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Gunpowder Falls State Park Sweet Air Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 173 Google reviews · Running trail in Baldwin, Maryland · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- 18 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Gunpowder Falls State Park Sweet Air Area'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.
Hikers’ and dog-walkers’ park offering picnic tables, clean trails, and water crossings (though a few are muddy), plus scenic views.
What runners say about Gunpowder Falls State Park Sweet Air Area
“The trails are well-maintained, offering a mix of peaceful riverside walks, forest paths, and scenic views.”
“The Gunpowder river is beautiful here and there are picturesque views and sweet little bridges.”
This review is a two-parter, the first paragraph is my experience on the trail and the second is advice for newcomers. I walked the boundary trail and had a blast! In the beginning its very spacious because the trails are for horses too.
Lots of miles of great trails but the only way to get to those on the other side of the creek is by walking through the creek. They have bridges over smaller creeks but not on the main creek.
We hiked up the 1.8 mile green trail. There's a picnic table at the top of the hill. Great place for a picnic!
Finally made it up to this area of Gunpowder Falls and it didn't disappoint. Great trails, just beautiful!
Trail conditions & character
“The Gunpowder river is beautiful here and there are picturesque views and sweet little bridges.”
“Towards the very end of my trek the trails were muddy even though it hadn't rained for a couple days.”
“Be prepared for some hills on most trails and also some mud when you get closer to the creek.”
“Great place to go for a hike, but there are always lots of ticks on our dog when we get home.”
“Thank you for reading my rambling if you did, overall you will not be disappointed with this trail however you will be exhausted if you decide to do the full loop.”
“9 miles, but I made it 7 with my off trail exploration.”
Plan your run at Gunpowder Falls State Park Sweet Air Area
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Loop distance18 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitednr.maryland.gov
- Phone+1 800-825-7275
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–6 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–6 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–6 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–6 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–6 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–6 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–6 pm |
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