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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
Baltimore County
Towson

Lake Roland Boardwalk, Red, Purple, and White Trail

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
Baltimore County
Towson

Lake Roland Boardwalk, Red, Purple, and White Trail

Easy

4

hikers

Lake Roland Boardwalk, Red, Purple, and White Trail

01:22

5.07km

60m

Hiking

Hike an easy 3.1-mile loop through Lake Roland Park, exploring woodlands, wetlands, and waterfront views, including the Trestle Bridge.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Waypoints

A

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

2.18 km

Historic Barn

Ruins

2

3.15 km

Lake Roland Park

Highlight • Viewpoint

This park spans over 500 acres and features woodland, wetlands, rocky plateaus, a 100-acre Lake Roland, an abandoned quarry, viewpoints, and some historic buildings.

Tip by

3

3.78 km

Lake Roland

Highlight • Lake

This 100-acre lake was named for the nearby Roland Run Creek and was created by the dam built on Jones Falls. There's a nice trail that runs along the west bank, providing some scenic waterfront views.

Tip by

4

4.13 km

Lake Roland

Highlight • Lake

This 100-acre lake was named for the nearby Roland Run Creek and was created by the dam built on Jones Falls. There's a nice trail that runs along the west bank, providing some scenic waterfront views.

Tip by

B

5.07 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.32 km

435 m

316 m

Surfaces

2.54 km

1.07 km

902 m

255 m

220 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Today

Thursday 28 May

24°C

17°C

11 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park for the Lake Roland Boardwalk, Red, Purple, and White Trail?

Lake Roland Park offers parking facilities. The Boardwalk Trail provides easy, accessible passage into the park, especially for those arriving by light rail, suggesting parking may be available near the Light Rail station or within the park itself.

Can I reach the trail using public transport?

Yes, the Boardwalk Trail is specifically designed for transit-oriented recreation, providing easy access from the Light Rail station directly into Lake Roland Park.

Are dogs allowed on the trails at Lake Roland Park?

The research does not explicitly state dog rules, but generally, dogs are permitted in most public parks on a leash. It's always best to check the official Lake Roland Park website for specific leash policies and any restricted areas.

What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The trails at Lake Roland Park are enjoyable year-round. They are particularly good on hot days due to the wooded sections providing shade, and they offer stunning vibrant colors in autumn. Spring also brings new growth and pleasant temperatures.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike in Lake Roland Park?

Based on available information, there are no explicit permit requirements or entrance fees mentioned for hiking the trails in Lake Roland Park. It is generally accessible to the public.

What is the terrain like on the Boardwalk, Red, Purple, and White Trails?

The terrain varies significantly. The Boardwalk Trail is a raised, accessible boardwalk. The Red Trail is primarily dirt, with some bumpy sections but generally flat and wide. The Purple and White Trails are designated foot-only paths, with some rougher sections. Overall, you'll encounter woodlands, wetlands, and rocky plateaus.

What can I see along the route?

Along this route, you'll experience diverse scenery including woodlands, wetlands, and waterfront views of Lake Roland and the Jones Falls. The Red Trail features remnants of an old train line and notable "Art on the Trail" installations. You'll also pass through Lake Roland Park, which offers various natural and historic features.

Is this trail suitable for families with children or beginners?

Yes, the overall difficulty of trails at Lake Roland ranges from easy to moderate. The Boardwalk Trail is very accessible, and the Red Trail is generally flat and wide in many areas, making it stroller-friendly. The park offers a variety of loops suitable for different preferences, including those new to hiking or with children.

Does this route intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, this route combines sections of the Red Trail, Purple Trail, and White Trail. The park also features other trails like the Green Trail and Yellow Trail, which may intersect or connect with these paths, offering options for extending your hike.

What are the key differences between the Red, Purple, and White Trails?

The Red Trail is longer (around 2.0 miles) and follows an old train line, featuring historical remnants and "Art on the Trail" installations. It's also suitable for mountain biking in some sections. The Purple Trail (0.4 miles) and White Trail (0.3 miles) are shorter and designated as foot-only trails, with bicycles prohibited. The White Trail is sometimes suggested as an alternative to muddier sections of the Green Trail.

Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks along the way?

Yes, you'll find beautiful views of Lake Roland and the Jones Falls, especially from the refurbished Trestle Bridge on the Red Trail. The Red Trail also features remnants of the old train line, including concrete "stumps" and timber, adding historical interest.

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