About
Lostland Run Trailhead is the gateway to the Lostland Run Natural Area in Potomac State Forest, at 1431 Potomac Camp Rd, by the Potomac-Garrett State Forest headquarters east of Oakland. The trail follows Lostland Run down to the Potomac River and suits hikers ready for rugged ground and creek crossings.
The Trail and What You'll Find
Maryland DNR describes a 3.5-mile marked trail that follows the stream past waterfalls and across a suspension bridge to the run's confluence with the Potomac River; Garrett Trails puts the Upper and Lower Lostland Run Trails at about 4 miles one way. Along the way are several cascades, the slide waterfall at Cascade Falls, remnants of Civilian Conservation Corps fish-rearing ponds from the Great Depression, and CCC stonework at an overlook of the Potomac.
The natural area protects old-growth eastern hemlock, ravines and sandstone outcrops. DNR notes brook trout in the stream, rare species such as the southern rock vole and long-tailed shrew, the threatened pipevine and the pipevine swallowtail butterflies that depend on it, and spring wildflowers like trilliums and Jack-in-the-pulpit.
Parking and Access
- Upper trailhead: at the Forest Resource Center on Potomac Camp Road, near forest headquarters.
- Lower parking: at the end of Lostland Run Road by the Potomac River, with marked parking for Cascade Falls along the way.
- Lostland Run Road is a rugged dirt road, and DNR currently lists it closed at Campsite 22 because of unsafe bridge conditions, so check the road's status before you plan to drive down.
Before You Go
Expect steep, rugged terrain, stream crossings and ticks. Hunters use Potomac State Forest in season, horses are not allowed on the Lostland Run foot trails, and pets must stay on a leash. There are primitive campsites in the valley, and trail guides are sold at forest headquarters and through shopdnr.com.
A quick call to the forest office before your trip gets you a map and the latest on closures; DNR also lists (301) 707-6539 for the forest headquarters.
Address
1431 Potomac Camp Rd, Oakland, MD 21550