Frederick Watershed

Beautiful drive through the Frederick Watershed. Dry conditions made for a nice, easy outing, with beautiful fall foliage along the way. A few 4x4s and AWDs were out enjoying the drive, with hikers and bikers sharing the route. A great spot to slow down, take in the scenery and get a little dusty.

The family and I decided to hit the trail and enjoy some beautiful weather outside. The wife wanted to see some fall foliage without the craziness of other people. She’s was able to get the photos she wanted and have a great time. There were only a few people and not much of a hindrance. Also, seen a group rock climbing just off the trail. Pretty neat to see. The trail was pretty easy to navigate with plenty of pull off spots to get out and and discover. I highly recommend this trail.

Great trail, had a lot of fun. Rained yesterday so everything was muddy and all the potholes were full of water which I enjoyed. I ended up doing the entire 9.5 mile loop, which I agree with the other reports that this should be a 2 if you’re doing the whole loop. The first couple miles were very rocky and had lots of holes and bumps. More toward the middle there was a very deep trench in the middle at a weird angle that can be a bit technical. My jeep did great, kept it in 2WD the whole time except for that deep trench cause one of the wheels was off the ground. I’ve got a 2 inch lift with 30’s and it had no problems navigating the more difficult rocky bits with deep ruts and angles. Definitely pay attention to where you’re going and be respectful of the space. Saw a few people walking the road and some deer. Would definitely go again!

It was a nice trail but there are a lot of holes and washout

I did the whole loop in a manual FWD. Safe to say it was the best experience I’ve had. You do not need a 4x4 vehicle to complete this trail but I would consider one when it rains/snows. Since it was my first time here it took me about 2 hours to complete because i would stop to take pictures or explore a bit.

Did the entire circle. Definitely a 2- not a one. Hugh clearance needed for sure if you are taking the whole route. Watch them puddles lol. Looks are deceiving.

Rough terrain, very fun but def more like a 2 than a 1

A lot more rugged and rocky than I expected for an easy trail

There wasn't many people and it was open the whole way through, only took me a little under an hour. Wasn't difficult at all in a AWD!

Easily navigable in a crossover. As other comments said, the ruts get more and more aggressive. You can straddle most of them or avoid them by hugging the shoulder though.

Trail was easy, some deeper ruts from water runoff and some puddles from previous days rain. Nothing too crazy left my 4Runner in 2 wheel drive.

First time on trail. Went pretty good

Nothing technical but it is rough.

Northern section of Gambrill Park Rd. is slightly deteriorated (unmaintained in winter)

For the most part it was a wet and foggy day while on the trail which made it that much more interesting and enjoyable to go through. A low hanging branch right in the middle of the trail at one point. There are rutted areas which makes it a less smooth trail during the winter season. A sign stated that this trail is not maintained during the winter so it's expected to have rutted areas. Easy trail and one of my favorite trails to go on.