Hike the South Tract Trails at Patuxent Research Refuge

Laurel, Maryland

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Details

Distance

5 miles

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Ashley Stimpson

Beech trees, boardwalks, and bird blinds are the highlights of the South Tract's 5 miles of interconnected trails.

From the visitors center, start on the Fire Road trail. From there, it's a choose-your-own adventure (choose-your-own ecosystem, actually). Pick the Laurel and Valley Trails to stay in the quiet (and maybe enchanted? It felt enchanted) forest. Goose Pond trail is a short jut to a--yup--pond, where herons pose for instagram-worthy shots. Cash Lake loop is the star of the show. Nesting boxes and bird blinds surround the lake, and fisherman dreaming of largemouths line the pier. Floating trails lead you through expansive fields of lily-pads. Plan on animal encounters, bird sightings, and a deep feeling of gratitude to Franklin Roosevelt for setting this one aside.

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Features

Fishing

Photography

Running

Hiking

Bathrooms

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Forest

Groups

River

Scenic

Wildflowers

Wildlife

ADA Accessible

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Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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