This is
a great short hike, but don’t expect to see an “overlook”. The walk follows the Little Patuxent River for
the most part along a nicely maintained trail. Riley was tempted to jump in the river, which is very shallow in this area.
After about .5 miles there is a little foot bridge that crosses over into a meadow area.
This is
one of those areas that will make you think you are far, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The area is great
for birdwatching, especially woodpeckers. I enjoyed looking for wildflowers during our mid-April walk.
After this
walk, you should plan to make a stop at the Forest Diner for a bite to eat, and/or the Forest Motel Soft Serve (next door to the diner) for some ice cream. Both have outdoor seating, and are about a mile from the Turf Valley
Overlook walk.
The Font Hill Park walk is also nearby (about 2 miles from the Turf Valley Overlook walk)—if you feel like doing an easy, relaxed
walk to look for turtles and geese.
LOCATION, PARKING & MORE INFO
The Turf Valley Overlook Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the David W.
Force Park in Ellicott City, near the Turf Valley Country Club Resort. Parking
is along the street on Font Hill Drive. Look for the trailhead on the right.
David W. Force Park - Trail Map
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EATERIES & SHOPS
Forest Diner - shaded outdoor seating with outdoor table waiter service (but let the staff
know you're there). Menu online. Serves breakfast all day. Beer available.
10031 Baltimore
National, Ellicott City. 410.465.5395
Forest Motel “Soft Serve” – open seasonally. Walk-up window and nearby picnic tables. 10021 Baltimore National, Ellicott City. 410.465.2090.
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Have you tried the Turf Valley Overlook walk?
Please feel free to send comments!
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1.5
miles
Easy
to moderate
In
and back
Unpaved,
unmarked, maintained trails
Mostly
shade
No
street crossings
No
places to rest en route
Some options
for continuing on a longer walk
Not
wheelchair accessible
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