A Stone’s Throw: Monkton, MD

Previously known as Charlotte Town, Monkton once served as a major component of the North Central Railroad. The railroad ceased to function in the mid 1900’s. The abandoned rail station was renovated and now serves as a museum, gift shop and ranger station for those using the adjacent trail. 

Other original buildings still stand as a testament to what once was, including a school house, a hotel/general store, and a town hall.

There is plenty to do in the quaint town of Monkton.

Bike riding and tubing:  The Torrey C. Brown Trail (formerly the NCR Trail) is a little over 20 miles of flat, stone and dirt-covered pathway, easily navigable by bicycle or by foot. This primarily shaded trail runs from Ashland, Md. to the Maryland–Pennsylvania line. Monkton is a mid-point on the trail and offers a respite for travelers.

You can also tube or kayak down the Gunpowder River, which runs parallel to the trail. Monkton Bikes rents bikes, kayaks, and tubes. A “tube shuttle” is available for transportation to the starting point for your excursion, and then you lazily float back to Monkton.

Ladew Gardens and Topiary:  If biking or tubing is a bit too physical for you, the Ladew Gardens may be a perfect alternative. Created by self-taught gardener Harvey Ladew, this 22-acre garden features 15 garden rooms of various themes, all made with topiaries. According to the Ladew Garden’s website “the Garden Club of America described Ladew's garden as the most outstanding topiary garden in America."

The grounds also contain a nature walk and a 1.5 mile trail through the woods and fields of the Ladew property. The tours are self-guided.  “Groovin’ in the Grass, a summer concert series, is also held at Ladew. A detailed schedule can be found on their website.

Lost Falls Mini Golf: Located at the Hereford Golf Center, just one mile from Monkton, Lost Falls Mini-Links is a local favorite. The beautifully landscaped course features two ponds, a stream and even a cave. A small shaded area with picnic benches is on the golf center grounds along with a full size practice facility.

Every day trip must include a fabulous meal.  Monkton has many eateries to choose from.

The Natural Brothers Café and Deli: Located just a few steps from the Torrey C. Brown Trail, this café has a completely vegetarian menu of breakfast, sandwiches, and salads. Menu items are available for carry-out or you can dine on the patio overlooking the trail. The building which houses this café was known as the Monkton Hotel in the late 1800’s.

The Painted Pig:  You can stop here for breakfast, lunch, and/or shopping. Locally famous for their pulled pork sandwiches, the Painted Pig is a full service deli as well as a consignment shop. Consignment items include new and used furniture and equestrian related items.

Soup ‘R Natural:  This family run business features fresh and natural foods, made with locally grown vegetables as well as eggs and meats from farms in the area.  Soup ‘R Natural has a "bring your own" wine policy and serves only lunch and dinner.

Over the Moon Café: This cute little café offers outdoor dining and free Wi-Fi. Patrons enjoy breakfast, lunch, coffee and ICE CREAM, the perfect ending to a day of playing hard in Monkton.

Regardless of what you choose to do, a day trip to Monkton will surely offer you the opportunity to reconnect with a group of friends, your family and the great outdoors.