Hereford Area Trail Guide

Gunpowder Falls State Park
Hereford Area Trail Guide
Gunpowder Falls State Park was established in 1960 to preserve the stream and river valleys of the Big and Little Gunpowder Falls in central Maryland. Nearly 18,000 acres are protected from the Maryland-Pennsylvania line to the Chesapeake Bay, for outdoor recreation and natural and heritage resource conservation.
The Hereford Area, located in northern Baltimore County, is one of five designated recreation areas in Gunpowder Falls State Park. The area's 3,620 acres feature a scenic wilderness setting preserved under State Wildland status for nature appreciation and outdoor adventures. Anglers enjoy a nationally renowned special trout management area located downstream from Prettyboy Reservoir and hikers and horseback riders explore more than 20 miles of wooded trails. The Big Gunpowder Falls, which flows through the Hereford Area valley, also attracts canoeing, kayaking and tubing enthusiasts throughout the year.
Wildlife and Nature Appreciation
The unique geology of the Hereford Area, featuring a rugged, gorge-like valley and prominent schist rock outcroppings, has created a setting of impressive natural diversity. A mature hardwood hickory and oak forest supports a wide array of plant and animal species. Several of these species are threatened and uncommon in Maryland, including the pygmy shrew, climbing fumitory, hairy ringed sedge, purple fringeless orchid and lobed spleen wart. The majority of the Hereford Area has received special protection as designated State Wildlands to preserve the notable biological and geologic diversity of the river valley.
In the spring, wildflowers create a wide array of colors along the park's trails. Several early bloomers are the Dutchman's breeches, slender toothwort, Canada Mayflower, wild columbine, violets, bloodroot, trout lily, trailing arbutus and wild ginger.
Unique soils found throughout the Hereford Area provide the right habitat for rare orchids, such as the purple fringeless orchid and pink lady's slipper. Hikers along the Panther Branch Trail may enjoy the showy orchus, which blooms throughout the summer. Some other unusual flowers are the white form of erect trillium, Greek valerian, bishop's cap and the wood anemone. These flowers are northern species that are more common in mountainous regions.
The diversity of the area's topography provides for wildlife habitats suitable for opossums, raccoons, woodchuck, squirrels and chipmunks, rabbits and whitetail deer. A sudden splash on the river might alert you to the presence of a beaver. Notice their dams along the river's banks and teeth marks at the base of toppled or half-standing trees. As one of the largest rodents in North America, beavers can weigh from 45 to 60 pounds.
The Hereford Area is excellent habitat for migratory and forest interior dwelling birds, such as a variety of warblers, thrushes and vireos. In a day's birding, one can see colorful indigo buntings, peewees, Carolina chickadees, blue herons, kingfishers, red tail and red-shouldered hawks, phoebes and various woodpeckers.
Heritage
The Hereford Area and surrounding region were inhabited and hunted by a number of Native American Indian tribes. The Susquehannocks were the primary tribe, roaming throughout southern Pennsylvania, northern Maryland and Delaware. The Piscataway also traveled in this area during the winter, following the migration of game.
The names of several local manmade and natural landmarks relfect the area's Native American heritage. The nearby vicinity of Shawan Road was originally named "Shawan Hunting Ground" after the Shawnee Indians who presumably used the area. The park's Mingo Branch stream is named after the Mingo Indians from Pennsylvania, who invaded the Hereford Area during skirmishes with the Susquehannocks.
The town of Hereford, which is near the park, is considered one of the oldest in Baltimore County, dating to the mid-1700s. The Merryman Family, who emigrated from the English shire of Hereford, gave the town its name. The area was once part of a large land grant called My Lady's Manor. The lady for whom the manor was named was Margaret Calvert, fourth wife of Charles Calvert, the Third Lord of Baltimore.
Following the Revolutionary War, America began building water-powered mills at a rapid rate. Many of the mills, which were used to grind grain into flour and produce lumber and gunpowder, were built on rivers, such as the Gunpowder Falls, located at the State's fall line. The "fall line" is a geological term that describes a physical drop in elevation from the gentle slopes of the Piedmont Plateau to the flat Coastal Plain. Here, a river typically cascades through rocky rapids providing the power to turn the wheel of a grist or sawmill. Even though "falls" is the name, there are no waterfalls on the Big Gunpowder Falls.
Visitors can see the ruins of three grist, saw and gunpowder mills that were built in the area during the 1700s. Two mills were built along the Panther Branch Trail and another still stands as a fieldstone house near the Masemore Road parking area. The presence of gunpowder mills along the park's river is one plausible explanation for the river's name.
Trails
The Hereford Area has approximately 20 miles of trails for rugged hiking and horseback riding. Due to the area's special protection as a State Wildland, mountain bikes are prohibited on all trails. The Gunpowder South Trail is the area's main trail and is blazed white. All side trails are blazed blue except the Sandy Lane Trail, which is blazed pink. Yellow blazes indicate equestrian routes. Two painted blazes indicate a change in the trail's direction.
Please Play Safe! The Hereford Area is a natural area with certain hazards, such as poison ivy, slippery trail surfaces and insects. The venomous copperhead snake can also be found in the area, often sunning on exposed rocks. Please do not harm snakes, which are protected by law as an important part of the natural ecosystem. Remember, you are responsible for having the necessary skills, knowledge and equipment for a safe and environmentally sensitive visit.

Gunpowder South Trail (7.1 miles)
This linear trail is south of the Gunpowder Falls, extending the entire length of the Hereford Area from Prettyboy Dam downstream to Big Falls Road. Although the trail is generally level, following the riverbank, sections do require agility to scramble over large boulders and rough terrain. Two recommended scenic segments of the trail are from York Road to Big Falls Road and Falls Road to Pretty Dam. The dam's impressive face can be seen along the latter section of the trail, particularly during winter. Construction of the dam began in 1924 and was completed nine years later. The dam was named for a farmer's favorite horse, Prettyboy, who reportedly drowned in a nearby stream. Hikers can reach the base of the dam and access views from the top by climbing a long set of stairs.

Gunpowder North Trail (5.8 miles)
This linear trail extends from Falls Road downstream to Big Falls Road and is north of the Gunpowder Falls. Enjoy a scenic view of Raven Rock Falls, which cascades steeply over rocks to the Big Gunpowder Falls below.

Highland Trail (1.2 miles)
This trail starts 0.7 miles downstream of Prettyboy Dam and ends at Masemore Road. The former Masemore Mill, built by Nicholas Foster and Christopher Walker in 1797, can be seen near the parking area. The Mill was converted into a fieldstone house in 1944, and later purchased by the State. The trail can also be accessed from Falls Road, offering a vigorous alternative to the Gunpowder South Trail.

Mingo Forks Trail (1.8 miles)
This trail lies east and west of Mingo Branch, named after the Mingo Indians who traveled from Pennsylvania to this area. The trail can be accessed from Bunker Hill Road and includes some of the highest sections of the park. The beginning of the trail is wide and flat enabling all persons to enjoy. A seasonal comfort station is located at Camp Wood.

Bunker Hill Trail (1.2 miles)
This trail connects the Mingo Forks and Gunpowder South trails. The trail passes through a parking lot, located 0.8 miles west of York Road on Bunker Hill Road. A separate area for handicap parking only is located where Bunker Hill Road ends at the south bank of the Gunpowder Falls. Here, concrete abutments are all that remain of the covered bridge that once spanned the river. Built in 1880, the bridge was destroyed by fire in 1961. The bridge was rebuilt in 1963 with the help of Amish craftsmen using traditional handtools. This bridge also burned in 1971. A short distance upstream leads to picnic tables and a seasonal comfort station on the hill.

Panther Branch Trail (2.2 miles)
This trail's name is derived from a panther, which was once spotted in a cave visible from the trail. The trail can be accessed from York Road and offers scenic views of the Gunpowder Falls. Ruins of two water-powered mills owned by John Rowe and Son's in the mid-1700s can be seen along Panther Branch trail. According to an 1850 census, the company's gunpowder mill employed four workers, produced 1,800 kegs of blasting powder and received $4,000 in capital. On July 7, 1874, however, the powder mill blew up in an accident. The second mill was a grist and sawmill that was used to make flour and lumber. Look for the remains of its stone foundation along the trail.

Sandy Lane Trail (0.3 miles)
This short trail connects the Gunpowder South and Panther Branch Trails. To avoid a steep climb, access the trail from the Panther Branch Trail as opposed to Gunpowder South Trail. The trail is named after retired Ranger Walter Sandy, the Hereford Area's first ranger. He played an important part in developing the Area's trail system.

Mingo Ridge and Mingo Valley Trails (0.5 miles)
These two trails connect the Mount Carmel Road parking lot to the Mingo Forks Trail. The Mingo Ridge Trail runs in a northwest direction between a stand of white pines and a ridge overlooking two small streams. The Mingo Valley Trail runs in a northeast direction along a feeder stream to the Mingo Branch. Maturing white oak and tulip poplars provide a high canopy and sparse understory along both of these trails. Deer, owls and a variety of small mammals can be viewed along these trails.

River Recreation
The Big Gunpowder Falls is a favorite paddling destination for canoeing, kayaking and tubing. Spectacular views of the park's undisturbed forest and impressive rock outcroppings promise to inspire river users. Due to water releases from nearby Prettyboy Dam and shading by the dense forest canopy, the river is relatively cold -- 45 to 50 degrees Farenheit on average -- even in mid-summer.
The river encompassed within the Hereford Area offers recreation opportunities for both advanced and novice paddlers, ranging in difficulty from Class l to lll. The upper river between the first public access point at Falls Road to the take-out at York Road (Rt. 45) is described by Gertler in his guide to Maryland and Delaware Canoe Trails as comprised of "easy riffles and fast flat water." Solid paddling skills are required on this stretch to negotiate potential hazards, such as fallen trees that can block passage on the narrow stream.
The river downstream from York Road is more popular with novices, offering several enjoyable hours of paddling and more easily negotiated swift moving water and riffles. As you explore the river, please respect the rights of private property owners who own most of the land bordering the river once you leave the Hereford Area boundary at Big Falls Road.
Personal flotation devices are required for all persons canoeing, kayaking and tubing on the river. Helmets are required for canoeists and kayakers using the river from Prettyboy Dam to York Road. Be aware of fluctuating water levels caused by rainfall, drought or dam releases before entering the water. Water level gauges are located at Falls Road and Blue Mount Road river crossings. Shoes are recommended to avoid foot injuries. River launch sites and parking are indicated on the map.
Fishing
The Big Gunpowder Falls in the Hereford Area is a nationally renowned blue-ribbon trout stream. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources manages the river from Prettyboy Dam to Blue Mount Road as a special trout management area for catch and release with artificial lures only. Coldwater releases from Prettyboy Dam enable brown trout to reproduce naturally in this tailwater fishery. Other species include brook and rainbow trout, and smaller feeding fish, such as creek chub, common shiner, white sucker, northern hog sucker, mottled sculpin and American eel.
A fishing license and trout stamp are required for anyone 16 years of age, or older, to fish this area. For more detailed information on rules and regulations, consult your freshwater sportfishing guide, issued with the purchase of your fishing license, or visit the Fisheries Service website.
Hunting and Archery
Bow hunting for white-tailed deer is available seasonally by permit only in the area west of I-83. Certain restrictions apply. For more information or to purchase a permit please call the park's headquarters.
An archery course is available to the general public one-half mile south of Bunker Hill Road. The course is maintained with the cooperation of the Gunpowder Bowmen Club. The course may be closed for club meets. Visitors should use caution in this area and stay on designated trails. For information, call the park headquarters.
Camping
Organized youth group camping with a permit is allowed at Camp Wood. Contact Gunpowder Falls State Park headquarters at 410-592-2897 for reservations. The camp includes tent sites under a mature hemlock forest along the river, fire rings, grills and a seasonal comfort station. An amphitheater is also available for programs. Information on nearby family camping opportunities can also be obtained by contacting park headquarters.
To make picnic, pavilion and camping reservations Spring through Fall within a Maryland State Forest or Park, call Park Reservations at 1-888-432-2267. Reservations can also be made on the Internet at: reservations.dnr.state.md.us
Due to the special State Wildland protection status of the Hereford Area, mountain bikes are prohibited on all park trails. Only youth group camping and campfires are permitted in designated areas. Remember that all of Maryland's State Parks are Trash-Free -- so please pack out what you pack in! Thanks for being a good steward of Maryland's outdoors.

Plan ahead and prepare.
Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
Dispose of waste properly.
Leave what you find.
Minimize campfire impacts.
Respect wildlife.
Be considerate of other visitors.

Trail Stewardship
You can help support trails at your favorite forest or park by volunteering on trail projects or purchasing a tax-deductible Trail Stewardship sticker. Your support helps maintain and construct trails to protect the environment and benefit trail users. For more information on volunteering please call the park's headquarters at 410-592-2897.
Pets
Pets are welcome throughout the park with the exception of the camping and amphitheater areas at Camp Wood due to sanitation concerns. For the safety of your pet, wildlife and other visitors, please comply with the park's requirement that all pets remain on a leash.
Mill Pond Cottage
Hereford's Mill Pond Cottage provides overnight accommodations for up to eight people. Enjoy a B&B atmosphere and amenities such as a fireplace, barbecue pit and air conditioning. The Park Visitor Center accepts reservations.
Guides and Outfitters
For information on commerical guides and outfitters or organizing group outings, contact DNR's Nature Tourism Coordinator at 410-592-2897.
Park Watch
The State Forest and Park Service's Park Watch program encourages visitors and neighbors to take an active role in protecting personal property and preserving the park. If you observe suspicious activities, vandalism or safety hazards, please report these problems to any park employee or call: 1-800-825-PARK (7275).
How to Get There
From the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), take I-83 north 12.4 miles to Exit 27, Mt. Carmel Road. Turn right on Mt. Carmel Road. At traffic light, turn left on York Road. Pass the Hereford High School and turn left on Bunker Hill Road. Continue on Bunker Hill Road to parking lot, located above the river.
Other parking areas for river and trail access are located at the following road crossings: Falls Road, Masemore Road, York Road and Big Falls Road.

This trail guide, complete with a topographical map of the hiking trails, is available for sale from Gunpowder Falls State Park headquarters by calling 410-592-2897.

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