| Mountain Biking | |
|---|---|
| Location | Herrington Manor State Park, 301-334-9180 Swallow Falls State Park, 301-334-9180 Potomac-Garrett State Forest, 301-334-2038 Garrett County |
| Trail Maps | Trail maps of Herrington Manor and Swallow Falls State Parks are available for sale at the Herrington Manor State Park office, as well as at the concession stand during the summer season. |
| Trail Access | Herrington Manor State Park trail head is located at the rear of the large parking lot near the lake. Swallow Falls State Park trail head is located at the rear of youth group camping site #2. Parking is available at both ends of the trail heads. |
| Distance | 5.5 miles one way |
| Time | 1 hour each way |
| Trail | Primarily single track Rocky, fairly level Trail is marked with white blazes |
| Skill Level | Beginner |
| Suitable For Families? | Yes |
| Hazards/Restrictions | Rocky, high water problems |
| Potable Water | None |
| Natural Features | Hardwood forest Coniferous streamside Wildlife includes deer, wild turkey, black bear and beaver |
| Historic/Cultural Features | Old tram road used for logging in the late 1800's |
| Bike Rentals/Service | High Mountain Sports, 301-387-4199 |
| Camping | Swallow Falls State Park offers 65 wooded campsites with modern bathhouses. Swallow Falls campground is closed from mid December through mid April. Potomac-Garrett State Forest offers 36 primitive campsites, located in Snaggy Mountain Recreation Area. |
| Other Points of Interest | Approximately 8 miles of mountain biking trails. Snowmobile trails designated with flourescent green blazes in the Potomac-Garrett State Forest. Ten miles of color coded ski trails at Herrington Manor State Park. Four water falls in Swallow Falls State Park. Several watchable wildlife areas. |
| Fees or Permits | Day use service charge is $2 per person Memorial Day through Labor Day and $2 per vehicle the remainder of the year. Out-of-state residents add $1. |
| Description | Much of the trail is an easily navigable old logging road. Part of the trail is single track and rocky. Within one mile of Swallow Falls State Park the trail runs alongside a lovely stream with hemlocks and rhododendron. Approximately one mile from the Swallow Falls State Park trail head, the trail crosses a stream that you may not be able to cross during periods of high water. |
Resources Recommended Gear and Safety Tips
- If possible, park a vehicle at both ends for convenience
- Tire repair kit or tube
- Bike pump
- Helmet
- Use caution during muddy weather keeping in mind soft cycling etiquette - be mindful of trail impact and erosion to trails and streams during these times
- Be aware of your skill level and make safety your constant companion