COMMENTARY: For those that have been following me for a while, now that I am starting to post these hikes on Everytrail, I’m going to transition my hiking posts to showcase the highlights along these trails. Hopefully this will be more enjoyable for those that are now following Hoofbeats & Footprints. I’m fortunate to live and hike in an area that has many historical and natural features that should be celebrated.
On a personal note, this hike was personal BEST ! Between hiking over 13 miles, and total ascent of 2865 feet throughout the hike in one day while not choking going up the hills, I feel that I’m almost ready for the Inca Trail. There have been some keys to my success which I’ll chat about soon. Hopefully I’ll be able to help someone out there that also struggles along the trail like I do.
For those that want more information on the trail, please read below and follow the links to Everytrail.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Greenbrier State Park and Visitor’s Center
Washington Monument – Boonesboro, Maryland
The Washington Monument State Park is located on top of South Mountain, and was built by Boonesboro villagers in 1827. This is the first monument completed to honor George Washington. You can walk up the monument, and get a wonderful view of both east and west of South Mountain.
Overview: This out-an-back 13 mile hike in Washington County begins in a far corner of Greenbrier State Park. With significant inclines, this hike passes Greenbrier Lake, and the Visitors center for Greenbrier State Park. It then ascends the Bartman Trail that connects to the Appalachian Trail. Heading south towards Washington Monument, the trail continues to climb. Many rocky trail sections, but no stream crossings. Some sections in Greenbrier SP can be muddy. This hike takes a minimum of five hours, and has about 2865 feet of total ascent, with the altitudes up to 1500 feet.
Bring plenty of water, at least two liters per person. Walking sticks are helpful on the rocky sections of the trail.
DIRECTIONS TO HIKE SITE:
Take I-70 west from Baltimore
Take Exit 42 and head north on Route 17 through Myersville.
Look for sharp right turn to continue on Route 17 in Myersville.
Go to first stop light and turn left onto US-40 for 4 miles.
Turn left at Mount Lena Road for 1/2 mile.
Turn left at Greenbrier Road for 1.2 miles.
Turn left at stop sign. Proceed straight head through second stop sign, road turns into Mountain Laurel Road.
Go for .8 miles and see parking lot on left. Immediately after 8134 Mountain Laurel Road on the left and is a hairpin turn into the lot.
TRAIL MAPS & PARK LINKS:
Greenbrier State Park
Washington Monument
My Delorme Trail Map
Greenbrier State Park to Washington Monument 13H at EveryTrail | Download Guide to your iPhone or Android
Categories: Foot Prints, Maryland Area Hikes
Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art 
I love your photos and the information you share with your readers – Thanks!
Beautiful!
Awwww…Thank you Stephanie!
What a great place to hike – I love the hiking sticks for people to pick up. 13 miles…someday.
You’re back !! I’ve missed you this week ! How did your project go? Hopefully all went well successfully. I love those walking sticks too – wanted to take one home with me.
I am still buried – but no longer willing to sacrifice the project. 45 stairs so far with more planned.
That’s 45 more than me ! I started with a personal trainer today as I lack total motivation. Need someone to kick my butt for me!
Bella,
You should join the Mountain Club of Maryland, which hikes all over Maryland, and down in VA, and up in PA……from easy hikes for those at leisure, to demanding hikes like the one you’ve done at GreenBriar to the Boonsboro monument….etc. ..you’ll make friends, find people with similar interests, and have a great time. Lots of our members have done trails all over….we’re a very diverse and interesting group. And I’d welcome any questions.
Check us out…. .
Rosie/mdhiker
Hi Rosie,
I am a five-year plus member of the Mountain Club of Maryland and they are a fabulous hiking group in Maryland. I can’t recommend them enough for those who re in the area.
Awesome blog. Big fan. Def be back to read more.
Thank you so much for your kind words. I look forward to your return.