Morgan Run Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Wildflowers

This hike embodies the many different characteristics of the varied terrain and scenery that exemplify Liberty Reservoir including secluded coves, stream delta marshes, large planted white pine groves and undulating Piedmont terrain.

Additionally, in the northwestern regions of the trail, it parallels the banks of the scenic Morgan Run above the reservoir as it flows, bubbles, and cascades through a rocky gorge whose banks are covered in verdant moss and mountain laurel more reminiscent of some scene in the Blue Ridge to the west rather than just outside of Baltimore. This scene is somewhat unequaled in the Liberty Reservoir area.

From the parking area on MD-32, proceed to the north end of the lot, cross MD-32, and follow the footpath just before the guardrail, then proceed to the fire road and bear right. The hike continues parallel to the road for 0.2 mi before bearing to the left and descending to the reservoir.

For the next 1.5 mi. the trail generally follows the contours of the shoreline. At 1.7 mi. the trail ascends to a powerline cut at mile 2.0, then proceeds west down the cut for 0.2 mi before descending to Morgan Run above the reservoir.

The trail parallels the creek for 0.2 mi. before coming to London Bridge Road, crossing to the opposite bank on the shoulder and then proceeding back down the creek for another 0.7 mi. Where the creek reaches the upper extent of the reservoir, the trail bears west away from the bank and proceeds through a pine plantation, briefly skirting the shoreline around mile 4.0.

At mile 5.7, the trail crosses Little Morgan Run (which may require an ankle deep ford depending on water levels). At mile 8.0, the trail reaches MD-32 and crosses the reservoir to parking area on road shoulder. Although traffic volumes are low, the shoulder isn't very wide or raised so exercise extreme caution during crossing.