Bill Saunders

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GAMBRILL STATE PARK – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will start from the Upper Parking Lot in Gambrills State Park and perform a loop using a combination of trails. CARPOOLS: leave at 8:30 AM from the Rt. 32 Park & Ride. DIRECTIONS: Exit 80, I-70 W and Rt. 32 N. GPS: 39.315819, -76.950542. Please notify the hike leader if you plan to […]

CATOCTIN TRAIL SERIES: CUNNINGHAM FALLS STATE PARK/FREDERICK MUN. FOREST – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This lollypop hike is the third in a series of 5 hikes that will cover the entire Catoctin Trail (CT) in a southbound direction. We will leave from the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park at 9:15 a.m., then follow the CT south to the Death March Trail. Then we will use the Salamander […]

PVSP: GLEN ARTNEY / HILTON AREAS – 11 M/H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-11 mile loop hike in Patapsco Valley State Park starts at the Southwest Park and Ride and uses numerous trails including Soapstone, Santee Branch, Buzzard Rocks and Grist Mill Trails in the Glen Artney and Hilton areas. Many stream crossings, estimated total ascent of 1,200 feet. Lunch will be near the Ilchester Rocks overlook.

YORK, PA: LAKE WILLIAMS CIRCUIT – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 mile hike will start at the Lake Redman Boat Activities / Boat Ramp Area. We will hike around Lake Williams and on other adjacent trails, with a short visit to the nearby Nature Center. We will hike at a pace of 2.5 –2.7 mph. The total elevation change is approximately 1400 feet. Please […]

NEW HIKE: CALEDONIA STATE PARK: A.T. AND WIGWAM TRAIL – 11H — CANCELLED

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike will begin in Caledonia State Park (north of Gettysburg, )PA and hike along the Appalachian Trail, Locust Gap Trail, and Wigwam Trail in Michaux State Forest. We will pass the Quarry Gap Shelter and its rhododendron tunnel. There are two steep climbs and several moderate stream crossings. The estimated total ascent is […]

PVSP: WOODSTOCK AREA – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at 8:45 a.m. from the Woodstock Road parking area next to the bridge, then follows trails on the Howard County side of PVSP. Total ascent will be about 800 feet. Because of limited parking, the hike will be limited to 15 participants.

GREENBRIAR STATE PARK – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will start from the parking lot above the lake in Greenbriar State Park and hike many of the trails in the park. There are several long climbs and the total ascent is 1600 feet. LEAVE: 9:30 AM from the parking lot above the lake. Take I-70 west to Exit 42; turn right at […]

PVSP: OELLA–PICKALL AREA – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This figure-eight hike starts at Drexel Woods Drive in Baltimore County, hikes south of the Route 40 bridge, and then loops around on several trails before heading north again. We will climb to the Pickall pavilions area before looping back down to the river and returning to the starting point. The estimated ascent is 1100 […]

CUNNINGHAM FALLS STATE PARK AREA (CFSP) – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-11 mile loop hike will start at9:15 a.m. at the Hunting Creek Lake parking lot in CFSP and use the Catoctin and Cat Rock Trails in Cunningham Falls State Park and several trails in Catoctin Mountain Park. The hike has numerous climbs and an estimated ascent of about 1800-2000 feet. Our pace while hiking […]

PVSP: MARRIOTSVILLE ROAD TO SYKESVILLE AREA – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at 8:15 a.m. the Marriotsville Road parking area next to the railroad tracks, then hikes north towards Sykesville using the HoCo / River Road Trail and various side trails. There will be about 1200-1300 feet of ascent. We will have lunch at the stone ruins, then return. BECAUSE OF LIMITED PARKING SPACE, […]

PVSP: SOAPSTONE TRAIL – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 7-8 mile hike in the Glen Artney area of Patapsco Valley State Park will follow the Soapstone Trail and adjacent trails, finishing around noon. There will be a short snack break but no lunch break. The hike has some moderate hills and streams. We will start at 9:15 AM from the Southwest Park-N-Ride, I-195 […]

CUNNINGHAM FALLS STATE PARK/FREDERICK MUN FOREST – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-mile hike will start at 9:15 a.m. at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park. We will follow the Catoctin Trail south for several miles, stop at the White Rock overlook, and then hike on the Salamander Rock Trail and other trails in the northern part of Frederick Municipal Forest before looping back […]

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST / HAMBURG RD – 10H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-mile loop hike in Frederick County will start at 9:15 a.m. from the Catoctin Trail’s Hamburg Road parking area and then follow some of the many trails that network this forest. While the route will vary from hike to hike, there will be several moderate climbs for a total ascent of about 1500 feet […]

FREDERICK MUNICIPAl FOREST CATOCTIN TRAIL LOOP HIKE – 13H

Hike Distance:
13.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-13 loop hike is the fourth in a series of 5 hikes that will travel the entire Catoctin Trail in a southbound direction. We will start at 9:15 a.m. at the Hamburg Road parking area and loop north on various side trails to the Death March Trail / Catoctin Trail intersection, then loop back […]

PVSP: HOLLOFIELD AREA – 10H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will leave at 9:30 a.m. from the Hollofield area of Patapsco Valley State Park and cover trails in the Hollofield / Daniels area.

ROCKBURN BRANCH PARK/PVSP – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This morning hike will use trails in Rockburn Branch Park and the nearby Avalon section of Patapsco Valley State Park. The route will vary, but the hike typically involves rolling hills and there may be several moderate stream crossings. Our pace while hiking will be about 2.5 mph. There will be a short snack break […]

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST / HAMBURG RD – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike will start at Hamburg Road parking area, hike north and then and then cross south of Hamburg Road in a long loop using many trails. We will pass 4 ponds along the route. The estimated total ascent is 1100 feet and there will be several routine stream crossings. Our pace while hiking […]

*CANCELED* – PVSP HOLLOFIELD AREA – 10H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

*CANCELED 06/26/2022* This hike will leave from the Hollofield area of Patapsco Valley State Park and cover trails in the Hollofield / Daniels area. THIS HIKE HAS BEEN CANCELLED AND REPLACED WITH A HIKE IN THE HILTON AREA--SEE THE SEPARATE DESCRIPTION FOR THAT HIKE.

PVSP HILTON / AVALON LOOP – 11H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike in Patapsco Valley State Park will use trails in the Hilton area (including Santee Branch, Buzzard Rocks and Grist Mill Trails) plus the Ridge Trail and Cascade Trail in the Avalon area. There are several moderate stream crossings and an estimated total ascent of 1100 feet. LEAVE: 9:30 A.M. from the Hilton […]

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN PARK – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

The 10-11 mile loop hike will begin at the Thurmont Vista parking area on Park Central Road in the Catoctin Mountain Park (CMP) and follow a long loop through the park, passing Chimney and Wolf Rocks, Hog Rock, the Blue Ridge and Thurmont Vista overlooks, and Cunningham Falls. There will be a total elevation gain […]

CUNNINGHAM FALLS STATE PARK AREA – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This lollipop hike starts at the Manor Area parking area of Cunningham Falls State Park and follows the Catoctin Trail south into Cunningham Falls State Park and Frederick Municipal Forest. Stops at White Rock overlook and Mountaindale Overlook, with a pleasant stretch along the Vandal Trail and Little Fishing Creek. Several long climbs and total […]

SOUTHERN FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

SATURDAY -JULY 30 - ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED This hike starts at Hamburg Road and follows trails in the southern part of Frederick Municipal Forest (including the Volkswagen Trail) and in the northern part of Gambrill State Park. The hike includes a hard climb of 700+ feet over a one-mile section of trail. Please email the […]

PVSP MCKELDIN / NORTH WOODSTOCK AREA – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at the McKeldin area of Patapsco Valley State Park, then hikes on trails between Woodstock Road and Marriotsville Road on the Howard County side of the river. There will be a 10-minute snack break.

GAMBRILL STATE PARK – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

SUNDAY – AUGUST 14 – ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED This hike will start from the Upper Parking Lot in Gambrills State Park and perform a loop using a combination of trails. NOTE: THIS HIKE HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FROM ITS ORIGINAL DATE OF SATURDAY, AUGUST 13.

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST / HAMBURG RD – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-11 mile loop hike in Frederick County will start on the Catoctin Trail’s Hamburg Road parking area and then follow some of the many trails that network this forest. While the route will vary from hike to hike, there will be several moderate climbs for a total ascent of about 1500 feet and several […]

PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK: PICKALL HIKE – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12-mile figure-eight hike starts at Drexel Woods Drive in Baltimore County and uses trails in the Pickall area, and also trails south of the Route 40 bridge. The estimated ascent is 800 feet, our pace while hiking will be 2.5 - 3 mph, and lunch will be in the Pickall area.

BUCK RIDGE / VISTA TRAIL LOOP IN PA – 14H

Hike Distance:
14.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike begins at Pine Grove Furnace State Park in PA. We will use the Buck Ridge Trail to hike to Hammond’s Rock Overlook for lunch, descend on the Vista Trail, and then climb to the Pole Steeple Overlook before returning on the A.T. The total estimated ascent is 2000 feet. Please email me […]

PVSP HILTON AREA – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike in Patapsco Valley State Park will use trails in the Hilton area including the Santee Branch, Buzzard Rocks and Grist Mill Trails. There are several moderate stream crossings and an estimated total ascent of 900 feet.

ROCKBURN BRANCH PARK/PVSP AVALON AREA – 9M – RESCHEDULED FROM 9/10/2022

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 9+ mile loop hike will begin on trails in Rockburn Branch Park and then quickly cross over to the nearby Avalon section of Patapsco Valley State Park. The hike has numerous moderate stream crossings and rolling hills. There will be about 1200 feet of ascent, and our pace while hiking will be about 2.5 […]

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST / HAMBURG RD – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 mile loop hike in Frederick County will start on the Catoctin Trail’s Hamburg Road parking area and then use the Catoctin Trail and the Death March Trail as well as other adjoining trails. The hike has one long steep climb and several moderate climbs for a total ascent of 1800 feet, and several […]

CALEDONIA STATE PARK: A.T. AND WIGWAM TRAIL – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike will begin in Caledonia State Park, PA and hike along the Appalachian Trail, Locust Gap Trail, and Wigwam Trail in Michaux State Forest. We will pass the Quarry Gap Shelter and its rhododendron “tunnel.” There are two steep climbs and several moderate stream crossings. The estimated total ascent is 1700 feet. Please […]

PVSP SOAPSTONE TRAIL – 8 M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

SUNDAY – OCTOBER 2 – ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED This 7-8 mile hike in the Glen Artney area of Patapsco Valley State Park will follow the Soapstone Trail and adjacent trails, finishing around noon. There will be a snack break but no lunch stop. The hike has some moderate hills and streams.

Canceled PATUXENT RIVER PARK / JUG BAY – 14H

Hike Distance:
14.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

WEDNESDAY – – ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED This 13-14-mile loop hike will use trails in the Jug Bay Natural Resources Area of Patuxent River Park in Upper Marlboro. Much of the hike will be on wooded trails with mild rolling hills, but there will be several miles of trail near the marshlands, and we will visit […]

SAND FLATS HIKE – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

SATURDAY – OCTOBER 9 – ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED This loop hike will follow numerous trails in the northern part of Frederick Municipal Forest, including part of the Salamander Rock Trail. We’ll pass several ponds and picturesque rock formations. Total elevation change is 1000 feet. Because of the small parking lot at the trailhead, hikers must […]

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST: HAMBURG ROAD / SAND FLATS LOOP – 12H- CANCELLED

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

NOTE: BECAUSE OF A BIKE EVENT TAKING PLACE ON OCTOBER 23 IN THE FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST, I HAVE CANCELLED THIS HIKE AND REPLACED IT WITH A HIKE IN CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN PARK. This 11-12 mile loop hike will start at the Hamburg Road parking lot, hike north to the Sand Flats area and then return on […]

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN PARK – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

The 10-11 mile loop hike will begin at the Thurmont Vista parking area on Park Central Road in the Catoctin Mountain Park (CMP) and follow a long loop through the park, passing Chimney and Wolf Rocks, Hog Rock, the Blue Ridge and Thurmont Vista overlooks, and Cunningham Falls. There will be a total elevation gain […]

GREENBRIAR STATE PARK – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

SUNDAY – OCTOBER 30 – GREENBRIAR STATE PARK – 11H ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED This 10-11 mile hike will start from the parking lot above the lake in Greenbriar State Park and hike many of the trails in the park. There are several long climbs and the total ascent is 1600 feet. Please email the hike […]

PVSP SOAPSTONE TRAIL – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike in the Glen Artney area of Patapsco Valley State Park will follow the Soapstone Trail and adjacent trails. There will be a snack break but no lunch stop. The hike has some moderate hills and stream crossings.

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST / HAMBURG RD – 9-10 M/H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 9-10 mile loop hike in Frederick County will start on the Catoctin Trail’s Hamburg Road parking area and then follow some of the many trails that network this forest. While the route will vary from hike to hike, there will be several moderate climbs for a total ascent of about 1500 feet and several […]

Canceled CUNNINGHAM FALLS SP/FREDERICK MUN FOREST – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-mile hike will start at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park. We will follow the Catoctin Trail south for several miles, stop at the White Rock overlook, and then hike on the Salamander Rock Trail and other trails in northern part of Frederick Municipal Forest before looping back to the Catoctin Trail […]

CUNNINGHAM FALLS SP/FREDERICK MUN FOREST – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-mile hike will start at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park. We will follow the Catoctin Trail south for several miles, stop at the White Rock overlook, and then hike on the Salamander Rock Trail and other trails in northern part of Frederick Municipal Forest before looping back to the Catoctin Trail […]

PVSP HOLLOFIELD AREA – 10H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will leave from the Hollofield area of Patapsco Valley State Park and cover trails in the Hollofield / Daniels area.

PVSP PICKALL AREA – 9M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This figure-eight hike starts at Drexel Woods Drive in Baltimore County, hikes south of the Route 40 bridge, and then loops around on several trails before heading north again. We will climb to the Pickall pavilions area before looping back down to the river and returning to the starting point. The estimated ascent is 1100 […]

GAMBRILL STATE PARK – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will start from the Upper Parking Lot in Gambrills State Park and perform a loop using a combination of trails. Please email me at trailsaunders@gmail.com if you plan to meet at the trailhead rather than carpool.

Hamburg Road / Salamander Rock / Death March Loop – 14H

Hike Distance:
14.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike, which I estimate to be 14 miles in length, will start at the Hamburg Road parking lot, hike north through Sand Flats to the Salamander Rock Trail, then return using the Iceberg and Death March trails. The estimated total ascent is 1900 feet and there will be several routine stream crossings. Our […]

FRED. MUN FOREST: HAMBURG ROAD / SAND FLATS LOOP – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 mile loop hike will start at the Hamburg Road parking lot, hike north to the Sand Flats area and then return on a variety of trails including the Catoctin, Sand Flats, Iceberg and Death March trails. The estimated total ascent is 1600 feet and there will be several routine stream crossings. Our pace […]

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN PARK – 11H – CANCELLED

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

The loop hike will begin at the Thurmont Vista parking area on Park Central Road in the Catoctin Mountain Park (CMP) and follow a long loop through the park, passing Chimney and Wolf Rocks, Hog Rock, the Blue Ridge and Thurmont Vista overlooks, and Cunningham Falls. There will be a total elevation gain of about […]

PVSP WOODSTOCK TO ALBERTON – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 mile hike starts at the Woodstock Road parking area next to the bridge, then goes south on the Baltimore County side of the Patapsco River. We will hike all the way to the Alberton Trail and view the ruins of the old Guilford community, then return to the starting point. The total ascent […]

PVSP WOODSTOCK AREA – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at the Woodstock Road parking area next to the bridge, then follows trails on the Howard County side of PVSP between Woodstock and Daniels Roads. Total ascent will be about 1100 feet.

SOUTHERN FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at Hamburg Road and follows trails in the southern part of Frederick Municipal Forest and in the northern part of Gambrill State Park. The hike will include one or two hard climbs of 700+ feet over a one-mile section of trail.

CUNNINGHAM FALLS STATE PARK MANOR AREA – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This lollipop hike starts at the Manor Area parking area of Cunningham Falls State Park and follows the Catoctin Trail south into Cunningham Falls State Park and Frederick Municipal Forest. Stops at White Rock overlook and Mountaindale Overlook, with a pleasant stretch along the Vandal Trail and Little Fishing Creek. Several long climbs and total […]

GREENBRIAR STATE PARK – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-11 mile hike will start from the parking lot above the lake in Greenbriar State Park and hike many of the trails in the park. There are several long climbs and the total ascent is 1600 feet. Please notify the hike leader if you plan to meet at the trailhead rather than carpool.

YORK, PA: LAKE REDMAN HIKE – 11 H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-11 mile hikes is on trails in the woods near Lake Redman in the York, PA watershed, with some hills and occasional views of the lake.  We will hike at a pace of about 2.5 – 3 mph and have near the lake. The total elevation change is approximately 1500 feet.

PVSP HILTON AREA – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike in Patapsco Valley State Park will use trail in the Hilton area including Santee Branch, Buzzard Rocks and Grist Mill Trails. Several moderate stream crossings (consider bringing hiking poles for the crossings), estimated total ascent of 900 feet.

PVSP Avalon Area: 9-10 Mile M/H Hike

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This moderate-to-hard hike loop hike will cover a distance of 9-10-miles on trails in the Avalon area of Patapsco State Park.

Southern Frederick Municipal Forest Trails – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 mile hike starts at Hamburg Road and follows trails in the southern part of Frederick Municipal Forest (including the Volkswagen Trail) and in the northern part of Gambrill State Park. The hike includes a hard climb of 700+ feet over a one-mile section of trail. Please email the hike leader if you plan […]

CATOCTIN TRAIL SERIES #1 – GAMBRILL STATE PARK TO HAMBURG ROAD– 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-mile loop hike is the first of a series of 5 hikes that will cover the entire Catoctin Trail) in a northbound direction. We will start from the Upper Parking Lot in Gambrills State Park and follow the Catoctin Trail north to Hamburg Road. Then we will return to Gambrills using the Power Line […]

MARYLAND A.T.: – PENMAR TO RAVEN ROCK – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will start from the PenMar Park parking lot and hike south on the A.T. to Raven Rock Shelter and return, with side trips to the High Rock overlock and the Devils Race Course. We will have lunch at the shelter. Please email me at trailsaunders@gmail.com if you plan to meet at the trailhead […]

PVSP WOODSTOCK AREA – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at the Woodstock Road parking area next to the bridge, then follows trails north of Woodstock Road on the Howard County side of PVSP. Total ascent will be about 800 feet. Because there is limited parking, the hike will be limited to 18 participants.

PVSP OELLA-PICKALL AREA – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at Drexel Woods Drive in Baltimore County and hikes north to the Pickall pavilions area before looping back down to the river and returning to the starting point. The estimated ascent is 1100 feet, with several moderate climbs. Our pace while hiking will be 2.5 – 2.7 mph.

GREAT FALLS AREA AND BILLY GOAT TRAIL – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will begin at Carderock and follow a variety of trails (including the Billy Goat A and C trails, the C&O Canal towpath, and various wooded trails) in the Great Falls Area. The hike includes several overlooks, including a walk on the Great Falls Overlook boardwalk. Note that the Billy Goat A Trail is […]

GREAT FALLS AREA AND C&O CANAL – 11M/H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike is a companion hike to the 12H harder version that includes the Billy Goat A Trail. This less strenuous version will also begin at Carderock and follow a variety of trails (including the Billy Goat C trails, the C&O Canal towpath, and various wooded trails) in the Great Falls Area. The hike includes […]

CATOCTIN TRAIL SERIES: FREDERICK MUN.FOREST TRAIL LOOP HIKE – 13H

Hike Distance:
13.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-13 loop hike is the second in a series of 5 hikes that will travel the entire Catoctin Trail) in a northbound direction. We will start on the Hamburg Road parking area and then follow the Catoctin Trail north to the Death March Trail, then loop back to Hamburg Road on various side trails. […]

ROCKBURN BRANCH PARK/PVSP – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will begin on trails in Rockburn Branch Park and then quickly cross over to the nearby Avalon section of Patapsco Valley State Park. The hike has numerous moderate stream crossings and rolling hills. There will be about 1200 feet of ascent, and our pace while hiking will be about 2.5 mph. There will […]

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST – 10M

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 9-10 loop hike will start at Hamburg Road parking area and hike various trails in the area. The estimated total ascent is 1100 feet and there will be several routine stream crossings. Our pace while hiking will be 2.5 – 2.7 mph. Please email me at trailsaunders@gmail.com if you plan to meet at the […]

PVSP MARRIOTSVILLE ROAD TO SYKESVILLE AREA – 13H

Hike Distance:
13.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-13 mile hike starts at the Marriotsville Road parking area next to the railroad tracks, then hikes north towards Sykesville using the HoCo / River Road Trail and various side trails. There will be about 1200-1300 feet of ascent. We will have lunch at the stone ruins, then return. BECAUSE OF LIMITED PARKING SPACE, […]

GREENBRIAR STATE PARK – 10-11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will start from the parking lot above the lake in Greenbriar State Park and hike many of the trails in the park. There are several long climbs and the total ascent is 1600 feet. Please email me at trailsaunders@gmail.com if you plan to meet at the trailhead rather than carpool.

CATOCTIN TRAIL SERIES: MANOR AREA TO FREDERICK MUN FOREST – 12H – CANCELLED

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This lollypop hike is the third in a series of 5 hikes that will cover the entire Catoctin Trail (CT) in a northbound direction. We will start at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park, then follow the CT south for several miles. After a stop at the White Rock overlook, we will use […]

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST: HAMBURG ROAD / SAND FLATS LOOP – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 mile loop hike will start at the Hamburg Road parking lot, hike north to the Sand Flats area and then return on a variety of trails including the Catoctin, Sand Flats, Iceberg and Death March trails. The estimated total ascent is 1600 feet and there will be several routine stream crossings. Our pace […]

PVSP MCKELDIN AREA – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will cover most of the trails in the McKeldin area of Patapsco Valley State Park.

PATUXENT RIVER PARK / JUG BAY – 14H

Hike Distance:
14.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 13-14-mile loop hike will use trails in the Jug Bay Natural Resources Area of Patuxent River Park in Upper Marlboro. Despite the length of the hike, the trails are not difficult; there are no rocks and few large hills. Much of the hike will be on wooded trails with mild rolling hills, but there […]

PVSP HOLLOFIELD AREA – 10H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will leave from the Hollofield area of Patapsco Valley State Park and cover trails in the Hollofield / Daniels area.

SOUTHERN FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at Hamburg Road and follows trails in the southern part of Frederick Municipal Forest (including the Volkswagen Trail) and in the northern part of Gambrill State Park. The hike will include one or two hard climbs of 700+ feet over one-mile sections of trail. PLEASE NOTIFY THE HIKE LEADER WHETHER YOU PLAN […]

CATOCTIN TRAIL SERIES: MANOR AREA TO CUNNINGHAM FALLS– 13H

Hike Distance:
13.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-13 mile hike is the fourth in a series of 5 hikes that will cover the entire Catoctin Trail (CT) ) in a northbound direction. Starting at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park, we will follow the CT north for several miles to Cunningham Falls for lunch, then return to the Manor […]

PVSP SOAPSTONE TRAIL – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike in the Glen Artney area of Patapsco Valley State Park will follow the Soapstone Trail and adjacent trails, finishing around noon. There will be a snack break but no lunch stop. The hike has some moderate hills and stream crossings.

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST / HAMBURG RD – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike in Frederick County will start on the Catoctin Trail’s Hamburg Road parking area and then use the Catoctin Trail and the Death March Trail as well as other adjoining trails. The hike has one long steep climb and several moderate climbs for a total ascent of 1800 feet, and several stream crossings. […]

CUNNINGHAM FALLS STATE PARK AREA – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This lollipop shaped hike will start at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park. We will follow the Catoctin Trail south for several miles, stop at the White Rock overlook, and then branch off onto a series of side trails. We will have lunch at the Mountaindale Overlook before looping back on other side […]

PVSP OELLA-PICKALL AREA – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 mile hike starts at Drexel Woods Drive in Baltimore County and covers trails both south of the Route 40 bridge and in the Pickall area. The estimated ascent is 1400 feet, with several moderate climbs. Our pace while hiking will be 2.5 – 2.7 mph.

CATOCTIN TRAIL SERIES” CUNNINGHAM FALLS TO CATOCTIN TRAIL NORTH END – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12 mile hike is the fifth in a series of 5 hikes that will cover the entire Catoctin Trail (CT) ) in a northbound direction. We will start at the Hunting Creek Lake parking lot in Cunningham Falls State Park and hike north on the Catoctin Trail to its north end in Catoctin Mountain […]

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike will start at Hamburg Road parking area and hike various trails in the area. The estimated total ascent is 1100 feet and there will be several routine stream crossings. Our pace while hiking will be 2.5 – 2.7 mph. Please inform the hike leader whether you plan to meet at the trailhead […]

BUCK RIDGE/POLE STEEPLE TRAIL LOOP IN PA – 13H

Hike Distance:
13.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike begins at Pine Grove Furnace State Park in PA. We will use the Buck Ridge Trail to climb a ridge, then descend on the Bong Trail, and then climb to the Pole Steeple Overlook before returning on the A.T. The total estimated ascent is 1700 feet. Please inform the hike leader whether […]

GAMBRILL STATE PARK – 10M/H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will start from the Upper Parking Lot in Gambrills State Park and perform a loop using a combination of trails. Please email me at trailsaunders@gmail.com if you plan to meet at the trailhead rather than carpool. LEAVE: 9:15 AM from the Upper Parking Lot. Please inform the hike leaders whether you plan to […]

PVSP WOODSTOCK TO ALBERTON – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 mile hike starts at the Woodstock Road parking area next to the bridge, then goes south on the Baltimore County side of the Patapsco River. We will hike all the way to the Alberton Trail and view the ruins of the old Guilford community, then return to the starting point. The total ascent […]

Catoctin Trail #3: Manor Area to Death March Trail – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

THIS HIKE IS A RESCHEDULING OF THE CATOCTIN TRAIL SERIES HIKE THAT WAS RAINED OUT IN APRIL 2023. This lollypop hike is the third in a series of 5 hikes that will cover the entire Catoctin Trail (CT) ) in a northbound direction. We will start at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park, […]

Emmitsburg, MD: Trails Above the Grotto – 6H

Hike Distance:
6.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hard 6-mile hikes starts at the parking lot for the Lady of Lourdes Shrine at Mount St. Mary’s University, and hikes up the mountain to visit the Indian Lookout and the Carrick View overlooks. Despite the short distance of the hike, there is a total ascent of 1400+ feet, with two 500+ feet climbs. […]

Event Series Patapsco Valley State Park: Pickall Area 12H

Patapsco Valley State Park: Pickall Area 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 11-12 -mile hike starts at Drexel Woods Drive in Baltimore County and includes trails both north and south of the Route 40 bridge. We will climb to the Pickall pavilions area for lunch before looping back down to the river and returning to the starting point. The estimated ascent is 1500 feet, with several […]

SOUTHERN FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-11 mile hike starts at Hamburg Road and follows trails in the southern part of Frederick Municipal Forest and in the northern part of Gambrill State Park. The hike includes a hard climb of 700+ feet over a one-mile section of trail. Please inform the hike leader whether you plan to carpool or meet […]

GAMBRILL STATE PARK – 1OH

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike will start from the Upper Parking Lot in Gambrills State Park and use a combination of trails in the park. Please inform the hike leader if you plan to meet at the trailhead or carpool.

ROCKBURN BRANCH PARK/PVSP – 9M

Hike Distance:
9.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 8-9 mile hike will use trails in Rockburn Branch Park and the nearby Avalon section of Patapsco Valley State Park. The route will vary, but the hike typically involves rolling hills and there may be several moderate stream crossings. Our pace while hiking will be about 2.5 mph. There will be a short snack […]

GREENBRIER STATE PARK – 11H – CANCELLED

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-11 mile hike will start from the parking lot above the lake in Greenbriar State Park and hike many of the trails in the park. There are several long climbs, and the total ascent is 1600 feet. Please notify the hike leader whether you plan to meet at the trailhead or carpool.

FREDERICK MUNICIPAL FOREST / HAMBURG RD – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 10-11 mile loop hike in Frederick County will start at the Hamburg Road parking area and then follow some of the many trails that network this forest. While the route will vary from hike to hike, there will be several moderate climbs for a total ascent of about 1500 feet and several stream crossings. […]

CUNNINGHAM FALLS SP/FREDERICK MUN FOREST – SALAMANDER ROCK TRAIL LOOP – 13H

Hike Distance:
13.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 13-mile hike will start at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park. We will follow the Catoctin Trail south for several miles, stop at the White Rock overlook, and then hike on the Salamander Rock Trail and other trails in the northern part of Frederick Municipal Forest before looping back to the Catoctin […]

CANCELLED – York, PA – Lake Williams Circuit (Nature Center Start) – 10MH

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at the Richard Nixon Nature Center and hikes trails in the woods surrounding Lake Williams in the York, PA watershed, with moderate hills and pleasant views of the lake. We will hike at a moderate pace of about 2.5 mph. Please email me at trailsaunders@gmail.com if you plan to meet at the […]

YORK, PA – LAKE WILLIAMS CIRCUIT (NATURE CENTER START) – 10M+

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate Plus
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at the Richard Nixon Nature Center and hikes trails in the woods surrounding Lake Williams (which is drained at this time due to work on the dam) in the York, PA watershed, with moderate hills and pleasant views of the lake. We will hike at a moderate pace of about 2.5 mph. […]

FRED. MUN FOREST: HAMBURG ROAD/DEATH MARCH LOOP – 13H

Hike Distance:
13.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12-13 mile loop hike will start at the Hamburg Road parking lot and hike north and return to the starting point using a combination of trails include the Catoctin and Death March trails. The estimated total ascent is 1700 feet and there will be several routine stream crossings. Our pace while hiking will be […]

PVSP Hilton Area – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike in Patapsco Valley State Park will use trails in the Hilton area. Several moderate stream crossings (consider bringing hiking poles for the crossings), estimated total ascent of 800 feet.

Manor Area / Salamander / Trail -13H

Hike Distance:
13.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 13-mile hike will start at the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park. We will follow the Catoctin Trail south for several miles, stop at the White Rock overlook, and then hike on the Salamander Rock Trail and other trails in northern part of Frederick Municipal Forest before looping back to the Catoctin Trail […]

Manor Area / Vandal Trail Loop – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This lollipop hike starts at the Manor Area parking area of Cunningham Falls State Park and follows the Catoctin Trail south into Cunningham Falls State Park and Frederick Municipal Forest. Stops at the White Rock overlook and the Mountaindale Overlook, with a pleasant stretch along the Vandal Trail and Little Fishing Creek. Several long climbs […]

PVSP WOODSTOCK AREA – 10M+ — REVISED HIKE

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate Plus
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

NOTE: THIS HIKE REPLACES THE OELLA-PICKALL SCHEDULED FOR THIS DATE BECAUSE OF A BIKING EVENT AT PICKALL. This 10-mile hike starts at the Woodstock Road parking lot and hikes south on the Baltimore County side of the river before looping back on other trails. We will have lunch along the trail. The estimated ascent is […]

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN PARK – 11H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

The 10-11 mile loop hike will begin at the Thurmont Vista parking area on Park Central Road in the Catoctin Mountain Park (CMP) and follow a long loop through the park, passing Chimney and Wolf Rocks, Hog Rock, the Blue Ridge and Thurmont Vista overlooks, and Cunningham Falls. There will be a total elevation gain […]

PVSP HILTON AREA – 10H

Hike Distance:
10.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This loop hike in Patapsco Valley State Park will use trails in the Hilton area (including Santee Branch, Buzzard Rocks and Grist Mill Trails) as well as the new Greys Mill Trail. There are several moderate stream crossings and an estimated total ascent of 1200 feet.

PVSP OELLA-PICKALL AREA – 12H

Hike Distance:
12.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This 12 mile hike starts at Drexel Woods Drive in Baltimore County, hikes south of the Route 40 bridge, and then loops around on several trails before heading north again. We will climb to the Pickall pavilions area before looping back down to the river and returning to the starting point. The estimated ascent is […]

MARYLAND A.T.: PENMAR TO RAVEN ROCK – 10H

Hike Distance:
11.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Hard
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike will start from the PenMar Park parking lot and hike south on the A.T. to Raven Rock Shelter and return, with stop at the High Rock overlock. The hike includes a long steep climb up the rocky High Rock slope. Please indicate if you plan to carpool or meet at the trailhead.

PVSP WOODSTOCK AREA – 8M

Hike Distance:
8.0 Miles
Hike Difficulty:
Moderate
Hike Leader:
Bill Saunders

This hike starts at the Woodstock Road parking area next to the bridge, then follows trails on the Howard County side of PVSP. Total ascent will be about 800 feet. Because there is limited parking, the hike will be limited to 18 participants.