This 11.9-mile section of trail in our NOBO LASH, spans between Washington Monument State Park and a parking area on Wolfsville Rd. The hike started at 7:34 AM, and ended around 2:30 PM. Temps were considerably cooler today, starting in the mid-20’s with a considerably brisk wind that made the temps feel more like they were in the teens. By the end of the hike, the temps were in the low to mid-40’s, mostly sunny, and a westerly wind averaging 15 mph.
Washington Monument State Park was closed when we arrived (doesn’t open until early April). It is historically interesting. Camping is only available when the park is officially open.
There were two good views along the trail. The first was at Annapolis Rocks, which provides an expansive southeastern view of Cumberland County. The second view was at Black Rock Cliff, providing a 180-degree panorama west. The wind was rather fierce at both locations, so staying to enjoy the view for a while was not in cards as it simply was too cold to linger beyond taking a few pictures.
Beyond the views, the hike had little to offer than a long stretch of rocks that had to be navigated very carefully if one is to avoid a twisted ankle or two!
A few AT hikers were met along the way, along with a half dozen day hikers heading south. As for wildlife sightings: plenty of squirrels this time around, along with quite a few chipmunks.
Be sure to visit the Maryland Gallery!