Schiffendecker Loop

This short and easy route begins at the Bender Lane trailhead in Glenmont and weaves through the Schiffendecker Farm Preserve using a combination of the Yellow, Red, and Blue Trails. Hikers should start on the Yellow Trail, which serves as the main loop through the forested preserve. At a marked junction, the Blue Trail branches off and climbs slightly to higher ground, offering a brief change in elevation and a different perspective of the surrounding woods. The route eventually connects with the Red Trail, which loops around a peninsula and rejoins the Yellow Trail going the trailhead. The terrain includes wooded ravines, small footbridges over seasonal streams, and sections of boardwalk through potentially muddy areas. While the preserve is nestled behind a suburban commercial area, it feels tucked away thanks to the mature forest and limited trail traffic. This route is a great option for locals looking for a quiet walk in the woods without leaving town.