Middle Patuxent Environmental Area

"It's a great place for an uncrowded, easy, and relatively short hike. As you can see, it's fairly kid-friendly too. We did have to stop for snacks a few times though ;)"

"A favorite trail of mine. Speaking objectively. It's a great series of trails down to the river. Benches but not too many views. Easy hiking, but I rated it moderate since some trails wind and can be disorienting & it is not paved."

"I had the most amazing time at the nature preserve with its wonderful trails. The meadows were a sight to behold, full of bees and butterflies, creating a mesmerizing and magical atmosphere. The trails, especially the ones that followed the Patuxent River, provided a serene and immersive experience in nature. One aspect that truly impressed me was the inclusion of educational panels along the trails. They were informative and added depth to the overall experience. The most recent set were dedicated to teaching hear health. The combination of natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and educational opportunities made this nature preserve an ideal destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and enriching outdoor adventure. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a refreshing escape, I highly recommend exploring these captivating trails."

"Really enjoyed this trail overall. I really liked how closely this trail followed the river. I was able to get some really nice shots during my breaks. Due to the rain, certain parts of the trail was kinda slippery from the mud. The only other note worth mentioning is although the trail is paved, parts of the grassy areas appear to be paved by a lawn mower that hadn't mowed in a while. Certain grassy areas were a bit challenging to walk through but not impossible."

"Great place to hike. The trails are not hard, I see several families with young kids. The trails near the parking lot are well maintained, you can make different loops around. The South Wind trail could be muddy in the segment along the creek during wet seasons."