Greenbrier State Park in Frederick-Hagerstown, Maryland, offers a scenic and challenging 11-mile mountain bike trail system that caters to riders of all abilities. The trails are rocky, technical, and feature a good amount of elevation change, making them a great option for those looking for a thrilling ride. The park is open year-round and offers amenities such as camping, bath facilities, and a 42-acre man-made freshwater lake for paddling, swimming, and fishing.
Exploring the Greenbrier State Park Bike Trails
The bike trails at Greenbrier State Park are suitable for riders of all abilities, but include sections more suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. The local trail association, MORE, subscribes to IMBA’s trail difficulty ratings, ensuring that riders can choose trails that match their skill level.
Trail Difficulty Ratings
The Greenbrier State Park bike trails are rated as follows:
| Trail Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|
| Easy | Suitable for beginners, with gentle slopes and minimal technical features. |
| Intermediate | Moderately challenging, with some technical sections and moderate elevation changes. |
| Advanced | Highly technical, with steep climbs, rocky terrain, and challenging features. |
Trail Network and Amenities
The park boasts a total of 20 trails, spanning 15 miles in length, with 2,759 feet of descent and 758 feet of total vertical. The trails offer a variety of experiences, from smooth, flowing singletrack to technical, rocky sections that will challenge even the most experienced riders.
In addition to the bike trails, the park offers a range of other amenities, including:
- Camping facilities
- Bath houses
- A 42-acre man-made freshwater lake for paddling, swimming, and fishing
- A portion of the Appalachian Trail that enters the eastern edge of the park on Bartman’s Hill Trail
Accessing the Trails
There is a fee to drive into the Greenbrier State Park, but there is free parking available outside the park. The park often reaches capacity on weekends and holidays, so it’s recommended to use the alternate parking at 21338 Greenbrier Rd, Boonsboro, MD 21713 to access the trail system during busy periods.
The Main Cup, a local bike shop located at 14 W Main St, Middletown, MD 21769, can provide trail information, maps, and bike rentals to help you make the most of your visit.
Highlights of the Greenbrier State Park Bike Trails
The Greenbrier State Park bike trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from smooth, flowing singletrack to technical, rocky sections that will challenge even the most experienced riders. Here are some of the highlights of the trail system:
Bartman’s Hill Trail
This section of the Appalachian Trail that enters the eastern edge of the park offers a scenic and challenging climb, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Technical Rock Gardens
The park is known for its technical rock gardens, which feature large, jagged boulders and rocky terrain that require precise bike handling skills to navigate.
Flowing Singletrack
In contrast to the technical sections, the park also features smooth, flowing singletrack trails that allow riders to maintain momentum and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Elevation Changes
The trails at Greenbrier State Park feature a significant amount of elevation change, with climbs and descents that will test the endurance and skill of riders.
Tips for Visiting Greenbrier State Park Bike Trails
To make the most of your visit to the Greenbrier State Park bike trails, consider the following tips:
- Plan Ahead: Check the park’s website or contact the Main Cup bike shop for the latest trail conditions and any closures or restrictions.
- Bring the Right Gear: Ensure you have a well-maintained bike, appropriate safety gear (helmet, gloves, etc.), and plenty of water and snacks to fuel your ride.
- Start Early: The park can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, so consider starting your ride early in the day to avoid the crowds.
- Respect the Trails: Stay on designated trails, follow all posted signs and regulations, and be mindful of other park users, such as hikers and equestrians.
- Explore the Surrounding Area: In addition to the bike trails, Greenbrier State Park offers a range of other outdoor activities, such as hiking, paddling, and fishing, so consider extending your visit to experience more of what the park has to offer.
Conclusion
The Greenbrier State Park bike trails offer a unique and challenging riding experience for mountain bikers of all abilities. With its rocky, technical terrain, significant elevation changes, and stunning natural surroundings, the park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an adventure-filled day on the trails. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the sport, the Greenbrier State Park bike trails are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.