Fort Frederick State Park To Host Rail Trail Bike Ride

Big Pool, Md. (June 3, 2011) — Fort Frederick State Park will host a guided bike ride on the Western Maryland Rail Trail on June 11.

The public is invited to join naturalist Charles Sullivan for a guided leisurely ride through the wilds of western Maryland. Participants will have the opportunity to learn the names of some of Maryland’s wildflowers, identify common trees, meet new friends and relax in the shade, while cruising along this mostly level, paved trail.

Bike rentals are available at the bicycle shop, located along the Western Maryland Rail Trail and the C&O Canal National Historic Park in Hancock. Refreshments and snacks are also available at the bicycle shop and throughout the area.

Participants will meet at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 11 at the C&O Bicycle Shop. Attendees should dress for the weather and carry plenty of water. The 23-mile trip is not strenuous and can be completed by most people, young and old alike. The ride will last about 4 hours. Seven days advance notice is requested.

For more information or to sign up, please call 301-842-2155. Disabled access is available and accommodations for individuals with disabilities will be provided upon request. C&O Bicycle is located at 9 South Pennsylvania Avenue, Hancock, Md. 21750.

Maryland’s State Parks not only provide great outdoor recreation for Marylanders and visitors, they are also a great asset to State and local economies. According to a recent study, conducted in partnership with the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, the Maryland Office of Tourism Development and the Maryland Association of Destination Marketing Organizations, Maryland State Parks have an estimated annual economic benefit of more than $650 million. In 2010, visitors directly spent more than $567 million locally — $25.56 locally for every dollar the State invests in State Parks —during their visits. And almost 95 percent of visitors had their expectations met or exceeded during visits.