Black Hill Regional Park, Ten Mile Creek

Black Hill Regional Park, Ten Mile Creek

The western end of the Black Hill Regional Park is far more rustic than the rest of the park. Ten Mile Creek empties into Little Seneca Lake, and as in other parts of the park, forms great fishing opportunities. The land surrounding the lake is wooded and hilly. A few fields cleared long ago are now growing new trees and sit 100 vertical ft. above the lake. The elevated fields offer some glimpses of the lake however trees mostly obscure the view. Few people use this part of the park but that might be good reason for you to like it.

Getting There

From the Capital Beltway (I-495), take I-270 headed west. About 14 miles from the beltway, take Exit 16, Ridge Rd. headed east. Turn left after 1 mile on Federick Rd (Rte 355). Less than a mile later, turn left onto West Old Baltimore Rd. Cross under I-270 and pass the main entrance for Black Hill Regional Park on your left. Six tenths of a mile straight past the intersection with Clarksburg Rd. Rte 121, turn left onto the gravel and dirt Ten Mile Creek Rd. Park on the side of the road before the gate which prevents the public from driving further. Do not block traffic.

Area Routes

Osprey Heights Loop (2.85 miles, IV)

Though low in mileage, this route will still give you a suitable workout. Following Ten Mile Creek Rd. downhill past the gate, you first cross Ten Mile Creek, then go up and down along the lake shore on a grassy trail. Passing the first couple of side trails for Turkey Hill and Lake View will avoid steep climbs on little used grassy trails. The view you get on the side loops is minimal despite one of their names being Lake View. The trail going straight, continues to climb and fall before taking a big dip down to another creek. Climbing out of this pretty creek little valley will place you in the fields of the Osprey Heights loop. The grassy trails in and around the field are maintained by mowing them. Bearing left to go clockwise, drop down in elevation slightly but be careful not to go too far. A side trail going steeply down the hill will be on your left. Climb as you begin to loop back, then drop back down again to complete the loop. The views are probably best during the winter when there are no leaves. Go back the way you came over the roller coaster trail.