Torrey C. Brown, Red and Yellow Trail
Torrey C. Brown, Red and Yellow Trail
3.3
(27)
56
hikers
01:39
6.04km
90m
Hiking
The Torrey C. Brown, Red and Yellow Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through northern Maryland's picturesque countryside. You'll follow a wide, crushed-stone path that traces the historic Northern Central Railway line, often running alongside the Big Gunpowder Falls River. The route is largely tree-lined, providing ample shade, and you can enjoy the sounds of rushing water and keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and various bird species.
This 3.8-mile (6.0 km) hike is rated easy, with a minimal 301 feet (92 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for nearly everyone. You can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 38 minutes. Before you go, check for any current closures as sections of the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail are undergoing resurfacing projects expected to last through early 2026.
What makes this trail special is its blend of natural beauty and history; it follows a railway line dating back to 1832. It's also incredibly versatile, accommodating hikers, joggers, cyclists, and even horseback riders. The trail connects seamlessly with Pennsylvania's Heritage Rail Trail, offering options for longer adventures if you wish to extend your journey.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.87 km
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
6.04 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.57 km
644 m
480 m
338 m
Surfaces
2.68 km
2.11 km
669 m
505 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (220 m)
Lowest point (160 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 16 July
36°C
23°C
13 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
This specific route, covering approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles), generally takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. However, this can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, the trail is rated as easy and is largely flat with a crushed gravel and dirt surface, making it very accessible for beginners, families, and hikers of nearly all ability levels. It's a great option for a gentle outdoor experience.
The trail primarily features a crushed gravel and dirt surface. It is largely flat, with minimal and gradual elevation changes, providing a smooth and accessible path for walking, jogging, or biking. The path is often tree-lined, offering shade.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail, which this route is part of. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets. Please be mindful of other trail users.
The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage. Summer provides welcome shade from the tree-lined path, and winter can offer peaceful, snowy landscapes. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail, including the section within the BeeTree Preserve, is part of Gunpowder Falls State Park. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day use of the trail itself. However, always check the official Maryland State Parks website for the most current information regarding any potential fees or regulations for specific park areas or activities.
As the trail parallels the Gunpowder River and is often tree-lined, you have opportunities to observe local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and various bird species. Beavers can sometimes be spotted near the river. The BeeTree Preserve itself is a forested area, adding to the natural beauty.
Access points with parking are available along the broader Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail. For this specific route within the BeeTree Preserve, look for designated parking areas that serve the preserve. Popular access points for the NCR Trail often include facilities like the Monkton Station, which offers restrooms and parking, though you may need to drive a short distance to reach the specific starting point of this 6km route.
Yes, this route is a segment of the larger Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail. The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail itself is a significant part of the East Coast Greenway and connects seamlessly with the York County Heritage Rail Trail at the Maryland-Pennsylvania state line. This specific 6km route also covers sections of the official "Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail" and "Red Trail" according to OpenStreetMap data.
While this specific 6km route might not have facilities directly on it, the broader Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail offers amenities at various points. The restored 1898 Monkton Train Station, a notable landmark along the main trail, provides reliably available restrooms and drinking fountains. It's advisable to carry your own water, especially during warmer months, and plan your stops accordingly.
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