Seneca Creek Greenway to Clopper Lake Loop

This loop is generally considered easy to medium difficulty for mountain biking. The Clopper Lake section is beginner-friendly, featuring roots, some short, steep climbs, and moderate descents, with narrow singletrack. The broader Seneca Greenway Trail includes hilly sections and stream crossings. Overall, it's a good option for beginner to intermediate riders.

You can expect diverse terrain. The Clopper Lake Trail section has a significant number of roots, short steep climbs, and moderately steep downhills, often narrow. The Seneca Greenway Trail is a natural surface trail winding through upland woodlands, with hilly sections and stream crossings, some with bridges or natural rock formations. The Seneca Ridge Trail, often connected, offers smooth, fast, and flowing singletrack.

The route offers continuous views of Clopper Lake, where you can spot waterfowl, herons, fish, and turtles. The Seneca Greenway Trail provides picturesque views of the Great Seneca Creek and traverses beautiful forested areas, especially vibrant in spring with blooming peonies and in fall with autumn colors. Keep an eye out for small cascades where the creek babbles over rocks.

Yes, the trail passes by several interesting sites. You can see the ruins of the historic Black Rock Mill, which dates back to 1815. Additionally, the impressive Waring Viaduct, a historic stone railroad bridge still in use today, is a notable feature along the way. The Clopper Lake Trail itself is a central highlight.

The trail is particularly appealing in the spring when heirloom peonies bloom and in the fall when the forests display vibrant autumn colors. While accessible year-round, these seasons offer the most picturesque experience. Be mindful of trail conditions after rain, as natural surface trails can become muddy.

The Seneca Creek Greenway to Clopper Lake Loop is approximately 11.8 km (7.3 miles) long. For mountain biking, it typically takes around 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

Parking is available within Seneca Creek State Park. The park has multiple access points, and specific parking areas are designated for trail users. It's advisable to check the official Maryland State Parks website for the most current parking information and directions to the trailheads.

Yes, Seneca Creek State Park typically has an entrance fee. Fees can vary by season, day of the week, and residency (Maryland residents vs. out-of-state). There are no specific permits required for mountain biking on this trail, but you must pay the park entrance fee. For the most up-to-date information on fees and operating hours, please consult the official Maryland State Parks website.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within Seneca Creek State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You will ride along parts of the Around Clopper Lake trail (51% of the route), the Seneca Creek Greenway (43%), MoCoEpic South (28%), and smaller portions of the Great Seneca Highway Bicycle Route (11%) and MoCo Epic Hundred Miles (3%).

Yes, as the name suggests, the Seneca Creek Greenway to Clopper Lake Loop is a loop trail, meaning you will end your ride at or near your starting point without having to retrace your steps.