Autumn may be my favorite time of year to get outside in Southern Maryland.

If you’re looking for a great way to enjoy this beautiful weather and scenery, there are many trails to explore. Whether you’re planning a peaceful morning walk or strenuous mountain-biking excursion, there’s a trail for you. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly activity, plenty of the trails in the area also allow leashed dogs. Here are some of the most beautiful trails I’d suggest exploring this fall:

Parkers Creek Loop – American Chestnut Land Trust

This first one is a moderate forest trail perfect for a couple of leisurely hours in nature. It’s located in the Parkers Creek Natural Area within the larger American Chestnut Land Trust, near Prince Frederick in Calvert County. On this 3.4-mile loop trail, keep an eye out for wildlife near the marsh and wetland woods, including many species of nesting birds. Dogs are permitted on-leash, making this a prime spot for both of you to get some fresh air and exercise.

St. Mary’s Lake Loop Trail

This next trail is a bit longer and makes for a great day excursion. At 7.5 miles, you can expect to spend at least a few hours here, so you’ll want to pack food and water accordingly. This loop trail wraps around St. Mary’s Lake near Lexington Park, with some hills thrown in to get your heart rate up. Much of the trail is in the shade of the trees, with great views of the lake in autumn when the leaves have begun to fall. This is another quiet trail, with not too much traffic, though you may see an occasional mountain biker. Dogs are welcome, and there’s plenty of parking at the trailhead.

Wheatley Lake – Gilbert Run Park

For a more relaxed walk, try the Wheatley Lake nature trail at Gilbert Run Park. It’s located near Hughesville, and it’s a good choice for varying levels. You can pick up a pamphlet at the park office and take a 2.5-mile self-guided nature walk around the edge of Wheatley Lake. This wooded trail is a great place to enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage. They’re dog-friendly and kid-friendly, with a playground within the park.

Red Trail – Calvert Cliffs State Park

Located in Calvert Cliffs State Park, this trail is likely the most popular and well-trafficked on the list. The major attraction of this forest hike is its remote sandy beach where you’ll get some great views of the cliffs and the Chesapeake Bay and even have the opportunity to hunt for ten-million-year-old fossils from the Miocene epoch. The well-marked Red Trail leads you to this beach area and runs through a deciduous forest and a small brook with several bridges and boardwalks to keep you dry. There are also observation spots along the way to scope out wildlife like beavers and geese. You can choose to take the Red trail as an out-and-back route at 3.8 miles, or switch it up and take the service road back. For a longer hike, connect the Red Trail to the Orange Loop Trail for a 4.5-mile hike. There are plenty of interconnected trails here to create your own adventure. They’re dog-friendly and kid-friendly also, with a playground close to the trailhead. Note that there is a $5 fee to visit this park.

 

Southern Maryland is stunning in the fall. The natural scenery, gorgeous colors of the changing leaves, and peaceful quiet of the woods makes it one of the best times of years to hit the trails. With so many great options, it’s easy to find one that fits your ability and interests. Explore one of these trails for yourself, and soak up some of that fresh fall air. Do you have a favorite trail in Southern Maryland? Drop me a line in the comments or share your favorite photo with us!