Have run this route both ways. It's easier top to bottom but that doesn't get you the required elevation gain. Parked in the free public parking lot just past the Trolley Stop lot. Hydrated prior to the run. Did not bring water with me for the run.
Passed a guy early in my run on the Trolley Trail who I thought I left in the dust only to have him re-pass me on the Edmondson Ave stretch as he was in the final stretch of his morning run. I sped up to run with him for his final stretch and had a nice chat which took my mind off the hill we were running.
Once I finished the run I cooled down with a walk back to my house, which was closer to the end of the trail than the start, and had my wife drive me back to my car. I could have ubered back but appreciated the cool down as I basked in my victory of having finally run the route the harder way, uphill.
My pace wasn't great, but at under 11 min per mile, not bad for a 60-year old. Don't expect the record to stand long, but it was a bucket list thing to run and submit the route. It really is a great way to explore historic Ellicott City and Catonsville, small town America at its best. Hang out after in one of the two towns to enjoy a meal or beverage. It will make for a great day! Pura vida!