Hikes at the Worthington Farm

The Ford Loop, Highwater, and Brooks Hill Loop trails at the Worthington Farm offer a chance to immerse yourself in the woods without being too far from civilization. The Ford Loop Trail is 1.6 miles long and a easy/moderate hike. The trail borders an active pasture before entering woods and dipping down to the Monocacy River. The trail is named for the Worthington Ford that was used by Confederate troops to cross the Monocacy River. The exact location of the ford is unknown but is believed to be near Ballenger Creek. The Highwater Trail connects to the Ford Loop Trail and is an excellent option when the Monocacy River is high. This trail does not follow the river bank like the Ford Loop trail, but instead stays in the woods. The Brooks Hill Loop is 1.9 miles long is the most difficult hike at Monocacy National Battlefield. The trail leads from near the Worthington House to the top of Brooks Hill. Scenic vistas of the Monocacy Valley reward the effort. During the final phase of the Battle of Monocacy, Confederate General John B. Gordon led his troops over the top of Brooks Hill to surprise Union forces on the Thomas Farm below.