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NatureHiking

This Loop Trail In Maryland Is Currently A Mossy Paradise You’ll Want To See In Person

Hemlock Gorge Extended Loop in Prettyboy Reservoir Park, Maryland, offers a scenic 5.6-mile hike with moss-covered landscapes and natural beauty.

Published Jan 20, 2021

Written by 

Jamie Alvarenga

Does the new year have you motivated to do more hiking? Then be sure to add this local trail to your to-do list. This Maryland loop is full of water views, fascinating plant life, and is currently covered in gorgeous green moss. Read on for the hiking trail details, bundle up, and enjoy the scenery!

Prettyboy Reservoir Park is located in the Hampstead, Maryland area.

Map highlighting Prettyboy Reservoir Park as a scenic waterfront recreation spot near Baltimore, Maryland.
Google Maps

This 7,380-acre park is owned by the City of Baltimore. It's a popular spot for rowing, horseback riding, and of course... hiking.

A serene forest scene with a winding stream, sunlight filtering through trees, and autumn leaves scattered on the ground.
AllTrails / Aaron Thorne

A favorite trail here is Hemlock Gorge Extended Loop. It's a 5.6-mile loop that's full of natural beauty, especially during this time of year.

A serene riverbank scene with rocky terrain, surrounded by trees and a calm, greenish water body.
AllTrails / j e bowders

That's because nearly every surface is covered in moss. The fuzzy green stuff is most prevalent during autumn and winter months, so check it out soon!

A serene forest scene featuring a winding stream surrounded by moss-covered rocks and tall trees.
AllTrails / j e bowders

From gloriously green boulders...

A rocky outcrop covered in moss, surrounded by trees in a forest setting. Fallen leaves are scattered on the ground.
AllTrails / Ellen Schwenk Medlock

...to brightly colored tree stumps, you'll feel like you're in an enchanted forest.

Two moss-covered trees stand near a riverbank, surrounded by fallen leaves and a flowing stream in the background.
AllTrails / Jenny Darling

Another bonus of visiting during this time of year is the natural icicles. Keep your eyes peeled and bring your camera!

Icicles hang from moss-covered rocks beside a calm, clear stream in a wooded area.
AllTrails / David Boyer

Speaking of keeping your eyes peeled, you'll also want to look out for the old cemetery...

A serene, overgrown cemetery with several weathered gravestones surrounded by trees and greenery.
AllTrails / Johy M.

...and massive fungus that's sure to impress.

A tree trunk covered with various shelf fungi, showcasing intricate shapes and textures in a natural setting.
AllTrails / David Boyer

Spring...

A cluster of bright yellow daffodils surrounded by green leaves and dry grass in a natural setting.
AllTrails / Mike Bellgrau

Summer...

A serene river flows through a wooded area, with clear water and rocky banks under dappled sunlight.
AllTrails / Mike Bellgrau

Autumn...

A serene forest scene with a winding path, colorful autumn leaves, and a calm stream surrounded by trees.
AllTrails / Aaron Thorne

...or winter, Hemlock Gorge Extended Loop always has something to offer. Learn more about this hike by clicking on the AllTrails page linked below, and happy hiking!

A serene forest scene featuring a winding creek surrounded by lush green trees and moss-covered rocks.
AllTrails / Scott Marder

You can read more about this local trail (and see even more beautiful photos) by checking out the AllTrails page.

For another pretty trail in Maryland, click on: The Mount Airy Rails To Trails Hike In Maryland Is As Easy As It Is Beautiful. It's a short and sweet trek that leads to a charming downtown area!

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