ACLT, Holly Hill Barn & Parker Creek Loop: a 7 or 10 Mile Moderate Hike

American Chestnut Land Trust: Historic Holly Hill Barn & Parker Creek Loop, a Moderate 7 or 10 Mile Hike

The American Chestnut Land Trust (ACLT) is named for the American Chestnut tree, once dominant in eastern forests and a symbol of resilience. Tragically, the introduction of the Chestnut Blight in the early 1900s devastated the species, leaving a lasting impact on the region’s ecology. The Trust once hosted Maryland’s Champion Chestnut tree, which fell during a hurricane, but the park is busy planting hybrid American Chestnut trees in hopes of restoring this iconic species to its rightful place in the park. We do not pass chestnut trees and hybrids on this hike

The American Chestnut Land Trust is an active, member-supported nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the natural lands, waterways, and habitats of the Parker Creek and Governors Run watersheds. Through community engagement, scientific stewardship, and a steadfast commitment to public access, ACLT safeguards approximately 3,800 acres of rich, varied terrain, ensuring that these lands remain protected for generations to come.

This hike explores the history and natural beauty of ACLT, focusing on the Historic Holly Hill Barn and the Parker Creek Loop—offering hikers a moderate adventure through diverse landscapes. The hike begins with a journey to the historic Holly Hill Barn, continues on Parkers Creek Loop and offers as an option the hike to the Bay and Parkers Creek Overlook. The overlook and the relocated section of the Parker Creek Loop provide open vistas in the winter months, allowing hikers to appreciate both the grandeur of the Chesapeake Bay and the tranquility of the creek.

A highlight of the route is the recently restored 19th-century Holly Hill tobacco barn. The barn stands as a historical landmark, reminding hikers of the generations who worked this land and the ongoing efforts to preserve local heritage.

The trails consist of dirt paths and former wagon roads, winding through mature forests and cultivated farmland. You may choose between a 7-mile loop (ending around 1:30 PM) or a 10-mile loop (ending around 3:30 PM).

Bring a lunch to enjoy along the way.

A well-trained Fido on a leash is welcome on this hike.

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

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

Directions to Trailhead:

676 Double Oak Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678

The GPS Coordinates are 38.547298, -76.533322

Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 7 or 10 miles
Elevation Gain: 600 ft (for7 miles), 1000 ft. (for 10 miles)
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: There is a portable toilet near the trailhead
Fees: no 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.

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.