Green Ridge State Forest - Deep Run/Big Run Trail - Hiking trail near Flintstone, Maryland, United States - Description

Green Ridge is the second largest of Maryland's State Forests consisting of a 46,000-acre oak-hickory forest. It is located in eastern Allegany County, approximately eight miles east of Flintstone off I-68 at Exit 64.

The forest is located in the Ridge and Valley Province of the Allegheny Mountain chain. The average annual precipitation is 36 inches, the lowest in the state. Town Hill, Green Ridge and Polish Mountains elevation varies from 475 feet at the Potomac River to 2,039 feet on Town Hill. Magnificent views of the surrounding landscape can be seen from Point Lookout, Banners, Logroll, Warrior Mountain and No Name Overlooks. Rich in history, the forest was once the site for the Carroll Furnace , originally built as part of a steam powered saw mill in the 1830's.

During the 19th century, the forest was used commercially for mining iron ore, harvesting timber and even growing apples. The forest's condition suffered under these early uses, until officially coming into state ownership in 1931. Since then, forest managers have allowed young stands of trees to mature, improved wildlife habitat and fisheries, reduced wildfires, protected water quality and provided a variety of recreation opportunities. Timber harvesting continues to be an important management tool for improving the health of the forest.

Deep Run/Big Run Trail: 7 miles - moderate

This trail passes a State Wildland, an area designated for the special protection of unique flora and fauna in the forest. The region's annual precipitation is the lowest in the State -- just 36 inches -- creating pockets of desert-like habitats known as shale barrens. Uncommon plants, like the prickly pear cactus, large blazing star and Kate's mountain clover are found here.

From Washington, D.C./Baltimore: (Travel time approximately 2 hours.) Take I-70 west to I-68 west. Take exit #64 (M.V. Smith Road). Make a right onto M.V. Smith Road. The Headquarters Drive is on the right after crossing I-68.

From Pittsburgh: (Travel time approximately 3 1/2 hours.) Take I-79 to I-68 east. Take exit #64 (M.V. Smith Road). Take a right onto M.V. Smith Road. The Headquarters Drive is immediately on the right.