The Schaeffer Farm Trails are a part of Seneca Creek State Park and are located just a few miles from the Clopper Lake day-use area in Germantown, MD. These trails were created specifically for mountain bikers, and are even the site of several mountain biking races throughout the year such as the Schaeffer Farm Scramble. The Schaeffer Farm trails are also great for running and hiking. Whatever activity you choose, you will be able to enjoy great views of forests, fields, farms, creeks, and depending on the season, a good variety of blooming trees and wildflowers.
The Schaffer Farm trail system starts at a well-maintained parking lot off of Schaeffer road. The trails consist of three loops with the potential to do upwards of 9 miles of biking, hiking, or running. There are trail maps posted at many major trail intersections, so it is difficult to get lost. The yellow, western loop is slightly difficult to navigate due to the trail going through the farm fields. Also, the small red loop that starts from the yellow loop can lead to Dawsonville Regional Park. If you reach Schaeffer Road again from the red trail, you have gone too far. Overall, the Schaeffer Farm Trails are a great destination for a peaceful day spent with nature.
Directions:
From I-270 Northbound, take exit 10 for Clopper Road/MD-117. Take a left onto Schaeffer Road and pass through the traffic circle at the South Germantown Recreational Park. Continue on Schaeffer Road, passing Burdette Lane, and take the next left when Schaeffer Road begins to curve to the right. Google Maps labels this road as Kingsview Village Ave. This is a short gravel road that leads to the parking lot.
