Southern Maryland: Tidewater Potomac Heritage Bicycle Route
This 5-day bicycle tour starts at Fort Washington Park at the Prince George’s County Potomac Heritage On-Road Bicycle Route as a segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.238 miles, averaging 41 miles a day for the first four days, with options for short-cuts on each day. 52 miles back to La Plata on the last day, with another 20 miles back to Fort Washington National Park.
Day 1
42 miles – Fort Washington Park to Bel Alton
The tour begins Fort Washington Park. Fort Washington is the only permanent fortification built to defend the river approach to the Nation’s Capital. Follow the route south to Smallwood State Park, and then cut across through Pisgah to Port Tobacco where you can explore and eat lunch. Chapel Point Road will take you past St. Ignatius Church to the Motel Bel Alton. After you check-in, you can bike or drive 5 miles to Pope’s Creek for a seafood dinner on the Potomac.
Day 2
28 miles – Bel Alton to Charlotte Hall
Head back down to Pope’s Creek, across Rt. 301 and up through Amish country to Charlotte Hall, where you can have lunch at Bert’s 50 Diner. After lunch riders can visit the nearby farmers’ markets and/or bike a 13-mile loop to the lake and park Gilbert Run. Here you can enjoy fishing, pedal boating, row boating and canoeing from March to November. Several good restaurants are within walking distance of the Charlotte Hall Motel for dinner.
Day 3
42 miles – Charlotte Hall to Leonardtown
The route passes many Amish farms as you dip down to Chaptico, Bushwood, and Avenue, along St. Clements Bay. Grab lunch along the bay and then cycle back up and around to Leonardtown. You can paddle here, as well as enjoy the Leonardtown Winery, Wharf and Water Trail. You have a wide choice of places for dinner, including the Café des Artistes, and you can stay at the Relax Inn for the evening.
Day 4
45 miles – Leonardtown to Wynne
Out of Leonardtown, follow backcountry roads down to Valley Lee, up to Great Mills, and then Route 5 to St. Mary’s City. This quaint, historic town along the river is a perfect place to grab a bite to eat. Then continue down Route 5 toward Point Lookout to the 1828 Lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula, with the Potomac River on one side and the Chesapeake Bay on the other. There is also a nature center in Point Lookout State Park and a Civil War Museum to explore (there may be a $3 per person entry fee). Retrace the route back a few miles to Wynne where you can watch the sun set over the Potomac. Courtney’s has been recommended as a great seafood restaurant, and you can stay at the Scheibles Restaurant and Motel for the night.
Day 5
52 miles – Wynne to La Plata, the 20 miles – La Plata to Fort Washington
This is a long day, so you may want to get an early start as you head back to La Plata. Once you get back to La Plata, you will need to go the 20 extra miles to get back to Fort Washington, if that’s where you left your car.
For information on the map of the Tidewater Potomac Heritage Bicycle Route produced by the Adventure Cycling Association with assistance of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Office, National Park Service, visit http://www.adventurecycling.org/routes/tidewater.cfm.
The Ira Gabrielson Trail Hike
Situated along the headlands of the Potomac River Gorge, the Gabrielson Trail links over 1,500 acres of Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) lands along the Potomac River. Retrace ancient paths through pristine natural areas on foot or horseback. The Gabrielson Trail is a 12-mile long segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and links to other nearby trails, parks and attractions. Begin your journey at Algonkian Regional Park near Sterling, where you’ll find ample parking in a lush, green, shaded environment–a perfect place to begin your hike.
Featuring a waterpark, a golf course and club house, vast picnic areas and a boat launch, 850-acre Algonkian Regional Park is bordered on one side by the Potomac River and open year round. The official start to the Ira Gabrielson Trail can be found near the middle of the park itself, just beyond the open picnic shelter area before the park’s Riverfront Cottages. Hiking here is mostly flat on a blazed and well-used footpath. Your pace will likely be brisk considering the conditions. Continue east through and out of the park on to the Lowe’s Island segment of the trail for about a mile. Lowe’s Island is a private golf course and housing development, and some distance the River along Old Sugarland Run. The Seneca Tract Once you pass through Lowe’s Island, you will be on the Seneca Tract, another part of the NVRPA system. The trail takes a few twists and turns here but stays largely near the water, especially along the Seneca Breaks–one the of the famous five falls of the Potomac River. Visible are remnants of the Pawtomack Canal and Metagraywacke rock formations common to the area. Over time, the rocks were worn down by the flow of water, though resistant rock outcroppings, ledges and boulders remain prominent above the waterline and throughout along this section of trail. Considerably rockier and somewhat narrower than at Algonkian, hikers should use considerable caution here; in addition, it’s not unusual for the area to be muddy after wet weather. After 1.5 miles the trail moves to the left and just along the river to the banks of Nichols Run.
Nichols Run
Protected by undisturbed forest, Nichols Run remains one of the most pristine watersheds in Fairfax County today. Along with Jefferson Branch, this outstanding wetland complex is home to several rare plant and animal species, including purple fringeless orchids and wood turtles. The trail here runs for a half mile or so entirely along the water’s edge through exceptional scenery.
Upper Potomac Parklands
Another NVRPA property, the Upper Potomac Parklands is a series of parcels that run along the Potomac East of Nichols Run. The trail here is approximately three miles along the water’s edge. Primary sites during this leg of the trip include an excellent view of some of the more significant islands of the Potomac. These are formed by water cutting into stone upstream as far northwest as Harper’s Ferry, and carrying the resulting stone and silt downstream, where it’s deposited here forming soft gravel islands. These island ecosystems support many globally rare natural communities. Also along this portion of the trail, hikers may spot several examples of the area’s native birds of prey – hawks, falcons, owls and bald eagles – that hunt the area for small birds, mammals and fish. This final leg brings hikers into Riverbend Park, and the end of the Ira Gabrielson Trail. Restrooms and parking are available on the up- and downstream ends of this hike, at both Algonkian Regional Park and Riverbend Park, and the latter includes a visitor center with exhibits that portray the history and natural features of the area. For more information on parks in this area, please visit the NVRPA web site.
Tidal Occoquan to Pohick Bay Paddle Tour
This trip begins with a launch at Occoquan Regional Park, located near Lorton across from the Town of Occoquan, and continues downstream on the Occoquan River, around Mason Neck Peninsula in the Potomac River, before ending at Pohick Bay Regional Park. The entire route is roughly 16 miles, and because the trip includes open tidal water, the tour is best for paddlers with at least a moderate level of experience. The distance from Occoquan Regional Park to Mason Neck State Park (and another take out) is 5 river miles. In addition to a public boat launch area, Occoquan Regional Park includes restrooms, a seasonal snack bar, kayak and canoe rentals, playfields, interpretive exhibits and picnic tables, and serves as an anchor for the Fairfax Cross County Trail, the Laurel Hill Greenway, and the PHT.
En route to Mason Neck State Park, Conrad Island is one of the first features you’ll notice upon entering Belmont Bay. The island recently was created from dredged soils and is a favorite fishing spot for many birds, including cormorants, osprey and eagles. Kane’s Creek is a tidal inlet to the State Park, with the creek providing a view of a marsh ecosystem supporting resident and migrating waterfowl and raptors. The park offers outstanding bird watching, fishing and beachcombing, as well as hiking trails through marshes and forests and year-round launch access.
The river trip from Mason Neck State Park around Shady Point, High Point, Sycamore Point, and Hallowing Point is 11 miles. Adjacent to the Park, Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge is home to an active heron rookery and provides critical habitat for wildlife. Visible on your left, you are likely to bald eagles, osprey, blue heron, turkey vultures, butterflies, geese and seagulls. This Refuge also includes the Great Marsh – also visible from the water – a 285-acre freshwater marsh and the largest in northern Virginia. Please note that boating access is prohibited on the islands, as well as within the wildlife refuge. End your water trail journey at Pohick Bay Regional Park, which includes a year-round boat launch; rental kayaks, pedal boats, sailboats and canoes; a waterpark; a playground; a golf course; and tent camping, RV camping, and basic cabins.
To continue exploring on land, take advantage of the hiking and equestrian trails in the park and at Meadowood, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, and visit nearby Gunston Hall, George Mason’s former home. For more information on activities and accommodations, visit the NVRPA web site or the Fairfax Tourism site.
A Secluded and Scenic Excursion on the Potomac
The Middle Potomac River is one of the most beautiful stretches of navigable waterways in the Mid-Atlantic. (more…)
McIntosh Run Trail: Port of Leonardtown Park to Abell’s Wharf
This trail features four access points and provides paddlers with the opportunity to explore the quiet marshes of Leonardtown or the open waters of Breton Bay.
Distance: Following along the shoreline, it is approximately 2.4 miles from the Port of Leonardtown Park to Leonardtown Wharf Public Park; 0.6 miles from Leonardtown Wharf Public Park to Camp Calvert; and 3 miles from Camp Calvert to Abell’s Wharf. More experienced paddlers may paddle the full distance of approximately 6 miles.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate along McIntosh Run, but can be difficult in wider waters along lower Breton Bay depending on wind and weather conditions.
The upper section of this route is ideal for novice paddlers. Begin at the Port of Leonardtown Park on McIntosh Run, which features a passive park and the newly opened Port of Leonardtown Winery. Head south along McIntosh Run for approximately 2 miles. The trail here meanders through a sheltering canopy of trees which is home to Bald Eagles, Baltimore Orioles, wild turkeys and other bird species. The trail opens up at Breton Bay and large marsh areas will be visible to the right along with a few large waterfront homes. Continue paddling for approximately another half mile. More marshes and duck blinds hidden among the cattails can be seen to the right. The Leonardtown Wharf Public Park will be on the left side.
More experienced paddlers may take a more challenging route by continuing to Camp Calvert Landing and the larger waters of Breton Bay to Abell’s Wharf.
Port of Leonardtown Park
GPS: 38 18′ 14.31″ N 76 39′ 23.72″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: Commissioners of Leonardtown, (301) 475-9791
Amenities: Handicap accessible, soft launch for canoes and kayaks only. Kayak/canoe rentals are available.
Directions: Drive south on Route 5 toward Leonardtown. Turn right at Newtowne Neck Road / Route 243. Turn left at the Port of Leonardtown Winery sign (approximately 0.16 miles) and drive to the end of the road.
Address: 23190 Newtowne Neck Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Leonardtown Wharf Public Park
GPS: 38 17′ 09.62″ N 76 38′ 17.37″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: Commissioners of Leonardtown, (301) 475-9791
Amenities: Public restrooms, seasonal concession stand and close proximity to restaurants. This site is suitable for canoe and kayak launching only and features a stepdown, floating launch platform. Parking is very limited.
Directions: Drive South on Route 5 toward Leonardtown. Turn right onto Washington Street and drive to the end.
Address: 22500 Washington Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Camp Calvert Landing
GPS: 38 17′ 03.63″N 76 37′ 44.41″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks
Amenities: This landing is for canoe and kayak access only. Very small parking lot accommodates no more than two vehicles. Parking is minimal so drive to the landing to dropoff kayaks and canoes and park elsewhere. Be cautious of power boats and jet ski traffic when using this landing.
Directions: Drive south on Route 5 toward Leonardtown. Turn right onto Fenwick Street and make a left onto Camp Calvert Road. Drive to the end of Camp Calvert Road.
Address: 22530 Camp Calvert Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Abell’s Wharf
GPS: 38 15′ 38.46″ N 76 38′ 42.51″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks
Amenities: Boat ramp and pier, parking lot (for 20 cars) and seasonal portable toilet.
Directions: Follow Route 5 south to Route 244 west to Breton Beach Road. Then turn right onto Abell’s Wharf Road.
Address: 21620 Abell’s Wharf Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Herring Creek Loop Trail: Tall Timbers Landing and Herring Creek
A wide variety of wildlife and beautiful vistas of Herring Creek and the Potomac River can be seen along this trail. Trail conditions and distances will vary depending on which route, creek or coves are explored. Be aware of powerboat traffic at marina openings and small channel crossings.
Distance: Approximately 1 – 10 miles depending on route taken
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Experienced paddlers may continue onto the open waters of the Potomac River.
This trail features approximately 10 miles of shoreline with many finger creeks and tiny coves. Launch at Tall Timbers landing and head to the right. Paddle into the large channel heading toward Route 249 (cars will be visible in the distance). Look into the trees and along the shoreline of this remote section of Herring Creek for nesting herons. Paddle back into the calm waters of the inlets behind Piney Point Elementary School. Turtles, herons and other wildlife are abundant in this area. Follow the shoreline to exit this branch of the creek and head up the creek along the shores and farmlands on the right. There is a marina at the head of the creek. Be cautious – there could be a bit of boat traffic entering and exiting the marina. Continue along the miles of shoreline to the other finger creeks and inlets along the north side of Herring Creek. Paddle through the last finger creek and follow the shoreline to the very open side of Herring Creek. Enjoy the expansive beauty of Herring Creek and the jetties to the Potomac.
Tall Timbers Landing
GPS: 38 10′ 37.90″ N 76 32′ 49.26″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks
Amenities: Put in is easy at the sandy spot next to pier.
Directions: Drive south on Route 5 past Leonardtown and turn right onto Piney Point Road / Route 249. Turn right onto Tall Timbers Road then turn right onto Herring Creek Road and drive to the end.
Address: 18521 Herring Creek Road, Tall Timbers, MD 20690
Upper St. Mary’s River Trail: Great Mills Launch to St. Mary’s City
This trail allows paddlers to experience the sheltered beauty of the headwaters of the St. Mary’s River or the more open waters downriver at St. Mary’s City. (more…)
Piney Point Creek Trail: Piney Pt. Lighthouse Museum and Park Loop Trail
The Piney Point Lighthouse, Museum and Historic Park kayak launch is situated in a small protected lagoon that opens into the larger area of Piney Point Creek. (more…)
St. Inigoes Trails
The St. Inigoes Paddling Trails in Southern Maryland include St. Inigoes Landing, Smith Creek, Jutland Creek and Kitts Point Loop Trails. (more…)
A Visit to Indian Head, MD and Mattawoman Creek
Located just 18 miles south from the Nation’s capital, the Indian Head Rail Trail is a 13-mile multi-use path in Charles County, Maryland. (more…)
Wicomico River Trail: Wicomico Shores Landing to Bushwod Wharf
This trail gives paddlers the opportunity to explore the coves and creeks around Budd’s Creek, Chaptico and Bushwood. (more…)
Explore Port Tobacco on the River
Can’t decide if you prefer a walk, a bicycle ride or an excursion on the water? An exploration around the Port Tobacco Historic District provides opportunities for all three. (more…)
From Riverbend to Great Falls
This 2.5-mile roundtrip hike features sections of the Potomac Heritage Trail in Riverbend Park and adjacent Great Falls Park and brings you up close to a scenic portion of the Potomac River. Riverbend Park, a Fairfax County park, is a popular place for fishing, kayaking, and hiking with over 10 miles of trails. Trails vary in difficulty, and some are available for horseback riding and mountain biking. (more…)See Mount Vernon From Piscataway Park
Explore Mt. Vernon’s Viewshed Year Round by Land or by Water at Piscataway Park
Depending on which direction you are traveling, Piscataway Park sits at the beginning or the end of the Southern Maryland segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. Piscataway, is, however, much more than a landmark. It is an experience unto itself, one that can be enjoyed by land or by water.