Oella - Five-ish miles with 500' feet of gain

We'll have a short-ish hike in the Oella area. Our speed will be about 2 1/4 mph for 5-ish miles (including an optional out-and-back loop to the Breadery toward the end of the hike) with about 500' of elevation gain. There are no stream crossings and the hills are typically modest but there's one steep, relatively short hill that we'll get behind us early on. We'll have a snack break at the Banneker park HQ and a potential post-hike lunch at the Trolley Stop or Old Mill restaurants. Both are short walks from where we'll be parking.

Please do not sign up for this hike if you haven't completed a similar hike recently. The Mountain Club of Maryland (see MCOMD.org) offers multiple alternate hikes of varying difficulty - easy through very strenuous - throughout the week. Check out their schedule on their website

We will be walking on some grassy sections so long trousers and tick spray are highly recommended even in winter months. There is no water on the trail.

Here's where we'll meet: 6 Oella Avenue, Catonsville, MD 39.2682, -76.7933. Please do not park in the Trolley Stop or The Old Mill parking lots.

Note that we do not wait for late-comers so please plan ahead.

Please do not sign up for this hike unless you have a reasonable expectation of attending.

Expect mud, rocks and roots on the trails. We will try to maintain appropriate distances from each other.

By registering for this hike, you agree to the following waiver of liability:

“I am aware of the risks inherent in outdoor activities. Therefore, I will be responsible for my own well-being while participating in the activities of the Mountain Club of Maryland, and while traveling to and from these activities. I agree that the Mountian Club of Meetup Group, its officers, representatives, and trip leaders are not liable individually or collectively for any injury, disease, sickness, loss, or damage to my person or property, direct or consequential, arising out of the activities of the Group. Neither I nor anyone in my household is currently in quarantine, is awaiting the results of a corona-virus test, or has a fever, or any flu-like symptoms.”

Come hike with us! It's good for your heart and good for your soul.