Near Beginner Intermediate Trail
Mossy outcropping. Several along the trail. Quite magical.

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Beginner Intermediate Trail

4.3 (3 Ratings)
A beginner-friendly warm-up for Emmitsburg's rolling, rocky goods.
1.4
mi
Distance
185
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Access Issues
During hunting season, the Emmitsburg trails are only open Sundaysbe aware of posted signage.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.45mi
Distance
185ft
Elevation Gain
125ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
1,061ft
High Point
874ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This green-blazed trail is located across the earthen dam at Rainbow Lake. Cross the dam from the parking area and turn left into the woods to enter this lollipop-shaped loop. The Beginner Intermediate trail runs approximately 1.6 miles and is characterized by diverse sections where you can find rolling sections, rock gardens, and a short but challenging climb. This trail is a great place to learn to hike the rocky terrain characteristic of the Mid-Atlantic's mountains, and offers smooth sections for a respite and self-confidence boost, before delivering the next challenge.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Blue Ridge Summit - Thurmont - Wolf Rock

Hike Route

Blue Ridge Summit - Thurmont - Wolf Rock

Birding
strenuous
4.62 mi
+1,023 ft
Hog Rock

Hike Route

Hog Rock

Views
moderate
4.6 mi
+999 ft
Wolf Rock / Chimney Rock Loop

Hike Route

Wolf Rock / Chimney Rock Loop

Fall Colors
moderate
3.67 mi
+848 ft
Cat Rock Mountain via Old Misery Trail

Hike Route

Cat Rock Mountain via Old Misery Trail

Lake
easy
1.47 mi
+669 ft
Cunningham Falls Out-and-Back

Hike Route

Cunningham Falls Out-and-Back

ADA Accessible
easy
1.2 mi
+160 ft
Appalachian Trail: Wolfsville Road to Pen Mar Park

Hike Route

Appalachian Trail: Wolfsville Road to Pen Mar Park

Birding
strenuous
9.49 mi
+1,841 ft
Contributors
Ryan Delaney