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Hike Description:
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We found a new place to hike! Join us at Schaffer Farms Park in Gaithersburg, MD for either 5 or 10 miles as we hike through woodlands and fields, crossing streams and looking for wildlife. Directions are listed below. Plan to meet at the parking lot near the bulletin board.
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.
First loop: We’ll hike at a moderate pace for about 4-1/2 miles, on rocky trails up and down the rolling hills. The trails are
likely to be muddy, and we will need to cross some streams where you will need to balance on the rocks or wade through water.
These are "joint use" trails so expect to encounter horses and mountain bikers. This loop is rated "B."
This hike is rated "D." For more
information on the rating system, click
here.
Second loop: We will continue at a moderate pace for another 5-1/2 miles over similar terrain. There is one deeper stream
crossing on this loop, and probably more mountain bikers as it gets later in the day. We will stop briefly for water and snacks. If
you hike both loops the rating is "D."
Trail Map
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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). The weather may be either warm or cold this time of year, and mist or rain is also a possibility so 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 lunch or where the wind is blowing. The trails are rocky and steep in spots, and likely to be muddy, so good hiking shoes are a must. Bring snacks for you and your dog.
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.
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.
From the DC Beltway:
To reach this point from the Beltway (1-495) take I-270 North. Look for the big green sign along the freeway "Germantown Rec. Park" and take Exit 15B. This will put you on MD Rt. 118 headed west. Pass the Department of Energy, and proceed 2.2 miles to the light at Md. Rt. 117 (Clopper Rd.) and turn right onto Clopper Rd. Make an immediate left onto Schaeffer Rd. Go 1.3 miles to the traffic circle at Germantown Rec. Park (many soccer fields on both sides.) Continue on Schaeffer Rd. for another ˝ mile to Schaeffer Farms parking area on the left. Follow the sign to "Trailhead Parking" straight ahead. We will meet near the bulletin board in that parking area.
From Columbia and Points North:
Take I-95 south to the DC Beltway and head west (outer loop - toward Silver Spring). From there, follow the directions listed above.
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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 Pat Fuhrer or Jeff Bolognese.
