Discover Forest Hill

Forest Hill brings together a theme of church architecture, the former Ma & Pa Railroad, and trails at Blake's Venture Park. As you plan your trip, you can decide whether you are especially interested in architectural history, the railroad's past, or a stretch of trail along the creek.

Churches, architecture, and railroad history

The Christ Protestant Episcopal Church, also known as Rock Spring Church, is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion C as an outstanding example of the Gothic Revival style because of its architecture. St. Ignatius Church was built between 1786 and 1792 and is one of the few known 18th-century churches in Maryland. The Fairview AME Church was built later, next to the school in 1911.

The former Ma & Pa Railroad is notable for its clearly defined operating period: it was in service from 1901 to 1958. Its 77-mile line connected Baltimore with York, Pennsylvania. The Vineyard offers a different building context: a group of buildings on a hill lies at the center of a 310-acre working grain and livestock farm.

Trails and railroad-themed attractions

Phase II of the Ma & Pa Trail begins at Blake's Venture in Forest Hill. The Ma & Pa Heritage Trail at Blake's Venture Park provides easy access to the trail there; one section gradually descends toward the creek. Trail conditions can change, so check them before your visit.

Another attraction connected to railroad history is the railroad-themed playground at Friends Park. It is designed for children ages 5 to 12. Playground conditions can also change; a quick check before your visit can help with planning.

Vineyards and production

Harford Vineyard and Winery is a family-owned and family-operated winery and distillery founded in 2003. It produces wines and spirits. If you are planning a visit, check current visiting options in advance.

Harford as a broader destination

The broader destination of Harford adds more landscape and history themes. Susquehanna State Park lies in the Susquehanna River valley and is characterized by dense forest cover and rocky terrain. The Rock Run Historic Area includes a working grist mill; the restored site also includes the Carter-Archer Mansion and the Jersey Toll House.

Coastal and river history is also represented: Concord Point Lighthouse was built in 1827 and is the second-oldest lighthouse in Maryland. From there, views extend to the mouth of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay. Historic Jerusalem Mill Village is a nearly intact mill village dating to the 1770s; its buildings are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The village offers demonstrations of colonial-era cooking. Dates may vary, so check the current event calendar in advance.

For outdoor activities, Rocks State Park covers 855 acres of rocky woodland and has 3.5 miles of hiking trails. Tubing is possible on Deer Creek in the park. The main attractions include Kilgore Falls; the waterfall is considered to have the second-highest vertical drop in Maryland. At King and Queen Seat, climbing routes range from 8 to 115 feet in length and are suitable for grades from 4 to 5.12. Beginners are advised to get professional training before climbing.

Eden Mill Park Nature Center & Historic Grist Mill includes a nature center in a restored grist mill and offers five miles of trails. Canoeing is possible there; water conditions may vary. Harford therefore offers hiking trails and water activities as distinct options alongside historic sites.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Abingdon, Whiteford, Monkton, Aberdeen, Belcamp, Bel Air, Havre De Grace, Pylesville

For the broader travel overview: Harford.