Temporary Closures along Western Maryland Rail Trail

Users Encouraged to Follow Posted Detours during Construction Project

Significant project improvements along the Western Maryland Rail Trail will force temporary closures along sections of the trail between Nov. 27, 2017, and Jan. 27, 2018. This two-phase project will clean ditch lines and replace damaged guardrails and fencing along the trail.

“For the safety of those who enjoy the trail we ask that everyone follow the posted detours during the temporary closures,” Maryland Park Service Ranger Bob Study said. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as this much needed work gets done.”

The first phase will occur from Nov. 27, 2017 to Jan. 1, 2018. This closure will be from Locher Road (mile 12.5) to Seavolt Road (mile 16.5). Trial users can detour around the closure by using the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath. On the east end of the closure area, the crossover from the rail trail will be at mile 10.5 to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath at mile 124.4 in Hancock. The crossover at the western end of the closure will be at mile 20 along the rail trail and mile 134 along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath.

The second phase will occur from Jan. 1-27, 2018. This closure will be from Seavolt Road (mile 16.5) to Pearre Road (mile 22). Trail users will need to turn around at rail trail mile 16.5. There will also be no access to the rail trail from the western end of the trail at Pearre (mile 23).

The Western Maryland Rail Trail is administered by Fort Frederick State Park. For more information, please contact 301-842-2155. All closures subject to change.