6/22/2020 Unnamed Trail parallel to Western Ridge trail (AllTrails does not show this on its map) – Hiking through the woods towards Western Ridge Trail since there is no connection to it – Western Ridge Trail – Glover Rd. NW
Elevation gain: 397 feet
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We had business errands in Silver Spring so while we waited, I figured we revisit Rock Creek Park. Last time here our walk wasn’t totally satisfactory so I looked for another part of the trail to see if we get luckier this time.
It took me almost half hour to find parking because the signs for the park are all over but without any indication of to where to park.
AllTrails is not helpful finding parking either. Finally I spotted yet another sign with parking on the corner of Military Rd. NW and Glover Rd. NW. (Looking back now, I see Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium on the map.)
After parking and getting some much needed water in my pockets we headed South to catch up with one of the trails. It’s very hot and humid today.
Keeping with our motto, after we leave the parking area I steer Mag towards the trail on our right to hike the longest route. It is a very generous, well maintained trail which ends up being a dead end. It is parallel with Grant Rd. NW. and leads down to Broad Branch (creek?). The last 50 feet is sort of a drop without traction. Be careful if heading down to the water.
Since there is no connection from this trail end to Western Ridge Trail we have to cut through the forest first following the creek. It’s not an easy task but a rather do this than to head back on unnamed trail. After catching up with our target trail it turns out to be yet another spacious path. Since it’s hot we are leaving out an additional 0.7 miles at the end before it hairpins back following Rock Creek.
We stop several times to enjoy the cooling waters. Good to have water shoes….
Before reaching our car we pass by Rock Creek Stables on our left. The Nature Center and Planetarium is on our right. The Woodland Trail circles them around. We however head back to our car to cool off.
Here is the map of our hike.
I am sure we will be back to hike another trail around here in the future.
Happy trailing everyone! And remember….
The Longest Route 