Patapsco Valley State Park extends along 32 miles of the Patapsco River, encompassing 16,043 acres and eight developed recreational areas. Recreational opportunities include hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, horseback and mountain bike trails, as well as picnicking for individuals or large groups in the park’s many popular pavilions. The park is nationally known for its trail opportunities and scenery. We have over 200 miles of trails, with 70 of those miles identified as maintained trails.
The Main Branch and the South Branch of the Patapsco River join in the McKeldin area. Rapids along the South Branch are a beautiful but dangerous feature of this section of the park. (Note the Rapids area and the pool below the rapids are closed for swimming due to dangerous currents in this area.) This area has opportunities for the horseback rider, mountain biker, hiker and disc golfer. This area has miles of multi-use trails, which are very popular with the equestrian community.
Park Quest 2020 takes place along the Medicine Tree Trail (.3 mile) - This trail begins at the youth group camping field parking lot. A short loop, the trail is quite rocky and includes a bridge over a deep ravine. This area is open 9 a.m. to Sunset and often fills to capacity on busy weekends. It is recommended to do this Quest during weekdays, if possible.
Map of McKeldin Trails: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Documents/Patapsco_mckeldinmap.pdf
Tips for trail users:
- Wear appropriate footwear
- Know your route and be prepared for emergencies
- Carry water and a snack
- First aid kit and safety equipment recommended
- Dress for the weather
- Let someone know your itinerary and route – cell phones are not reliable in the valley
- Help us sustain our trails. Avoid trail use in wet conditions. We recommend you wait at least 24 hours after a rain event before venturing out along the trails again.
Park Address:
Patapsco Valley State Park - McKeldin Area
11676 Marriottsville Road
Marriottsville MD 21104
Driving Directions:
- From I-695/I-70 West:
Take I-70 to Marriottsville Rd. ( Exit 83).
Go North on Marriottsville Rd. for 4 miles to the park entrance on the right.
- From I-70 East:
Take Rt. 40 to Marriottsville Rd.
Turn left.
Park entrance is 5 miles on the right.
- From Rt. 26:
Take Rt. 26 to Marriottsville Rd.
Go South 4 miles, park entrance is on the left.
