Swallow Falls

The trail runs from Herrington Manor State Park to Swallow Falls State Park just north of Oakland, Maryland. We entered the Garrett State Forest from the Trailhead on Herrington Manor Road on a very defined trail. The Jack Russell Terriers took off on the trail that travels through an old growth forest on a relitively level grade. This fact made the trip even more enjoyable. We had hiked about three miles when we crossed Swallow Falls Road. This is an active road so caution with your dogs is necessary. After another couple of miles, we cross a creek on a log bridge and entered Swallow Falls State Park. We all ate lunch and then headed down to the Falls. This is a nice place to linger or climb around on the rocks in the Youghiogheny River which flows out of Pennsylvania. Pets are not allowed on the trails from Memorial Day to Labor Day in the park.

We lingered a little to long because the sky turned dark, and the wind began to howl. We still had 5.5 miles to get back to the trailhead when the rain began to come down hard. As we made our way through the woods, the branches were breaking off and crashing to the ground. The Jack Russell Terriers were getting nervous not to mention soaking wet. They were ready for this hike to be over. After an hour, the storm moved on, and the sun broke out briefly. This was more satisfactory to the dogs. This was an easy level hike, but its length was 11 miles so we would rate this hike moderate. The trail travelled through an old gowth forest, and we only saw a few other hikers. We crossed the road twice where caution was necessary. The last thing is the State Parks require that your pet be on a leash, but that was only for a short period. All in all, this was a great hike.