You might wonder what one can do with abandoned railroad track. Rails to Trails Conservancy has a pretty good idea - they’re a national organization that advocates transforming abandoned railroad right of ways into public trails. The Baltimore and Annapolis Trail is one of their many successes.

The B&A Trail is maintained by the Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks Department. The 13.3-mile trail follows the route of the old Baltimore and Annapolis Railroad from its northern origin in Glen Burnie to Annapolis in the south. The paved trail is 10 feet wide and is used by hikers, bikers, joggers, equestrians, and other users. The Park is 66 feet wide and encompasses 112 acres. Signs of the old railroad are still present - switch boxes, sections of track, and the Severna Park Railroad Station can all be found along the trail’s length.

The rail is patrolled daily by Park Rangers and the trail is maintained regularly. There are several sections to park along the trail. A northern parking lot is located at Earleigh Heights Road, adjacent to the Ranger Station. The southern lot is at Rt. 450 and Boulters Way. Both parking lots are open daily dawn to dusk. Additional parking is available at a Park and Ride lot and a Glen Burnie parking garage.

The Park is open sunrise to sunset. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited, and pets must be on a leash and under control at all times.

The Park has several opportunities for volunteers. “Blazers” are special volunteers who learn park operation procedures and basic first aid and assist visitors by patrolling the park regularly and serving as trail ambassadors. Training sessions are frequently offered; contact the Park for more details.

Garden Volunteers help by planting and tending to flower beds along the trail.

You may contact the Park at (301) 222-6244. The Park’s address is B&A Trail Park; P.O. Box 1007; Severna Park, Md 21146.