Are you feeling cooped up and in need of some fresh air? Why not go for a walk? Take a break from the monotony and clear your mind by getting back to nature for a bit. Walking is a great form of exercise that can be done by one and all at your own speed and own pace. Here are some of the great walking trails Southern Maryland has to offer.

Chaptico Park

Chaptico Park offers up a variety of paved walkways and green belts that are great for walking. In addition, they also have a cross country trail that is approximately one mile with a portion of the trail being a bit more challenging. The park also offers restrooms, playgrounds, picnic areas, and multiple fields for playing soccer or other sports.

College of Southern Maryland Trail

Located on the Leonardtown college campus, the College of Southern Maryland Trail is a wide mulched trail less than a half mile long. Your walk will take you through a forested area, up and down some picturesque hills with views of the old oak trees, and crossing over a creek formed from the Town Run Stream. Pets are welcome but must be on a leash.

Elms Beach Park

Are you feeling the need to be close to the water? Elms Beach Park allows you to walk along the shoreline on their level beach. Access to the shoreline does require you to walk across an unpaved grassy area that has a slope, so be aware for those that only prefer walking on pavement. The park also offers an area for fishing and crabbing, picnic tables and restrooms.

Greenwell State Park

If you’re looking for a variety of natural trails, Greenwell State Park is the place to go. With ten hiking trails ranging from 0.45 miles to 1.75 miles in length, you are sure to find the walk that is right for you. All trails are over natural terrain and range from easy to difficult. The walking trails are shared by bikers and horses.

Myrtle Point Park

Myrtle Point Park offers five walking trails that vary from dirt to sand to grass. The trails range from 0.5 miles to 2.7 miles through wooded areas, open fields, and shoreline. The park offers picnic and grilling areas as well as access to the shoreline for kayaking or canoeing. The park is typically calm and quiet, which also offers the opportunity for great bird watching.

St. Mary’s River State Park

If you’re looking for a good workout, St. Mary’s River State Park has a 7.5 mile multi-use trail that meanders around the lake. The trail is shared by hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Pets are allowed in the park but should be leashed. The park also offers fishing areas, picnic areas, a playground, and a boat launch.

 

Walking is a great form of exercise but also helps to clear the mind and rejuvenate your energy.  Southern Maryland has so many walking trails to offer – let us know your favorite.

 

Make sure to contact your local parks to check hours of operation.