Uncover the silent ruins of once bustling 19th century river towns as we hike the Rail and Ridge trail loop at Susquehanna State Park.
Susquehanna State Park in Harford County, Maryland encompasses numerous historic sites from a once bustling riverside community. We began our tour of the northern half of the state park at the historic Rock Run Grist Mill. There is parking in a large lot on the south side of the mill at 39.60785, -76.14198. Additional parking on a long roadside gravel strip is available on the north side of the mill.
From the mill we north on the old Susquehanna Power Company rail line. The railroad tracks were built on top of the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal tow path in the 1920s to transport materials for the construction of the Conowingo Dam. Amazingly the rails and ties are still intact. The trail runs along the narrow rail bed with the old canal to the left and the Susquehanna River to the right. We took a moment to turn aside to a viewing platform overlooking the river at 39.60834, -76.14240. This historic site is where the first bridge in Maryland to span the Susquehanna River was built in 1818. You can still see the ruins of the stone piers in the river today.
The trail along the railroad was clear, but very brushy on either side. We crossed a bridge over Deer Creek to a low-lying peninsula adjacent to the ruins of one of a canal lock. Although dry during our visit, this area looked like it could get wet and muddy. Numerous short spurs provided access to the river through the brush. After enjoying a river view from the trail at 39.62417, -76.15675, we turned inland (left) at 39.62646, -76.15900.
The trail followed Deer Creek to a fascinating cylindrical stone tower crowned with a conical brick top. This strange edifice is a flint furnace. it is the only remaining structure from the once busting town of Stafford. The furnace was used to bake flint which was ground to powder and used to make porcelain and china. The town of Stafford was in decline at the turn of the 20th century and was abandoned after much of it was destroyed by an ice gorge in 1904. You can learn more at our article on the Stafford Flint Furnace.
From the Staford Flint Furnace we crossed the bridge over Deer Creek and proceeded up a short incline past the Deer Creek Picnic Area. We opted for a side excursion to explore a ravine via a loop formed by the Deer Creek Trail and Farm Road Trail. The Deer Creek Trail traversed the upper slope of the ravine, and judging from its gradual grade and smooth packed earth surface, it is a popular mountain biking route. The way back down via the Farm Road Trail was a little rocker and followed closely to the stream. Overall, both were nothing to write home about – just a pleasant walk in the woods.
From the ravine excursion, we headed back south on the Susquehanna Ridge Trail. This roughly parallels the abandoned railroad trail we took on the first leg of our hike, but at the top of the ridge. We hoped for some scenic views of the river from the height, but the best we got were broken sights through the bare trees. The trail returned us to Rock Run. As a final stop, we visited the exceptionally well preserved, stately Rock Run (Carter-Archer) Mansion. You can learn more about it in our adventure to Rock Run.
Overall, the loop we took was approximately 5.6 miles.
See the lime green route in the map below.
There are multiple parking areas throughout Susquehanna State Park; we parked in the lot next to the grist mill at 39.60785, -76.14198.
Overall, the hike was easy with a little incline up to the Susquehanna Ridge Trail. The trails are clear and well maintained; however, throughout most of the park the areas off trail are thick with brush. Apart from the banks of the Susquehanna, there are no scenic views. But the ruins and historic value of Susquehanna State Park make this an exceptional excursion for adventurers with an interest in history or an appreciation for beautiful old stone buildings. The trails and historic attractions are easily accessible and situated on the majestic Susquehanna River. Thus, Susquehanna State Park is popular among a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts, including families. Expect company especially during pleasant weather.
While you are in the neighborhood, you can explore these nearby adventures:
Be sure to check out our other adventures.
