Use onX Backcountry to explore the terrain in 3D, view recent satellite imagery, and more. Now available in onX Backcountry Mobile apps! For more information see this post.
Elevation: 209 ft 64 m
GPS: 39.31536, -76.79329
Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views: 30,489 total · 379/month
Shared By: John Kelbel on Apr 23, 2018
Admins: Frances Fierst, C S

Description Suggest change

The Alberton area of Patapsco State Park offers several rock outcrops, Alberton Rock is 50 foot tall and Upper Alberton tops out at 30 feet tall. The rest of the areas outcrops are boulders some of which are very good. All the rock is dominantly South facing along the Patapsco River. So Summertime climbing may be hot and humid, however, the river is available for a refreshing dip after climbing.

Alberton History
Alberton is the name of the road which is now the trail you will be walking on. Walking further past the rocks will bring you to the old mill town of Alberton with only a few remaining buildings however there are lots of old foundations to explore. The Alberton post office operated in the community from 1854 to 1943. After a flood occurred around 1867 the mill was sold to C.R. Daniels and the town was renamed, Daniels. In 1972 Hurricane Agnes wiped out most of Daniels and all homes that lined the Patapsco River on both sides. A blessing in disguise was that the town residents were forced out of the town a week before the Hurricane hit! The reason the town was temporally condemned was the main water source got contaminated, the spring house is still up in the wood behind Gary Memorial Church, which is still standing on the opposite of the river.

Getting There Suggest change

Located 3.2 miles outside of the Baltimore Beltway (695) from Security Blvd at exit 17. The parking lot is located on Dogwood rd directly across from the following address, 8100 Dogwood Rd, Windsor Mill, MD 21244. On nice days this 8 to 10 car parking lot can fill up quickly,  Please think about leaving room for others by parking reasonably tight.  All overflow parking on the shoulder of Hollifield rd has been posted NO PARKING as of 8/12/2019.

From the parking lot noted above walk through a gated driveway and around the corner to the right passing a private home. The owners would like everyone to stay on the outer left side of the circular driveway, farther away from the house. Even though the park entrance is straight ahead and in sight doing this small joggle will help to maintain your easy access.  It's about a 15minute approach.

Alternative Legal Parking can be obtained in the Pickall Park Entrance off Johnnycake Rd. The New Dogwood trail provides a nice long 1.7mile approach. Also if you're meeting a few people you may try to car pool from the gravel parking lot on Old Frederick Rd next to the railroad. However this lot is often filled also but holds a lot more cars.

28 Total Climbs

Route Finder - Best Climbs for YOU!

Location: Alberton Change
Type:  to 
Quality:
Pitches:
Sort by:   then:
 

Classic Climbing Routes at Alberton

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
More Classic Climbs in Alberton »

Weather Averages

High
 
Low
 
Precip
 
Days w Precip
 
Prime Climbing Season
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D

Photos

loading