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Hiking trails & Routes
United States
Maryland
Montgomery County

Hard Cider, Purdum, and Loggers Loop

Easy

3.0

(28)

41

hikers

Hard Cider, Purdum, and Loggers Loop

01:11

4.37km

60m

Hiking

The Hard Cider, Purdum, and Loggers Loop offers a delightful journey through the varied landscapes of Little Bennett Regional Park. You'll wander through dense forests, open meadows, and along rolling hills above Little Bennett Creek, experiencing a pleasant mix of natural settings. While the 2.7-mile (4.4 km) loop is rated easy with only 201 feet (61 metres) of elevation gain, some sections can be muddy and rocky, so sturdy shoes are recommended for the roughly 1 hour and 11 minutes it takes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the trailhead for the Hard Cider Trail easily accessible from the Kingsley Parking Area. This shared-use path is open to hikers, bikers, and equestrians, so expect to encounter others enjoying the park. A convenient porta-potty is available at Earl's Campsite, and a charming picnic spot under pine trees provides a great place for a break, making it a well-equipped option for a family-friendly Loggers Loop hike.

This trail is a fantastic way to experience Montgomery County's largest natural area, Little Bennett Regional Park, which spans over 3,700 acres. The park boasts more than 25 miles of natural surface trails and historic sites, offering a rich environment for nature and wildlife observation. The Hard Cider, Purdum, and Loggers Loop provides a perfect introduction to the park's diverse ecosystems and is an excellent choice for those seeking an accessible outdoor adventure.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

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Your route passes through a protected area

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Waypoints

A

Start point

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1

4.32 km

Pleasant picnic spot under pine trees with table.

Highlight • Rest Area

B

4.37 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.78 km

497 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.78 km

489 m

< 100 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

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Highest point (200 m)

Lowest point (140 m)

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Weather

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Today

Wednesday 15 July

35°C

21°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Hard Cider, Purdum, and Loggers Loop?

You can typically access trails that form this loop from the Kingsley Parking Area, which is a common starting point for the Hard Cider Trail. The Purdum Trail can also be started from the Burnt Hill Parking Area.

Is the Hard Cider, Purdum, and Loggers Loop trail dog-friendly?

Yes, trails within Little Bennett Regional Park, including those that make up this loop, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep your dog on a leash and practice courteous trail sharing, as these paths are also used by bikers and equestrians.

What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

Little Bennett Regional Park offers a variety of habitats and seasonal beauty, making this loop enjoyable year-round. Spring brings new growth, summer offers lush greenery, fall showcases vibrant foliage, and winter provides a peaceful, quiet experience. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions after rain or snowmelt.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in Little Bennett Regional Park?

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day hiking on the trails within Little Bennett Regional Park. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Montgomery Parks website for any specific regulations or changes, especially if you plan on activities beyond hiking.

Is the Hard Cider, Purdum, and Loggers Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, this loop is generally considered easy and suitable for beginners and families. It features rolling terrain through forests and meadows, making it a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience. The overall difficulty is rated as easy.

What is the terrain like on this loop?

The loop traverses through dense forests and open meadows, often featuring rolling terrain above Little Bennett Creek. While mostly gentle, you might encounter some sections that can be muddy or rocky, especially after rain. It offers a diverse and engaging natural landscape.

What can I see along the Hard Cider, Purdum, and Loggers Loop?

Along the route, you'll experience beautiful forest scenery and open meadows. There's a notable Pleasant picnic spot under pine trees with table, perfect for a break. The park is also known for its diverse habitats, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.

Does this loop intersect with other trails in Little Bennett Regional Park?

Yes, this route combines sections of several trails within Little Bennett Regional Park. You'll hike along portions of the Loggers Trail, Hard Cider Trail, Kingsley Trail, Purdum Trail, and Pine Knob Trail, offering a varied experience of the park's network.

Are there any facilities like restrooms or water sources along the trail?

While there might not be regular facilities directly on the entire loop, there is a porta-potty available at Earl's Campsite, which is situated roughly halfway between the Loggers Trail and the Hard Cider Trail sections of the park. It's always recommended to carry enough water for your hike.

Is this loop typically crowded?

While Little Bennett Regional Park is popular, longer loops combining trails like Logger, Purdum, Kingsley, and Windy Ridge are noted for not being overly crowded, offering a peaceful hiking experience. This specific loop is generally tranquil, especially outside of peak weekend hours.

What should I wear or bring for hiking this loop?

Given the easy difficulty and varied terrain, comfortable hiking shoes are recommended. Dress in layers suitable for the weather, and consider bringing water, snacks, and insect repellent. If hiking after rain, waterproof footwear might be beneficial due to potentially muddy sections.

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