Media Advisory:
Green Ridge State Forest Twin Oaks Trail Ribbon Cutting May 14
WHAT: A ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of the new two-mile Twin Oaks hiking trail at Green Ridge State Forest. This foot trail was constructed as part of a comprehensive effort to respond to the growing demand for trail-related recreation destinations in Western Maryland. An optional 1.5-hour guided interpretive hike on the trail will be offered following the ceremony.
WHO: Representatives from the State Forest and Park Service (SFPS) will be joined by the Maryland State Highway Administration, which provided a Federal Recreation Trail grant to support the project and the Department of Juvenile Service’s Green Ridge Youth Center, which helped to construct the trail.
WHERE: Green Ridge State Forest, Cumberland, Md.
WHEN: Friday, May 14 11 a.m.
WHY: The trail is one of several recent projects in the 44,000 acre forest that have enhanced recreation opportunities, including: (1) a 12-mile mountain bike trail, (2) a new topographic trail guide, (3) two trail bridges over 15-mile Creek and (4) planned interpretive exhibits.
The two-mile long Twin Oaks Trail connects with the Pine Lick Trail to create a four-mile circuit that requires approximately three hours to complete. The trail derives its name from the former Twin Oaks Schoolhouse, which is located near the trail head, and represents the only surviving structure of a one-room schoolhouse in the Forest. Today, the house serves as a private hunting lodge.
An interpretive trail brochure will be provided at the event, which showcases the variety of forest types in different stages of succession that can be seen along the trail. Green Ridge State Forest attracts more than 125,000 visitors each year, who enjoy hunting, camping on more than 100 dispersed campsites, hiking on 30 miles of trails, riding ORVs and fishing seasonally stocked trout streams.
DIRECTIONS
From Cumberland:Other Instructions:
- Take Interstate 68 East to Exit 62, Scenic Route 40 East
- Turn left onto Fifteen Mile Creek Rd.
- Turn left onto Double Pine Rd and travel to the intersection of Double Pine Rd. and Old Cumberland Rd.
- The ribbon-cutting event will be on your right.
The optional guided hike will cross rough terrain, including some climbing and down hill descents. Participants should be in good physical condition and wear quality hiking boots or other sturdy outdoor shoes. Water will be provided. Visitors should bring a snack for the hike.
The event will be held Rain or Shine.
Posted May 13, 2004