Study for Possible Trail System in Emmitsburg

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The Potomac Conservancy was contracted by Mount Saint Mary’s University, the Town of Emmitsburg and the Catoctin Land Trust to conduct a Natural Resources Assessment, which looked at approximately 1100 acres of land owned by Mt. St. Mary’s University and the Town of Emmitsburg, in preparation for a trail establishment project. The properties are mostly located on College Mountain and features hardwood forests, fallow farm fields, wildlife clearings, harvested forest areas, mountain streams, spring seeps, boulder fields, and rock outcrops. The north side of College Mountain -owned by the Town of Emmitsburg- drains to Turkey Run a tributary of Toms Creek and the south side -owned by Mt. St. Mary’s University- mostly drains to Little Owens Creek a tributary to Owens Creek. The area immediately surrounding Rainbow Lake is designated as containing species of special state concern. The property features long vistas of Emmitsburg, the Gettysburg valley, agrarian lands, large un-fragmented forest blocks and neighboring Derr Hill. Surrounded by historically significant areas such as Gettysburg, Catoctin Furnace, and the Grotto de Lourdes makes this areas noteworthy not only for its scenic natural features but also its historical and cultural attributes. However, College Mountain also faces a number of threats including invasive plants, deer over population, gypsy moth infestations, and impacts from motorized off-road vehicles. The Natural Resources Assessment will provide an information base to be used during the planning, construction and maintenance of the trail system.

Click here to view a map of the parcels where the trail is being considered.