St. Mary's Dam via Green Trail and St. Mary's Lake Loop Trail

You'll find a single parking area located on the south end of St. Mary's Lake. This serves as the primary access point for the trails in St. Mary's River State Park.

Yes, an access fee of $5 per vehicle is required to enter St. Mary's River State Park. This is typically handled via a self-pay envelope honor system at the parking area. No specific hiking permits are mentioned beyond this park entrance fee.

The trail features a mix of single-track dirt, with sections of roots, short uphills, and downhills, as well as some flat, faster areas. The Green Trail specifically is known for being smoother with flowy ups and downs, while other parts, like the White Trail, have significantly more roots. Be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially after rain or in the spring.

While the full loop is generally considered moderate due to its length and some rises and descents, the Green Trail offers a smoother experience with fewer roots, making it a good option for those looking for a slightly easier section. The overall route provides a good workout.

This hike, covering approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles), typically takes around 2 hours and 18 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, the trails within St. Mary's River State Park are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain the park's natural beauty for everyone.

The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round, but the fall is particularly scenic with the changing leaves. Spring can be lovely, though you should be prepared for potentially muddy conditions after rain. Summer is also popular, but be mindful of heat and humidity.

You'll primarily hike through beautiful wooded areas, with occasional glimpses of St. Mary's Lake, especially near the boat launch and along the dirt dam. The park's diverse habitats support various plant and animal species, so you have a good chance of spotting birds, squirrels, and deer.

While much of the route is within the woods, offering a serene forest experience, you'll find views of St. Mary's Lake near the boat launch and along a dirt dam on the east side. Hiking counter-clockwise might offer more frequent, though brief, lake views.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other trails within the park. You'll traverse parts of the White Trail, Western Branch Road, and the Old Yellow trail, contributing to the park's extensive network of over 11 miles of trails.

Signage can sometimes be an issue on these trails. It's highly advisable to obtain a map of St. Mary's River State Park before you head out, or use a reliable navigation app like komoot, to help you stay on track and explore confidently.