PATC Hikes & Events

The Ricketts Glen waterfall hike, 7-mile Falls Trail loop, is a breathtaking, rugged journey through a National Natural Landmark featuring over 22 stunning waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. It is often described as one of the best waterfall hikes in the eastern U.S., characterized by steep, narrow rocky paths, old-growth forests, and lush, dramatic scenery.

Key Details of the Hike:

• The Waterfall Experience: The trail system follows Kitchen Creek through deep gorges, offering views of 21-22 named waterfalls, ranging from 9 to 94 feet.
• Difficulty: This is a challenging hike. It is steep, often muddy, and narrow with many steps and exposed roots.
• Loop Options: The full loop is about 6.3–7 miles, to see the main attractions.
• Scenery: The area is characterized by ancient, old-growth timber and narrow rocky ravines.

Important Tips for Hikers:

• Prepare for Conditions: The trail can be slippery and wet; sturdy footwear is essential.
• Timing: The trail is popular, so it can get crowded. It is highly recommended to visit after recent rain for the best, most "raging" waterfall views.
• Other Advice: While beautiful, the steep, rocky terrain may be difficult for those with bad knees.

We have a 10 am start to accommodate people coming from VA. Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before our start time.
I would recommend staying at a local hotel in Buckhorn or Lightstreet, PA
Meeting location Rt 118 Trailhead parking lot: 41.30030657190196, -76.27232964596247

Notes:

American Chestnut Land Trust Wildlife Management Area: 9.5 Miles

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES"

Nestled in the heart of Southern Maryland, the American Chestnut Land Trust (ACLT) stands as a testament to both the enduring beauty of the region’s wild spaces and the resilience of a conservation movement born from tragedy. Named in honor of the once-mighty American Chestnut tree—a species decimated by the Chestnut Blight introduced at the dawn of the twentieth century—ACLT’s story weaves together natural history, ecological stewardship, and the invigorating experience of hiking through the land it so carefully protects. ACLT once had Maryland's Champion tree, but it fell during a hurricane. Today, the ACLT plants hybrid American Chestnut trees trying to bring these trees back to the park.

The American Chestnut Land Trust is more than a memorial to a vanished tree. It is a vibrant, member-supported non-profit whose mission is to preserve the natural lands, waterways, and habitats of the Parker Creek and Governors Run watersheds. Through community engagement, scientific stewardship, and a tireless commitment to access, ACLT safeguards approximately 3,800 acres of diverse landscapes.

Our journey begins at the ACLT Parkers Creek Wildlife Management Area Parking Area 5. Here, beneath towering oaks hikers start a trek through some of the most pristine wilderness in the region. One of the signature features of this hike is the crossing of Parkers Creek itself—no bridge here any longer, but a raft, tethered by sturdy wires. Hikers must pull themselves hand-over-hand across the placid water.

We will continue on the Parker's Creek Loop and an extension past the Historic Holly Hill Barn, offering a hike through diverse landscapes. From there, the group will continue back to the trailhead as described above via the raft.

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

Directions to Trailhead:
The GPS Coordinates are 38.52690, -76.535510
The GPS coordinates and the best way to find the parking to the trailhead. Otherwise, take Parker Creek Drive off of MD-4 about 4 miles South of Prince Frederick. Follow Parker Creek Road about 4 miles to the ACLT Parkers Creek Wildlife Management Area Parking Area 5.

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

Details
Rating: Moderate to easy side of difficult
Distance: 9.5 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 965 ft
Duration: 5 hours
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Portable Toilets can be found about 2.5 miles into the hike
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.

Patapsco Davis Area, a 6.4 Mile Moderate Hike

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES."

This hike offers a little bit of everything—railroad tracks, a train trestle, tunnel vistas, river scenery, stunning overlooks, several stream crossings, a charming waterfall, and challenging uphill sections. The Davis area of Patapsco Valley State Park, nestled along the Patapsco River in central Maryland, is renowned for its scenic beauty and tranquility. With its lush forests, winding trails, and quiet spots, it also includes a stretch of historic railroad tracks. In addition to riverfront pathways and open fields, the Davis area is perfect for those looking to hike and explore.

Our route follows the Patapsco River and the historic B&O rail line, which has been running trains since 1820 (now part of CSX Transportation Railroad), passing through wooded land before crossing the train trestle. The path ascends into the woodlands, gaining elevation, before descending again alongside the river. You'll enjoy breathtaking views, whether you're down by the water or hundreds of feet above.

There are a few stream crossings so poles are helpful, but not essential. Some areas can be muddy after rain, so you should wear appropriate boots.

Bring a snack to enjoy along the way

A leashed, well mannered Fido is permitted on this hike.