The best walks and hikes in Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area
4.7
(92)
788
hikers
62
hikes
Hiking in Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area takes you along the Patapsco River as it flows through a deep gorge with rocky cliffs. The landscape is characterized by wooded floodplain forests along the river and upland deciduous forests on the surrounding hills. Many of the hiking trails in the Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton area follow the remnants of the former mill town of Daniels, combining natural scenery with local history.
Best hiking trails in Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area
- The most popular hiking route is Alberton Road to Daniels Dam — Patapsco Valley State Park (Alberton Area), a 3.1 mile (5.0 km) trail that takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to complete. This route follows a mostly flat path along the river to the historic Daniels Dam.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Daniels Dam – Camel's Den Cave loop from Mount Hebron, a moderate 5.2 mile (8.4 km) path. The trail includes some elevation gain as it loops through the upland forest above the river.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Church Loop Trail to Camel's Den Cave — Patapsco Valley State Park, a 2.5 mile (4.0 km) trail leading through the area's historic ruins, often completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Hiking in Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area is defined by its riverside paths, deep river gorges, and dense deciduous forests. The trail network offers a mix of easy, flat routes and more moderate hikes with some climbing.
- The routes in Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 850 hikers have used komoot to explore Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3.0
(3)
5
hikers
3.80km
01:04
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
18.0km
04:58
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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17.8km
04:48
230m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.67km
01:31
80m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
5.01km
01:17
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Other than the defunct end of what was a bridge, there is no other sign of a bridge.
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Camel’s Den Cave is a small, shallow shelter cave nestled in the Daniels Area of Patapsco Valley State Park. It's a slight detour off Daniels Singletrack and you will need to carry your bike down a couple of steps.
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Daniels Dam is a nice small dam along the Patapsco River. You get a good view from the parking lot, so it is worth pulling in for a short break.
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This path has lots of shade, nice scenery, and a beautiful waterfall at the end. Perfect for a short, easy hike on a sunny day!
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The lake is small and fully encircled by the trail. The wall of the quarry stands high on the far side from the viewpoint. In the summer the vegetation crowding the water makes it feel like quite the lush watering hole.
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Right next to the parking lot and the starting point of some nice hiking loops, make sure you don't miss taking a look at Daniels Dam.
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The Patapsco River is a 39-mile river that flows into the Chesapeake Bay, notably running through the city of Baltimore.
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From this spot along the Patapsco Traverse, you get a great view of Daniel Dam that dams up the Patapsco River.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to hike in the Alberton Area?
The main access point is the Alberton Road Trail Parking lot, located at 8101 Dogwood Rd, Windsor Mill. This is a popular starting point for many trails, so it can fill up on weekends. It's best to arrive early to secure a spot.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in the Alberton Area?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails in the Patapsco Valley State Park, including the Alberton Area, as long as they are kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful.
What are the historical ruins I can see while hiking?
The area is famous for the remnants of the mill town of Daniels. Along the trails, you can discover the stone ruins of the 19th-century St. Stanislaus Kostka church, the remains of a Pentecostal church, and even abandoned cars from the 1972 flood caused by Hurricane Agnes. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's industrial past.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, the Alberton Area has several options suitable for families. Many of the trails along the Patapsco River are relatively flat and easy to walk. A great choice is the Pickall Trail loop — Patapsco Valley State Park, which is a gentle 3.2-mile (5.2 km) walk with minimal elevation change.
Are there any good circular walks in the Alberton Area?
Absolutely. The area offers several loop trails that bring you back to your starting point. For a straightforward loop that still includes some of the area's key sights, consider the Camel's Den Cave – Daniels Dam loop from Patapsco Valley State Park Daniels Area. It's a 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route with moderate elevation.
Is there an entrance fee for the Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area?
Yes, Patapsco Valley State Park has an entrance fee which varies for in-state and out-of-state vehicles. It's recommended to bring cash, although some locations may have automated pay stations. For the most current fee information, you can check the official park website: dnr.maryland.gov.
What is the terrain like for hiking in the Alberton Area?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find flat, semi-paved paths like Alberton Road that follow the river, making for easy walking. Other trails climb the steep hillsides of the river gorge, featuring more rugged, uneven, and rocky ground with some elevation gain.
How many hiking trails are in the Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area?
You can explore over 50 different hiking routes in the Alberton Area. These range from 29 easy walks along the river to 22 more moderate trails that explore the upland forests, providing plenty of options for all skill levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Alberton Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the unique combination of natural beauty and local history, particularly enjoying the exploration of the ghost town ruins of Daniels set against the scenic backdrop of the Patapsco River gorge.
Besides hiking, what other activities are available in the Alberton Area?
The Patapsco River is central to recreation here. The calm water behind Daniels Dam is a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. While many trails are for hiking only, the wider park does offer designated trails for mountain biking and trail running.
Are there any waterfalls in the area?
Yes, the landscape features a number of tributary waterfalls that cascade down the rocky cliffs of the Patapsco River gorge. These are most impressive after a recent rainfall. Exploring the various side trails that lead up from the main river path is the best way to discover them.
Most popular routes in Patapsco Valley State Park Alberton Area
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