Patapsco Valley State Park – Hilton & Gray Mills Areas: A Moderate 6 or 9 Miles

Patapsco Valley State Park – Hilton and Gray Mills Areas: A Moderate 6 or 9 Mile Hike

This moderate hike explores the natural beauty and unique features of Patapsco Valley through the scenic Hilton and Gray Mills Areas. Choose between a 6-mile core hike or extend your adventure to 9 miles by exploring the park’s popular Cascade Falls section. The route offers a blend of tranquil forest, quirky attractions, historic features, and breathtaking views.

The hike begins by crossing the famous swinging bridge, a hallmark of Patapsco Valley State Park. We then hike in the quieter Hilton Area, venturing into less-traveled parts of the park and ascends into the forested hills via the Sawmill Branch trail, enjoying peaceful woodlands and occasional wildlife sightings. We then hike through the Gray Mills loop, home to a whimsical miniature “Gnome Village” perched on a log—a favorite spot for hikers. Next we hike along the Buzzards Rock trail, which provides striking vistas of an old, still-operational railroad and the historic Patapsco River bridge. We will pause at a scenic overlook before returning to the trailhead to complete the 6-mile loop.

Anyone who wishes can join us for a quick "bring your own lunch" before headed home or going on the extension.

For those seeking a longer trek, join the 3-mile extension through one of Patapsco’s most beloved sections including Cascade Falls. From there, we cross a stream at the Falls and hike through rolling hills and the Upper Cascade Trail system.

The 6 mile hike ends at 1:00. The 9-mile hike will end around 3:00.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00

Directions to Trailhead:
The GPS Coordinates are 39.240879,-76.749977
The Street address to the park entrance is 5120 South St, Halethorpe, MD 21227. After turning into the park, proceed to the end of the road (about 3/4 mile) and turn left over the bridge. Follow the road for another 2 miles or so until you see bathrooms on the LEFT. The parking lot is just pass that point. We will meet near the swinging bridge,

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 to easy side of difficult (for the extended hike)
Distance: 6 or 9.2 miles (your choice)
Elevation Gain: Approximately 450 ft (6 miles), or 730 ft (9.2 miles)
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead
Fees: No entrance fees at this time of year

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.

Weather: The weather for this location can be found here.

Notes:
-Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike.
-Please do not show up unregistered.
-Please keep this a fragrance free event.
-To find out more about PATC, click here.
-Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, click here.