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Crystal Rock Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 83 Google reviews · Running trail in Germantown, Maryland · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Crystal Rock Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Wooded site featuring lakes, hiking trails (some paved), forests and creaks.
What runners say about Crystal Rock Trail
“This paved trail is a hidden gem which runs along a beautiful stream and creek.”
“It is completely shaded, heavily shaded, so it is much cooler during the hot afternoons.”
“The trails are mostly paved, which is great for people looking for an easy hike.”
Very nice park. The trails are mostly paved, which is great for people looking for an easy hike. It is a little confusing hiking around if you are using Google Maps - not all the trails are marked - so I recommend following the signs or using a trail app/website.
This paved trail is a hidden gem which runs along a beautiful stream and creek. It's not overly challenging and perfect for all ages. It's nearly completely covered in tree cover. The path is both for hiking and biking.
We have been looking for walking trails that are natural, but not nature trail paths. This walking trail is actually a prepared path with an excellent surface that is smooth. One does not have to watch your footing so you can enjoy winding through the woods.
The initial impression of this trail was not at all reflective of the overall trail system. It was more enjoyable and a good trail for a family. As you explore the area, there are numerous side trails and the lake and water area.
Trail conditions & character
“We love this trail it connects to Blackhills Park and the trail is very stroller friendly as most of it is paved or boardwalk.”
“It is completely shaded, heavily shaded, so it is much cooler during the hot afternoons.”
“Nice place for a walk or hiking Lots of people with different activities Good place to walk your dog and spend some time with family members”
“Varied walking from level to slight grades and a few higher grades, but no real challenging hills making it easy to keep up a rapid walking pace.”
“I did find it difficult to navigate a complete loop around the water.”
“There are a lot of small parking lots throughout the park and lots of street parking by the entrance.”
“We love this trail it connects to Blackhills Park and the trail is very stroller friendly as most of it is paved or boardwalk.”
“We love this trail it connects to Blackhills Park and the trail is very stroller friendly as most of it is paved or boardwalk.”
Plan your run at Crystal Rock Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitemontgomeryparks.org
- Phone+1 301-495-2595
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–7 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–7 pm |
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