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Our first hike of 2008 will be at Black Hill Regional Park. Black Hill is located near Boyds, MD, north of Gaithersburg off of I-270. Directions are shown below. We will meet in Parking Lot 2 near Shelter "C".
For the exact time to meet at the trailhead, contact one of the hike organizers.
This hike will be limited to 12 people plus dogs.
The hike will be 1 loop of about 5 miles. We'll hike mostly on wooded trails.
Highlights will include an historical boundary marker for the William and Mary
tract of land, the remnants of a swinging bridge, some shiny, new bridges, and
past a new dog exercise area. This hike will also include some stream
crossings and minor "bushwacking".
This hike is rated "B." For more information on the rating system, click here.
Black Hill Regional Park Trail Map
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Follow this link for more information on the Black Hill Regional Park.
As usual, come prepared for the hike. This means appropriate footwear, a hat, and sufficient water for you and your dog (at least a quart for each of you). Be prepared for potential inclement weather. If you dress in layers, you will find it easier to adapt to changing conditions as you heat up while hiking and chill down when stopping for snacks or where the wind is blowing. The trails are rocky and steep in spots, and likely to be muddy or slick with snow. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are a requirement. Bring snacks for you and your dog if you wish.
Basically the main rules we have are that dogs need to stay on leash and under control, and that you scoop your poop. Please bring a 6-8' standard leash for your dog. With a large group, flexible leads can allow people and dogs to trip or tangle, resulting in rope burns or injuries.
In addition, if the hike leaders feel that you are not properly equipped for the hike, or that you or your dog are not physically prepared for the hike, they reserve the right to turn you away at the trailhead.
We'll be hiking rain, snow or sunshine unless there is severe or dangerous weather. If the weather is too hot, too cold or too wet for you on the day of the hike, don't be afraid to sit this one out. We want you to have fun! We have planned other hikes, so if you don't think you'll enjoy yourself this time, just wait for the next hike. However, if you have registered for the hike and need to cancel, please let the hike leader know as soon as possible so we can offer your space to another hiker.
From DC area: Take the beltway to I-270 North toward Frederick. There will be a sign for Black Hill Regional Park at Exit (#18 ) which is MD Rt. 121. Follow Rt. 121 west to "West Old Baltimore Rd." where you will see another sign for Black Hill Regional Park. Turn left and continue on "West Old Baltimore Rd." to the park entrance on the right. (If you go under the freeway overpass you went too far.) Follow Lake Ridge Drive to Shelter "C" at Parking Lot 2.
From Baltimore area: Take I 70 from the Baltimore Beltway to I-270 South. Exit at Rt. 121 and follow the directions above.
| Black Hill Regional Park | Boyds, MD 20841 |
View Larger Map |
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| Click on image for interactive map from Google Maps | |
To register for the hike and to get the details on meeting location and time, or for anything else about this hike or the hiking club in general, please contact Jeff Bolognese or Pat Fuhrer.
