The best family-friendly hikes and walks in St. Mary's County

This guide features several family-friendly hiking trails in St. Mary's County, offering a range of experiences suitable for different ages and abilities. You'll find a mix of easy and moderate routes to explore.

St. Mary's County offers diverse scenery, from tranquil waterfront views along the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay to peaceful wooded areas and state parks. Many trails feature a mix of these landscapes, providing engaging environments for families.

Yes, for an easy and relatively short loop, consider the Myrtle Point Park loop from Spencers Wharf. This trail offers pleasant waterfront views along the Patuxent River and meanders through wooded sections, making it a great option for a relaxed family outing.

Many trails offer access to interesting sights. For example, the area around Point Lookout State Park Loop features the historic Point Lookout Lighthouse and sandy beaches. If you're near St. Mary's River State Park, you can enjoy views of St. Mary's Lake.

For families seeking a longer, moderate adventure, the St. Mary's Lake Loop offers a substantial hike around the 250-acre lake within St. Mary's River State Park. Another moderate option is the Calvert Cliffs Red and Orange Loop Trail, which provides a good workout with varied terrain.

The family-friendly trails in St. Mary's County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful natural settings, well-maintained paths, and the variety of landscapes, from waterfront to woodlands, that make these routes enjoyable for all ages.

Many state parks in St. Mary's County, such as Point Lookout State Park and Greenwell State Park, are well-equipped with amenities suitable for families. These often include restrooms, picnic areas, and sometimes even playgrounds, making them ideal starting points for a family hike. It's always a good idea to check the specific park's website for current facility information.

Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant seasons for family hiking in St. Mary's County. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery is particularly beautiful, with blooming wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm and humid, so early mornings or late afternoons are best if hiking during that time.

Absolutely! St. Mary's County is an 'outdoors mecca' with many opportunities to combine hiking with other activities. Parks like Greenwell State Park offer horseback riding, while Point Lookout State Park provides access to sandy beaches and fishing piers. Many waterfront trails are also great for birdwatching or simply enjoying the bay views.

For additional information on parks, trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities across the county, you can consult resources provided by the local government. For example, the St. Mary's County government offers a guide to getting out and walking, which can be found at stmaryscountymd.gov.