky painted altar in the picture above. Then back up the Sawmill Branch trail up the hill back to our cars. This does have some steep/strenuous parts, so is not recommended for brand new hikers. Please wear appropriate footwear and bring water!

[You can follow our route using Alltrails at this link.](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-november-12-2023-30d0da2?u=i&sh=5s9wgt)

Total distance should be around five and half miles and total elevation gain is about 700', spread evenly through three fairly strenuous hills. Unless we spend a ton of time taking sacrificial photos at the spooky altar, we should be wrapped up around 1:30. Please arrive with time to get laced up and start promptly at 10:30. We don't wait for latecomers.

Hopefully you'll have worked up an appetite. You'll need it for the [Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar](http://www.thecrazymason.com/) in Ellicott City, which is where I'm heading afterwards to recklessly replenish my hard-burned calories..

Matt Abel

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Hike Patapsco State Park Hilton Area plus SPOOKY ruins - 5.5 miles

Patapsco Valley State Park - Hilton Area

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Mmmm Hiking: Moderate Hikes for MD Middle-Aged & Millennials

Hike Patapsco State Park Hilton Area plus SPOOKY ruins - 5.5 miles

Mmmm Hiking: Moderate Hikes for MD Middle-Aged & Millennials

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