Western Maryland Rail Trail Extension Opens June 1

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Celebrates the Completion of Phase IV

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. on June 1 to celebrate the completion of the Phase IV extension of the Western Maryland Rail Trail.  

The event will be held in the western terminus parking lot, 12719 High Germany Road, Little Orleans. A brief ceremony will be followed by the cutting of the ribbon, then light refreshments will be available.

The Western Maryland Rail Trail begins one-half mile west of historic Fort Frederick State Park in Big Pool; from there, the trail system winds along the Potomac River through rolling farmland, woodlands and rural towns.

This fourth section brings the rail trail from Sideling Hill to Little Orleans and beyond to the Potomac River, adding about four miles to the trail. Attractions along or in the vicinity of this section include Sideling Hill Creek, C&O Canal Locks 56 and 57 and the Indigo Tunnel, plus campgrounds and water access.