Believe me when I say that Falker’s face says all you need to know about our little hike at Elk Neck State Park this morning. In addition to a trail review, this is my open apology letter to Falker who regretted every minute of agreeing to go hiking with me this morning. Let me start by saying, as much as I distrust park map ratings… this one is definitely earning its “difficult” rating.
We started this ill fated adventure at Rogue’s Harbor Boat Ramp where one of the trail heads for White Banks trail is. My original plan was to park one car at one trail head and the other at the end point. This was not possible because the beach side of the park was closed for construction. So we had to do this out and back. Out and backs are my least favorite kind of trails. Thru trails, love them. Loop Trails hold a special place on the mantel. Out and Back trails? Well… they are truly the dark side of hiking. Combined with the 3,000 feet worth of total elevation gain over the course of the trail, this became a real bear.
One thing that I can say for this challenging trail right off the bat- it is very clearly marked. Where there is any question about which way to go, it is easy to find one of these trail markers with an arrow or a white trail blazer on a tree. Additionally the trail is pretty well maintained, save a few places where recent storms have caused some downing of trees. Not getting lost is important with this trail because of its steepness, cliffside look outs, and distance traveled on a grade. I have previous gotten frustrated at Elk Neck for its trail marking, or lack there of, but I will give them props where they deserve it. Well done.
The view from the actual White Banks cliff is well worth the hike out. Believe me when I say this trail makes you work for the view, but the view it provides is one pretty unrivaled on the Chesapeake Bay. Here we are out of breath and still only about half way through our 6 mile hike. While the switchbacks were very well done, you will doubtlessly be out of breath before you see White Banks, leaving very little for it to take away.
Overall Rating:
Best Parts: The view from White Banks looking out over the water, well placed switchbacks, and well maintained trail markers.
Worst Parts: The confusing amount of uphill necessary to get to White Banks from either trailhead. The fact that the “Difficult” rating on the map was dead right.
Recommendation: Amazing views, but be prepared to work for it! It is difficult, so come prepared for a real hike!
UnBEARable Adventures 
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