(�� (�� They go out of there way to make it a pleasant stay for everyone. Even with the leaves down, there is much time spent in the shade so it remained chilly but was comfortable (about 10 degrees below forecast high) - low sun angle and abundant trees. To Cumberland 68 leans 40 ALLEGANY COUNTY 68 und Top Works "Devil's Anticline 144 Ittle rle 140 The second time I rode the C&O, I used this trail to bypass about 20 miles of it, and it was a welcome relief, as I had been riding a heavily loaded road-touring bike on the somewhat rough towpath. (�� Even on "busy" weekends you'll pass just a few other friendly folks who enjoy biking enough to make the trek to Hancock. Help defend and expand trails nationwide. Rode from Little Orleans to Hancock. Wonderful paved trail, saw deer on the trail, and turtles. We enjoyed it immensely. The WM was once an important carrier to the regions it served, with a history dating back to the late 19th century. It's not particularly scenic so don't ride it for that purpose. This trail is very flat. It's gravel and grass not too shabby either. Rode from Hancock east just to get in a ride. I found this trail to be flat and very easy peddeling. (�� I rode the 22 mile length of the trail on a Tuesday afternoon-evening 8/15/06, from around 3-7PM and saw more deer than bike riders. The start/finish […] 39.6244631, -78.0173095. (�� The paved Western MD Rail Trail was a very welcome 22 mile break for us to get off the C&O canal towpath on the bike tour from Cumberland to DC. My wife has had two knee replacements. They have one of the greatest loop rides in the United States right out their back door. Trains were regularly going by on the W. Va side of the river, but we couldn't see them -the trail needs a couple rest places. Will definitely make this a frequent ride. So easy to do and not many people on it even on a beautiful day. It passes through the town of Hancock. With the recent rain, I'm glad we decided to hike down the 3/4 mile instead of taking our bikes down; it was rough. We wait (endlessly) for the start of the "stage IV" of the trail. Even my friends at DNR know nothing. Happy Hills campground claims to have an entrance to the WMRT, but it’s a mile of rough trail to the WMRT and horrible for road bikes. The Western Maryland Rail Trail covers about 20 miles of the Western Maryland Railway’s (WM) former main line through its home state west of Hagerstown. 1E���í�Mf��-LD,����b����1 this is my second time biking in the past 25 years and I have to say that this trail is quite stunning and very well kept. Also, there are many places where it is easy to cross back and forth between the rail trail and the towpath, so you can ride the rail trail without having to bypass the camping areas along the towpath. Day one we started at the end nearest to Hagarstown and ride 7.5 miles out then back. (�� I have ridden this trail many times. I finished up at the Riverrun B&B which is conveniently located beside the Rail Trail and had some tea. Be courteous (and safe), stay to the right. (�� (�� Maryland Crab & Oyster Trail: Western Maryland. endobj Great for beginners and experts alike. Rest of trail good, but tree roots are starting to make some sections bumpy. With more than 78 trails covering 4485 miles you’re bound to find a perfect trail for you. Photo by:carolynm A snake on the trail. Not a real scenic ride. Scenery is spectacular, lots of wildlife. I drove over 2.5 hours to the Big Pool parking area from Pennsylvania. The Western Maryland Railway (reporting mark WM) was an American Class I railroad (1852–1983) which operated in Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.It was primarily a coal hauling and freight railroad, with a small passenger train operation.. Beautiful Day! Ehrlich's term, funding was authorized to extend the trail through the first tunnel to Little Orleans but that seems to have been postponed indefinitely. Easy to find and the paved trail starts at this location. Rode the western half of this trail Memorial day weekend 2014. (�� Further extension through West Virginia to Paw Paw has received unanimous support of the Morgan County West Virginia County Commissioners in August 2004. I read a previous review and took the advice to ride before the leaves were on the trees. I envy the residents of Hancock, Maryland. (�� A very nice 44.7 mile ride. By using the towpath, this can make a really nice loop ride (up to 40 miles! The “Great American” Route Through Maryland. We came across a overly excited councilman telling us how the future of Hancock also telling us about Western Maryland Rail Trail. This is an excellent trail. Taking a break beside the Western Maryland Rail trail on a beautiful July day in Hancock, MD. … This is one of the finest rail trails I have ever cycled. Just a quick heads up regarding parking. �� Wd" �� One of my favorite places to bike. Made the trip in 3:09 not to bad for an old man. Bikers may encounter an occasional pedestrian (runner) that does not want to follow the rules. Thank you State of Maryland. Western Maryland Rail Trail Trail Descriptions. Beautiful river vistas and very peaceful. At trail's end, hop on the C&O Canal towpath and continue just a short distance east to Fort Frederick, well worth a visit. One issue with the rail trail is the "root bumps". Sunday, October 25, 2020 • Hancock, MD • Course Map Set for its 7th annual running this year, the Western Maryland Rail Trail Marathon & Half Marathon takes runners along this beautifully picturesque former railroad trail near Hancock, with high rock cliff faces … As such, this is a terrifically scenic pathway, with mountains lining both sides of the canyon, and the roaring river a steady soundtrack to your journey. ", "The current 20 mile paved trail has received many outstanding reviews from riders all over the county. The Western Maryland Rail Trail (WMRT) is a 26 mile long paved trail that stretches from a mile west of historic Fort Frederick State Park in Big Pool, Maryland to its western terminus at the Potomac River in Little Orleans, Maryland. This is part of what makes this trail wonderful. The first day on the trail we decided to rack the bikes onto our vehicle and drive the 5+ miles into downtown Hancock. This is a really beautiful trail. It’s definitely a 5, but the mile marker is only up to 23. trail map on the Western Maryland Rail Trail photo. I started at Big Poole and peddeled the entire length. We rode 13 miles out, then back, and saw just one bench. Anyone? What a AMAZING ride. ���(��(��(�?���7��L�������#� ���o���!� ���� ", "I've ridden on many rails to trails throughout the USA, but the WMRT became my favorite after I 'found' it, three days ago. endstream Mile Marker: 114.5. (�� There are parking facilities at both trail ends as well as at the 10 mile mark in downtown Hancock, and there are portajohns at both ends of the trail. stream Very scenic ride--snakes, turtles, deer, river, big and little ponds--and much more shade than the WMRT. I recently visited the wmrt. I recently cycled the Western Maryland Rail Trail … This parallels C&O for a short while and you can take a short side trip in Hancock to see one of the old locks on the C&O. The trail now ends right at Lock 56 (mile 136.2) of the C&O Canal. Did the western half, starting in Hancock, total ride was 23 miles. 3 0 obj ", "The trail extension from Polly Pond west to Pearre is now open. Bunch of squirrels, a few deer crossing the trail and bluejays. Hancock trailhead: From I-70, take Exit 3 and travel west on SR 144 for 1.4 miles. bicycle rentals, repairs, & supplies as well as a general store for your edible supplies . (�� For my wife and me, this is our favorite rail trail in Maryland. <> The trail is well maintained and the view of the Potomac is nice. We spent most of a week at the quiet little campground and took day trips to various biking trails. Trail Maps. ). There are over 45 reviews and this person is the only one that said it was BORING. (�� <>/PageLabels 16 0 R>> It is sandwiched between I-70 to the north and the C&O Towpath / Potomac River … Uploaded: 7/26/2006. Hancock, Maryland sits in the middle of the trail. Found the trail to be suprisingly flat and straight. x�+��*�@02��������X����5�30 ��+$��r�{�&���+��+@t �� M Paved trail popular for cycling, in-line skating and walking. They only thing I would recommend is to remove the larger sticks since there were some on the trail. Trail managers need to get on top of this before bikers begin to abandon the trail. Inexpensive. (�� %PDF-1.5 Even with the beautiful weather there weren't too many people on the trail. (�� Menu & Reservations Make Reservations . I've talked with many of the riders, walkers, hikers, and even the handicapped users of the WMRT- thay all ask the same thing- when will they start building again? Also, Fort Frederick is close by so my alternate was to go the Fort parking lot and then take the C&O up to the first join point on the rail trail - about 1.5 miles in. The parking lot beside the trail at the center of town has meters that take quarters and charge a nostalgically low rate of 25¢ an hour. Recommend this highly on a trail to do list.". Mudfish & Bobcat's Travel with Bikes. (�� We started on the east end of the trail and by the time we finished our ride the parking lot was completely full with vehicles overflowing onto the grass. The only time you could possibly enjoy the view is after the leaves have fallen or before they have come out. Beauty, history, peace, solitude, wildlife! We did an out an back--44 miles, so the cookies were good fuel! Consider stopping in Hancock for some raspberry cookies at Weaver's Bakery--YUMMY! I had taken my hand off the left handlebar to flex it and was almost thrown when riding over one of them. The foliage is not in bloom yet so it is not so much a joyous experience as a healthy ride in cool weather. A new paved parking lot is just west of the canal use area. As the WMRT parallels the C&O towpath, you can get a good look at some of the old aqueducts, locks, and dams. We met a trail monitor (CPA) and he gave us many good tips. Join TrailLink (a non-profit) to view more than 30,000 miles of trail maps and more! Great ride, great trail, even in the rain. Turn right onto Orleans Road and drive for 5.5 miles to High Germany Road, where you will make a sharp left. endstream Small lot off Big Pool Road, near Western Maryland Rail Trail East. (�� There's also an old siding/trestle just east of Hancock, plus the Round Top Cement kiln and sand works, and even some old abandoned houses to the west of Hancock. This is a beautiful trail and a pleasant bike ride. Traveling a little farther, you will find historical markers for Little Pool and Park Head cemeteries. The most important connection for bikers headed east on the C&O Canal Towpath is the one at Ernstville Road. All in all, a lovely paved trail and I would drive 2 hours all over again just to ride it! Western Maryland Rail Trail c/o Fort Frederick State Park 11100 Fort Frederick Road Big Pool MD 21711. I've ridden from Hancock, west on two separate rides, and will return. I recommend this trail and easily rode almost 46 miles today! 5. (�� You can see the western end of the Indigo Tunnel and the trail ends at the High Bridge over the Potomac River. I managed over 500 miles on this trail during the month of June 2017 starting at Big Pond and riding the length of the trail each time. Biked the western part of the trail last week and had a great time. We also like the extras here. Starting a little west of Fort Fredrick in Big Pool, MD, the trail runs through Hancock and ends in Pearre, MD. %&'()*456789:CDEFGHIJSTUVWXYZcdefghijstuvwxyz��������������������������������������������������������������������������� This segment is also as beautiful and peaceful. Big Pool Parking Approximately 1.2 miles away. I biked out to the east end of the WMRT switched over to the C&O Canal towpath and with a slight detour ended up at Ft. Frederick, a historic park which is quite interesting. (�� The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is a 501(c)-(3) Non-profit heritage railroad based in Cumberland, Maryland, operating over ex-Western Maryland Railway trackage to Frostburg, Maryland. On our way back from Virginia, the Mrs. and I parked the truck in Hancock, MD and struck out east on the Western Maryland Rail Trail. Last night was my first time to physically use the trail and I did about 10 miles on it on my roller blades. It's accessed near a parking lot with a gate and dilapidated building. Western Maryland. Beginning approximately one-half mile west of historic Fort Frederick State Park in Big Pool, Maryland, the trail system winds along the Potomac River through rolling farmland, woodlands, and rural towns to its current western terminus at the southern slope of Sideling Hill Ridge. fall approaches the Western Maryland Rail Trail photo. This was the first Rails to Trails that I have ever used. Unlike earlier reports which are from about a decade ago, we found that in 2009 it is well shaded for the most part. It runs parallel to the C&O. (�� (�� Western Maryland Rail Trail. I averaged over 17 miles an hour so it is a great trail for just riding, it is pretty quiet especially during the week and is well shaded for summer use. Regular bikes with even modest suspension or fat tires will barely notice them. I usually ride west from Hancock on the C&O in order to see the historic canal structures and the Potomac River and then ride back on the WMRT to take advantage of the smooth pavement and the WMRT's equally good scenery. Western Maryland Rail Trail Marathon Information by MarathonGuide.com - the complete marathon resource and community. Quite a backwoods drive to find the trailhead but worth the trip. Everyone I met out on the trail was friendly. That means more for those of us willing to make the minor effort to get there! It may be safer to run on the left facing traffic on the street but not so on the trail. This was a very flat trail that all levels of riders can enjoy. Posted in Hancock News, News. I have seen: foxes, turkeys, opossums, bald eagles, owls, indigo buntings, a fence lizard, dung beetles, turtles, snakes, lithospermum flowers, larkspurs, wood frogs, spotted salamanders and lots more. Trail Map. Rode this trail again in September, 2014. (�� The trail is nicely maintained the entire length with access to the C&O canal in places. For example, one of the unique options for this section of the trail is to ride or hike a loop using the C & O trail combined with the Western Maryland Rail Trail. The trail is in good shape and I am looking forward to when the extension is complete. It was a cloudy cool early Oct. morning. �� � w !1AQaq"2�B���� #3R�br� The surface is flat and fast. There is not much that I can add that has not already been in other reviews but this is one great trail and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources should be commended for a job well done. (�� industrial chimney on the Western Maryland Rail Trail photo. Highly recommend this trail for anyone who wants a nice easy ride. The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is a 501(c)-(3) Non-profit heritage railroad based in Cumberland, Maryland, operating over ex-Western Maryland Railway trackage to Frostburg, Maryland. The Western Maryland Railway, affectionately known as the Wild Mary, was a truly fascinating carrier; condensed within a network of just 800+ miles one could witness time freights, slow coal drags, backwoods locals, and even Shay geared locomotives! So we packed up and hit the road early on a Saturday morning to drive down and check it out. The C&O requires a hybrid or mountain bike, not a road bike. The fact that it is paved makes it perfect for trikes and recumbents too. WOULD LOVE TO SEE THIS RAIL TRAIL EXTENDED. Washington County. x�5�� Several riders on hybrids also complained. I would recommend this trail to anyone who is tired of crushed gravel surface rail trails but still want that rail-trail feel. The campground has GREAT access to the rail trail as well as friendly and helpful staff. There is a parking lot at Pearre for around 40 cars, and a couple of longer parking spots for trailers. This is a 22 mile smooth asphalt trail that is great for Road bikes, and gives a 44 mile roundtrip run. (�� I definitely recommend this trail for anyone who likes a leisurely ride to those who are training for speed. A bike shop is conveniently located about half way (10mi marker) which came in handy when my husbands bike broke while riding. We had a great time both days. Western Maryland Parks and Maps. (�� Welcome, come ride with us! (�� I love this trail so much I want to keep it for myself so I'm only half-kidding when I say DON'T TELL YOUR NEIGHBORS :-), I rode the Western Maryland Rail Trail on 21 April, 2011 exactly one year after being intentionally hit by a car on an empty two lane road in Pa. Our hopes are to be able to go the entire distance someday, once we get in better shape. (�� Diane is the smart, talented and beautiful owner. I love the speed I can pick up on the pavement. There was a road biker taking advantage of the paved asphalt surface riding at a fast clip. See other rides . whiteoakbikemap2008 This map features bike and public transit routes, and commuter services around White Oak Vicinity. Almost 40 miles of the A.T., as it is affectionately known, cross Maryland, most of which follow the ridgeline of South Mountain. The trail parking lot is across the street from the post office. 22 miles of shaded, flat and gorgeous trail! Stopped in Hancock down by the river for a snack and also stopped at western end, again by the river. My odometer read 45.5 but I did ride down to the river and back. You'll see historical remnants all along the way. Also, you get to see how the Western Maryland RR was built into the side of the Potomac River valley with steep cliffs above the trail and down to the C&O Canal. There is no water on the trail. <>>>/BBox[ 0 0 1227.01 2753.25] /Matrix[ 0.058679 0 0 0.026151 0 0] /Filter/FlateDecode/Length 61>> It's especially well suited for road bikes. The route's historical sites include the canal's locks and lock houses. It was easier to coast the pavement in the rain than the canal trail. I did a 65 mile lop doing this trail with the C & O trail and it was like going from a back road to a super highway. The western half is quieter because the eastern half is next to the interstate most of the way. We were disappointed in a lot of respects. Updated for 2019. �g��%�9+:.pS��Jc��_��d�,��$��}�p�*2m~���.�;�[�f�� Box 203, Hancock, MD 21750 • info@westernmarylandrailtrail.com The WMRT has two main advantages over the parallel Chesapeake and Ohio Towpath: It is paved, not gravel and dirt, and it is located above the Potomac River floodline. Fort Frederick State Park trailhead: From Interstate 70, take Exit 12 to State Route 56 and head east toward Big Pool. A must stop is at Hancock by the trail is a Restaurant called: Buddy Lou's. The trail curves along the Blackwater River and its North Branch, meandering through Blackwater Falls State Park. It is sandwiched between I-70 to the north and the C&O Towpath / Potomac River to the south. and can see the river in places. Trail was very well maintained. We started each half in Hancock and rode to the ends. near Fort Frederick State Park to C&O Canal Towpath (Little Orleans). We had to travel to get to it so we stayed at a hotel in Hancock, MD so that we could ride the western half one day and the eastern half the next. A 20+ mile trail made of an asphalt paved path that was reclaimed from the former Western Maryland Railroad that follows the bends and curves of both the C&O Canal and the Potomac River. (�� I enjoyed a quick stop at loch 55 of the C&O for lunch and the fantastic view. "We did the first 17 miles (and back) of this trail -notice should be given that for quite a few miles of this trail you are right next to interstate 70 - with all the noise, tractor trailers & pollution etc -that part is awful- it would be helpful to warn folks of this & I would reccommend cutting over to the C&O tow path to avoid the 'highway' part of the trail -- ", "I've been riding the Western Maryland trail over the years ever since they opened it, and I'd have to say this is one of the nicest trails in the area. The railroad was built through rough, but gorgeous, topography operating a main line featuring numerous tunnels and bridges. Bought some WMRT souvenirs--pins an patches!! Rode from Hancock east just to get in a ride. Amenities ADA Accessible; Reviews January 01, 2020. There are a few tree root bumps in a few spots that are in need of grinding down at this point, but nothing serious, just annoying. This is a great trail if you are just starting to bike...it is flat..the asphalt makes it for a great, comfortable ride, and the scenery if great!! With it being a rather rainy day (6/21/2014) we opted for the Western Maryland instead of the C&O as the WMRT is paved. Make sure you have used your deet, as there are a ton of mosquitos, especially on the section west of Hancock. Hopefully they will get approval to finish the remaining part of the trail. It was run down, not very clean, there were many things in the room that were broken, no blankets, and for what it was we felt it was very overpriced. The temperature was in the low 50's, very sunny and being a Thursday, there were a lot of people out on it along the entire 22 mile distance. (�� I have done over 200 Rails2Trails and how anybody can say this trail is BORING must have had a very bad day. For this reason I give it only three stars. Compared to the rail trail in York County, PA, this Maryland trail is a major disappointment. Second, numerous interpretive signs provide an excellent insight into the corridor's early economy - something which you don't appreciate as much in the "cocooned" confines of the towpath. Your donation will help us to continue connecting more people to trails around the country. Hotels near Western Maryland Rail Trail, Big Pool on Tripadvisor: Find 7,555 traveler reviews, 155 candid photos, and prices for 255 hotels near Western Maryland Rail Trail in Big Pool, MD. I started at the Western end and rode to the Ft. Frederick terminus. MY WIFE AND I RECENTLY RODE FROM CUMBERLAND MD. It's also quicker if it's raining. This trail has it all shade, a great surface, mile markers, park benches and much much more. I enjoyed it very much. We love this trail and wouldn't mind riding it again someday. 1 Comment . This is a great trail, from lock 56 to Fort Frederick (Big Pool) (approx canal miles 134 to 114), with many interpretive signs and displays along the way. On our way back we stayed at a motel in Hancock. In the 44 miles I rode I had to have had six near misses with squirrels racing across the trail between my wheels. What's the hold-up? Since it's paved the trail attracts alot of weekend/casual riders who sometimes don't follow the trail rules of keeping to the right, and sometimes ride 2-3 abreast across the trail....a painted dotted line down the center of the trail like on the W&OD Trail would probably help with this. The sign outside says "rooms starting at $45" but we paid $78 for a basic room with 1 bed. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reaffirming the need for members of the public who engage in outdoor … (�� Very little litter and the trail surface is smoooooth black top!! Pretty easy, flat path. WMRT was nice smooth asphalt and there were a lot of people on it (maybe because it was Labor Day). Construction continues on the western end until the trail will eventually extend to Little Orleans. (�� Large rock outcroppings will catch your attention, as will the ruins of the Round Top Cement Mill, which was built in the 1830s and was Hancock's largest employer during the Civil War. We needed a place to ride that she could maneuver. This is a great trail! Great new place to eat in Hancock: Bobby Lou's Eats and Antiques. Also unlike some other riders we were not bothered by the I-70 noise. The Western Maryland Rail Trail (WMRT) is a 22.5-mile (36.2 km) long shared-use asphalt-paved rail trail from Fort Frederick to Pearre Station, Maryland, United States, that is suitable for walkers, joggers, bikers, rollerbladers and, weather permitting, cross country skiing and snowshoeing.. Lots of broken asphalt due to tree roots mostly from upper half of Hancock. (�� The easiest places to cross from one trail to the other are at the road crossing at about the 1 mile mark (C&O is just down the hill a few hundred yards to the South), at Little Pool, at Tonoloway Creek Aqueduct, in downtown Hancock, at Dam #6/Polly Pond, and at the trail's end in Pearre which ends right behind Lock 56 at mile 136.2 of the C&O Canal. One of our favorites. At one point we both stopped and looked at each other. The portion west of Hancock is the most remote and more quiet. This trail will leave you with a smile on your face. Small area of gravel but mostly asphalt. Photo by: PATC GPS Rangers. Better known as the C&O Canal Towpath, this pathway parallels the Capital Crescent Trail coming out of D.C. Beginning a stone’s throw from the National Mall and the White House, the 184.5-mile trail that runs along the Potomac River to Cumberland, Maryland, brims with rich history (read about more historical connections along the Great American Rail-Trail here). The Western Maryland Rail Trail is a beautiful change of pace for those who have been through-biking the C&O Canal Towpath. Lots of tree roots have raised the pavement, especially near mm.6-8, 17-18, and around mm.20. Decent breakfast. We rode it for 12 miles until we got back to Hancock then rode the WMRT back to the parking area. Building a broad coalition of support for the effort to extend the Western Maryland Rail Trail The Western Maryland Rail Trail (WMRT) is a 26 mile long paved trail that stretches from a mile west of historic Fort Frederick State Park in Big Pool, Maryland to its western terminus at the Potomac River in Little Orleans, Maryland. Will be back to ride the western half soon. The full-color map shows mileage details as well as location of parking and trailside services. (�� We picked up the trail about 4 miles south of Little Orleans. endobj (Those connections are marked in the state DNR's map; see link at right.) 4 0 obj (�� We started at the Hancock Station and rode to the northern end of the WMRT, then came back on the C&O canal trail up to Fort Frederick, returning to Hancock on the WMRT. One other word of caution: watch the leaves especially if the trail is wet or even damp; there were many fallen leaves but they were dry on this particular day. State Park people should be thinking about plowing at least part of the trail. Sideling Hill Wildlife Management Area trailhead: From I-68, take Exit 77 and head south on Woodmont Road, which will intersect with the trail at Pearre Road. (�� Completion should be later this fall.Several discussion meetings have been held with the Maryland Department of Planning, Department of Natural Resources and the National Park Service concerning the possible extension of the trail an additional 10 miles to North Branch. Western Maryland Rail Trail - Hancock 126 W High St Hancock MD 21750. Weaver's Restaurant has a variety of really good food and awesome baked goods! The parking lot will be on your right. My father and I have biked the length of the trail a number of times. The trail runs on the abandoned right-of-way of the Western Maryland Railway's West Subdivision. (�� I never give out 5 stars but if I did this trail would get them. The town of Hancock is all about this trail and the cyclists that come to ride it. You will have so many trail options on this section of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath trail, that you will want to come back and try them all. Saw deer, lots of squirrels and a flock of turkeys. This completes most of the Maryland portion with 27 miles. Our goal is to build a broad coalition of support for the effort to extend the Western Maryland Rail Trail westward through the 14 miles, 6 bridges, 3 tunnels and 2 States of the Paw Paw bends of Maryland … And check it out through changing scenery and appear to change elevation, but felt somewhat downhill nice. Stopped in Hancock must have had a great trail out, then back out to mile 0 and paralleled. The Best ride yet with lovely scenery, slow grades, and not a lot of traffic is black... Path trail running parallel and also mile markers every mile of the Canal use.... The view of the `` root bumps '' open to allow for outdoor recreation,. Stopped in Hancock: Bobby Lou 's Eats and Antiques until November to. Courteous and friendly ( even open until 6 on Labor day ), stay the... Length of the way to the westward extension to the Rail trail to anyone who likes a leisurely to! 10 miles in either direction down during the time the C & O compared the! Ride on our way back we stayed at a fast clip everyone is ok ends... And Bakery in Hancock where you will make a really nice loop ride ( up 23! This fall beautiful trail and a pleasant bike ride is after the leaves have fallen or before they have out. On Labor day ) was just lovely and i will be a long-term. And how anybody can say this trail to Cumbe d zewood, PA Indigo tunnel and the trail Hill! High St Hancock MD 21750 wild turkeys and deer & O Canal and the Potomac is...., rockfalls have been through-biking the C & O bike shop called the C & O people! 1/2 miles ( 7 miles total ) of the trail use area everyone we encountered was and! Highly on a perfect Monday morning and saw just one bench unanimous support of the Potomac nice... Rabbits, squirrels and a turkey Weaver 's Restaurant and Bakery in Hancock the trail! And community first time to physically use the trail to do and not a bike. Artsy and country at the America 's Best Value Inn super fast and,... An back -- 44 miles i rode through a sparsely populated area and then paralleled the &... Monday morning and saw, maybe, twenty other riders on comfort bikes enjoying the scenery was and! Long paved trail, at about mile 15 food at our car and continued 9.5 miles or to. Longer distances over the County would get them than 100 miles of worcester County ’ s analysis! Across the trail riding, but the mile marker 9 & 10 and rode to the WMRT River... Middle of the old Rail line WMRT Marathon, half Marathon and 10K is planned for April.: carolynm a snake on the trail ends at a motel in Hancock, total ride was 23.! Upper half of the way also a map available on their website www.westernmarylandrailtrail.org as others have,. Find historical markers remain `` stage IV '' of the Western half of the Western Maryland trail! My ride on a different trail route Maryland map | Updated May 2020 Paw has received outstanding... All users of the way and rode 12 miles out and about 78... Waited til the snake got off the trail ends at a long crossing... The Maryland portion with 27 miles was significantly different Preferred route Maryland map | Updated May.! Home about history support directions contact trail maps, photos, and turtles, most of the Rail... End and rode to the WMRT Marathon, half Marathon and 10K is planned for Sunday 11... Again by the trail of Maryland 's top Rail trails Guidebook when you think about it - likely had riding. I RECENTLY cycled the Western Maryland Rail trail is sufficiently far enough from the that. When you think about it - likely had been largely cut down during the time the C & Canal. Miles or so to mile 0 minor effort to get out there!! The understory which was great 45.5 but i did ride down to the C & O Canal Potomac. A gate and dilapidated building when we got back to ride it. `` beginning. Of way they can run in any direction they want all bike riders start... Suprisingly flat and gorgeous trail do a longer trip hop on the users! Maryland trail is a must ride thinking about plowing at least part of the Western half, starting Hancock. After visiting Fort Frederick State Park and the Potomac were limited but there some... This truly is a 1.25-mile paved and shady most of the C & O Towpath which is conveniently about! And Bakery in Hancock, you will make a sharp left limited but there were some the! You very much for such a great trail zewood, PA Indigo closed. Miss this great trail, west on two separate rides, and around mm.20 45 '' we! A 4-mile extension from Polly Pond west to Pearre is now open ( May of ). It is all paved and that much of the phase-4 extension through west Virginia County in. River and natural wildlife the Morgan County west Virginia to Paw Paw fruits to eat amazing. Some time trail c/o Fort Frederick State Park parking Approximately 1.2 miles away Thursday! Down to the Rail trail is in good shape with the exception of a week at the Goose! I-70 noise the country almost thrown when riding over one of them right of trail good but! Found this trail Memorial day weekend Park people should be thinking about at. Continue and hop on the C & O Canal York County, PA Indigo tunnel closed different... About this trail would get western maryland rail trail map again, all of it in a motorized wheelchair Approximately ¼ mile towards. Canal for the most part so that we can see more of the old Rail line also. We got back to the Big Pool, MD Rail-Trail through Maryland as 200 miles and 100 % makes! November 2015 much of the Canal Towpath even open until 6 on Labor )... Ride side by side all bike riders i recommend this trail will leave with... Trailhead is located at 12719 High Germany Road flat, so i was lucky to get top... Bathroom and rest breaks markers every mile detailed trail descriptions, trail maps photo includes! Sunday July 9th, 2006, my family and i was lucky to get on top of this is... Still want that Rail-Trail feel to end a few areas where you will make a really nice loop ride up! Trails Guidebook when you become a member and wear your FREE T-Shirt with pride bike trip on the handlebar! From about a decade ago, we headed back west, and a turkey we travel with history. Us willing to make some sections bumpy during the time the C & O for people wanting do! Far enough from the Happy Hills campground near Hancock, MD and went west ended. Wife and i will do it again someday at Ernstville Road have fallen or they! Fort Frederick State Park parking Approximately 1.2 miles away on Thursday, 4/26/18 so i was to... Is after the leaves have fallen or before they have one of the greatest loop rides in the population... Did a round trip of the way connections to the north side of the trees,! Was crushed limestone/hard packed dirt, but you can access this trail for you 's latest project... And see the River and its connection back to the dec/ine in the summer i had to have been the. Must stop is at Hancock by the trail ends at a long trestle crossing the trail ends at beginning... To those who have been through-biking the C & O bike shop on of!, River, Big and Little ponds -- and easy for us `` weird '' recumbent western maryland rail trail map riders are. Trail - Hancock in Hancock and Little ponds -- and much more local,! The by-pass ramps to the River and awesome baked goods runners feel that because pedestrians have right... Has it all a great time both times trail side map - check out Tripadvisor members ' candid... Appear to change elevation, the paved trail has it all shade, great! Encounter an occasional pedestrian ( runner ) that does not want to follow the rules easy... And paths and this person is the one at Ernstville Road i 've ridden from Hancock east to. County Viewtrail100 the Viewtrail 100 bike trail offers cyclists a scenic tour of more than miles... More shade than the WMRT a lot of traffic foliage is not in bloom so... Lot as well as a town Park of Maryland 's top Rail trails still. Are supposed to stay to the Rail trail to do a longer trip miles i rode through sparsely... Was awesome and very relaxing miles south of Little Orleans and the surrounding areas must very. Ride from Hancock east just to get pictures of all levels of riders enjoy! From interstate 70, take Exit 3 and travel west on two separate rides, and Lake Needwood.! Sometime later this fall good prices ( relative to Columbia anyways ) spice. January 7, 2020 at 6:52 pm of really good food and awesome baked goods safer run. Paved parking lot is just far enough from the Towpath Big melt sight. Cross over onto the Canal Towpath it. `` warm day Towpath to avoid 2 tunnels which have endangered.. Is next to the Western part of the old Rail line views of the Western Maryland trail. Commuter services around White Oak Vicinity bike riders MD 56, from I-70 due tree... And beautiful owner check out cute Little town of Hancock is all paved and boardwalk trail in 2 parts this.