Grist Mill and Trolley Line #9 Loop

No, it's not a single, formally designated loop. This route combines two distinct paved trails: the Trolley Line #9 Trail and the Grist Mill Trail. You connect them by riding approximately 0.5 miles on River Road from the Ellicott City trailhead of the Trolley Line #9.

Both the Trolley Line #9 Trail and the Grist Mill Trail are primarily paved and well-maintained, making them suitable for touring bikes. The Trolley Line #9 Trail features a steady, gradual incline when heading from Ellicott City towards Catonsville, offering a good workout, with a largely downhill return. The Grist Mill Trail is more moderate and runs alongside the Patapsco River.

You'll encounter a variety of interesting features. The Trolley Line #9 Trail starts with a boardwalk curving between dramatic, hand-cut granite bluffs and passes through woodlands with a babbling stream. The Grist Mill Trail offers views of the Patapsco River and an active railroad, and you can see the ruins of the Orange Grove flour mill. You'll also pass by Lost Lake and the Swinging Bridge on Grist Mill Trail.

You can typically find parking near the Ellicott City end of the Trolley Line #9 Trail, which provides convenient access to the historic town. For the Grist Mill Trail, there are parking areas within Patapsco Valley State Park, which also offers amenities like picnic areas and restrooms.

Yes, both the Trolley Line #9 Trail and the Grist Mill Trail are popular with dog walkers. It's generally expected that dogs are kept on a leash and that you clean up after them.

Both trails feature deep tree canopies that provide significant shade, making them pleasant even on warm days. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also enjoyable due to the shade, while winter cycling is possible, but be aware of potential icy patches or temporary crossings on the Grist Mill Trail.

Yes, the Trolley Line #9 Trail connects to a broader network of paths, including an on-road bike lane along Edmondson Avenue linking to the #8 Streetcar Path and the Gwynns Falls Trail. The route itself also utilizes sections of the Patapsco Traverse (north hiking), Patapsco Traverse (north mtb), Patapsco Traverse (south hiking), Patapsco Traverse (south mtb), Patapsco Alt HoCo Thru Trail, and the Patapsco Howard County Thru Trail.

The Grist Mill Trail is located within Patapsco Valley State Park. Maryland State Parks typically have entrance fees, especially on weekends and holidays. You can check the official Maryland Department of Natural Resources website for current fee schedules and any permit requirements for specific activities within the park.

Yes, the Ellicott City end of the Trolley Line #9 Trail provides access to historic Ellicott City, which has numerous shops and restaurants. There's also a local bakery called "The Breadery" and other shops just off the trail.

Yes, the Grist Mill Trail is particularly noted as a moderate route suitable for families and strollers due to its paved surface. The Trolley Line #9 Trail is also paved and generally considered easy, though the incline from Ellicott City might be a bit challenging for very young riders. Overall, it's a family-friendly option for touring cyclists.

Both trails are rich in history. The Trolley Line #9 Trail follows the path of the former Catonsville & Ellicott City Electric Railway Company, which operated from the late 1890s to the mid-1950s. The Grist Mill Trail is in an area that was heavily industrialized from the 1700s to the 1860s, with connections to early American history and the Patapsco River Valley's industrial past.