Description: This 5 mile (one-way) hiking trail criss-crosses Monroe Run as it climbs from the Big Run State Park campground to Monroe Run Overlook. Crumbling bridge abutments are the only remaining evidence that this scenic trail was formerly a rural roadway built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s. There are plenty of chances to cool your feet along this trail as frequent stream crossings with no bridges occur. Car shuttle is possible using Big Run Road from New Germany Road to the Savage River Reservoir end of the trail.
Use: Hiking only.
Difficulty: Moderate
Directions: Drive 6.4 miles from Route 495 at Glendale Road. East trail head – Go 1.9 miles on New Germany Road to Monroe Trail Parking on the right side. West Trail head – Go 4.5 miles on New Germany Road to Big Run Road and turn right. Follow Big Run Road for 4.5 miles, cross a one-lane bridge and enter the trail parking area on the right.
Directions to the New Germany Road trailhead on Google Maps
Directions to the Big Run State Park trailhead on Google Maps
Resource Links:
Use: Hiking only.
Difficulty: Moderate
Directions: Drive 6.4 miles from Route 495 at Glendale Road. East trail head – Go 1.9 miles on New Germany Road to Monroe Trail Parking on the right side. West Trail head – Go 4.5 miles on New Germany Road to Big Run Road and turn right. Follow Big Run Road for 4.5 miles, cross a one-lane bridge and enter the trail parking area on the right.
Directions to the New Germany Road trailhead on Google Maps
Directions to the Big Run State Park trailhead on Google Maps
Resource Links:
- Maryland DNR – Big Run State Park Homepage
- Maryland DNR Trail Atlas – Monroe Run Hiking Trail