View Full Version : Need advice on first Backpacking hike in MD
I'm planning my first AT hike/camp in MD and I need some advice. I'm real close to the AT where it crosses highway 491 between Smithsburg and Cascade, and also at that parking lot on Rt 40. I'd like to do a 6-7 mile hike and stop at a campsite that allows small fires and hike back the next morning. I live in Smithsburg, MD so anywhere near there would be helpful. THANKS!
Lone Wolf
06-07-2004, 13:00
Park at Rt. 40 and hike 8.8 miles north to Ensign Cowall Shelter. Easy hike.
Thanks wolf! Does this place allow fires? I don't plan on using a shelter, just my 2 man tent. Are there any other designated camping areas around my area that allow fires?
Singletrack
06-07-2004, 13:28
Theres a Fire Ring at Ensign Colwall Shelter.
Again, I'm just looking for basic info on a 5-7 mile hike anywhere in the area of Pen-Mar to I-70. Oh, and camp fire is a must.
hikerltwt
06-07-2004, 15:24
If the fire is a must PLEASE USE THE FIRE RING at a shelter! Campfire rings along the trail are ONE OF THE MOST UNSIGHTLY messes people leave in the backcountry. I urge all that utilize the trail to practice LEAVE NO TRACE principles.
Yo-YO
I agree, and that is exactly why I'm asking. Any one who understands my post and has information regarding a good start point and desination, please respond.
Brushy Sage
06-07-2004, 23:13
Fires are allowed at Pogo Memorial Campsite. It also has a good water source, and a privy, and is usually not in heavy use. The campsite is 8.2 mi south of the MD 491 crossing (Raven Rock Hollow), and 3.9 mi north of the Rte 40 parking lot. You might leave a car at Rte 40, have someone drop you off at the Rte 491 crossing, hike to Pogo Campsite the first day, then have an easy hike down to your car on the second day. For a shorter first day, arrange to be dropped at the Rte 77 crossing (Foxville Road, southeast of Smithsburg).
Thanks sage. Sounds good. I got my hands on a good map and I was going go south from Rt 40 and go 4.9 miles to Turners Gap, but that's right next to Alt Rt 40 in Boonesboro and I don't want to camp next to a bunch of drunk teenagers so I might decide to take your advice. I can just see it now, a beer bottle and trash wonderland. But I hope I'm being pessamistic about it and I'm wrong.