I'm particularly fond of a loop trail that can be accessed on the east side of York Rd. by the river. Take the Panther Branch Trail (blue blazes) which turns right from the trailhead and goes up into the woods. The trail takes a few jogs, so pay attention to the trail blazes. The trail eventually follows a small run and then parallels Panther Branch. The trail, and Panther Branch join up with Gunpowder Falls. At the trail junction with South Gunpowder Falls trail, turn left, and follow the trail upstream. The trail parallels the river with occasional jogs into the upper woodlands. Be careful that you don't accidentally end up on one of the many fishing access trails that follow the river. South Gunpowder trail ends at the starting place of the hike. The hike is ~4 miles.

A shortcut can be taken from the Panther Branch to the South Gunpowder trail by taking the Sandy Run (pink blazes) trail down to the river.