Ride Steam Locomotive In Western MD + Visit Iron Festival In Mountains

MARYLAND — Spring has sprung, so it's a beautiful time to explore the great outdoors.

One way to get in touch with nature is by visiting the mountains of Western Maryland. Residents can take steam locomotive rides on a retro railroad. They can also explore iron and plant festivals. For something closer, check out a guided beaver walk on the Eastern Shore.

Patch recently partnered with several local organizations to bring you their latest news. This guest contribution comes from National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways and Chesapeake Conservancy. Here's what Jody Hedeman Couser submitted to help you explore the Chesapeake Bay:

"Summer Steam Season

Built in 1949, the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway steam locomotive No. 1309 was built to handle the railroad’s heaviest coal trains throughout Kentucky and West Virginia. No. 1309 has been meticulously restored back in service by the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, who is offering summer steam rides (in addition to the usual diesel rides) that include the Moonlight on the Mountain (available once a month on Friday) and Frostburg Flyer, typically available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday weekly. Train schedule and tickets."

"Maryland Iron Festival

With the discovery of rich hematite ore deposits in the hills of the Monocacy River Valley in the mid-18th century, industrialization rapidly swept into the valley. From 1776 to 1903, iron companies mined the rich ore banks near Catoctin Mountain, smelted it in furnaces, and cast both raw pig iron and iron implements of many sorts. The Iron Festival celebrates this history with blacksmithing and casting demonstrations, live iron pours, log hewing, live music, guided hikes and an artist and maker market. There will be children’s activities, a bake sale, “Feats of Strength” Challenges, food and beverages and more! May 21-22, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Catoctin Mountain Park, MD. Complete weekend schedule."

"Mountain Maryland Native Plant Festival

Looking for an excuse for a spring visit to the mountains? Discover the connection between native plants, people and wildlife at this free event at New Germany State Park. There will be many native plant and artisan vendors and conservation groups, including Garrett Trails, Maryland Conservation Corps, Trout Unlimited, Maryland Native Plant Society and University of MD Extension - Garrett County Master Gardeners. May 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information."

"Beavers and Tuckahoe Soup 'n Walk

Observe the beautiful Tuckahoe Creek view while scouting for signs of beavers. We’ll be searching for plants of interest like mountain laurel, beech, tulip tree, pink lady's slipper, Solomon's seal, and may apple. Following the guided walk with a docent naturalist, enjoy a delicious and nutritious lunch along with a brief lesson about nutrition. $30 for nonmembers. May 21, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; Adkins Arboretum, Ridgely, MD. More information and registration."

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