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A fun singletrack with a climb, fun descent, and some stream crossings.


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Map Key

1.1

Miles

1.8

KM

Point to Point

471' 144 m

High

236' 72 m

Low

236' 72 m

Up

235' 72 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

17%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs Leashed

Description

The Switchplate trail follows a simple "A" shape as it climbs and then descends a ridge within the Daniels Area of Patapsco Valley State Park. The trail begins near the Daniels boat launch, passing by the Daniels Cave. The trail follows a skinny singletrack as it gradually begins to climb the ridge line. The first third of this trail is rather easy as it follows a small stream with few obstacles and a gentle slope. As it veers away from the stream, the path takes a more aggressive slope, including a particularly steep cutback. At the halfway point the trail rejoins the Switchplate Trail - Rocky Loop, which branches off early in a more abrupt climb of the ridge. From here the trail descends the ridge, connecting with several other trails along the way such as the Daniels Trail, and the Old Ranger House Trail.

Contacts

Shared By:

Ken Lohr with improvements by Patapsco Heritage Greenway

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 3 votes

#12580

Overall
  4.0 from 3 votes
5 Star
33%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
33%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#163

in Maryland

#12,580

Overall
2 Views Last Month
177 Since Oct 11, 2018
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
0%
33%
0%
67%
0%

Photos

View from boat launch of Daniels Area during the spring bloom.
May 29, 2019 near Ellicot…, MD
View of Daniels Cave from across the stream.
Jul 23, 2019 near Ellicot…, MD
Rocky climb along the southern cutback of the Switchplate Trail rocky loop.
Jul 23, 2019 near Ellicot…, MD
Minor rock scramble along the top of the ridge on the Switchplate rocky loop trail.
Jul 23, 2019 near Ellicot…, MD

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