John P. Saylor Trail (Middle Ridge Loop)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Birding · River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Swinging bridge is no longer closed. Cross with care or wade through the shallow Clear Shade Creek. The trail is EXTREMELY muddy in some spots.

Beginning with the John P. Saylor Trail Connector, the trail starts with a steep downhill from the parking area and flattens out when you turn right onto the John P. Saylor Trail. Follow this for a short time, and you'll reach the Middle Ridge Loop.

The trail crosses over Clear Shade Creek on a swinging bridge (currently closed, repairs needed). From there, the trail follows the creek for about a couple miles. This area is extremely muddy! At a few points, I was mid-calf deep in mud with no apparent alternate route around. The trail then veers off left up the mountain.

About halfway, there is a small shelter to turn your day run into an overnighter. Wake up and enjoy the run through the quiet, forested mountain before you finish with a steep downhill where you meet up with the creek again. This sections is also muddy. End your run with another steep uphill back to the parking area.