College Mountain via Mount Saint Mary's Cemetery

Starting near Frederick County, Maryland, this 5 km (approximately 3.1 miles) out-and-back trail offers a moderate challenge with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). The trailhead is conveniently located near Mount Saint Mary's Cemetery, making it accessible for those arriving by car or public transport. If driving, you can park near the cemetery, which is close to the intersection of Old Emmitsburg Road and Annandale Road. For those using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is Mount St. Mary's University, which is a short walk from the trailhead.

Trail Overview

The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a mixed hardwood forest, where you'll encounter a variety of native trees such as oak, maple, and hickory. Early in the hike, you'll pass through Mount Saint Mary's Cemetery, a serene and historically significant site. The cemetery dates back to the early 19th century and is the final resting place for many notable figures, including members of the clergy and local community leaders.

Key Landmarks and Points of Interest

As you continue, the trail becomes steeper, offering a more challenging climb. Around the 1.5 km (0.9 mile) mark, you'll reach a small clearing that provides a brief respite and an opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This is a great spot to take a break and hydrate.

Further along, at approximately 2.5 km (1.6 miles), you'll encounter a rocky outcrop that offers stunning vistas of the Catoctin Mountain range. This viewpoint is one of the highlights of the trail and provides an excellent photo opportunity. The elevation gain to this point is about 150 meters (492 feet), so be prepared for a bit of a workout.

Flora and Fauna

The trail is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as white-tailed deer, red foxes, and a variety of bird species including woodpeckers and hawks. In the spring and summer months, the forest floor is adorned with wildflowers like trillium and Virginia bluebells, adding a splash of color to your hike.

Navigation and Safety

Given the moderate difficulty of the trail, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be invaluable, especially if you decide to explore any of the side paths.

Historical Significance

The area around College Mountain is steeped in history. Mount Saint Mary's University, founded in 1808, is one of the oldest Catholic institutions in the United States. The university's campus, which you can explore before or after your hike, features several historic buildings and monuments.

Final Stretch

The final stretch to the summit of College Mountain involves a series of switchbacks that can be quite steep. The effort is well worth it, as the summit offers expansive views of the Frederick County landscape. The total elevation gain by the time you reach the summit is around 200 meters (656 feet).

After taking in the views, retrace your steps back to the trailhead, enjoying the downhill journey and the opportunity to see the landscape from a different perspective.