Cycling Gambrill Park Road
Ride 3.7 miles gaining 1,272’ at 6% average grade (7.2% climb only).
Climb summary by PJAMM ambassador Dan Razum, Campbell, CA (note, we have extended the climb 2 miles since Dan rode it and the climb now begins on Shookstown Road - otherwise, Dan’s summary is accurate).
The climb starts on Gambrill Park Rd, at the entrance to Rock Run Recreation Area. We climb up to the Overlook at the top of the hill which isn't too far but it is a fairly stout climb. When we climbed we first rode Gambrill Park Rd down to Route 40 and back, which is fairly flat, for a warm up of about a mile.
Start of climb.
The road is 2 lane and in good condition. There is no shoulder but traffic was courteous. There is a little more traffic on this road than on some other roads nearby, but still not a lot so we felt safe.
We start climbing right away around 10% gradient. We enter the woods, so there is shade for much of the way. Part way up we pass a parking area for the trail system. As we near the top of the hill the road makes a sharp right turn but we turn left, past the visitor center and into the park area. There is an entrance fee for cars, $3 for local cars and $5 for out of state cars, but the sign doesn't mention cyclists so presumably no charge for bicycles.
There are two overlooks at the top, one towards Middletown and one towards Frederick. The Middletown Overlook has nice views but there isn't much of a view at the Frederick Overlook, the trees and vegetation are too tall in the summertime.
View from Middletown Overlook.
Thank you Dan!!