As folks continue to search for ways to explore the great outdoors in a physically distant manner, we’re here to share the good word about a little known trail, close to water (with a WATERFALL) and located just minutes from the Route 1 corridor: The Rachel Carson Greenway Trail in Silver Spring! Where precisely? Located in Burnt Mills West Special Park. Yes, the green area across from Trader Joe’s in Silver Spring. (Now you know exactly where I’m talking about.)
How many times have you passed this sign and not stopped to explore? Now’s the time! Parking lot for the trail – right by the waterfall – is here.
Rachel Carson Greenway Trail
This natural trail (read: not paved, so wear some sturdy shoes) includes a beautiful waterfall, plenty of trees to keep you in the shade and pockets of water here and there for all to wet their feet. Our kids enjoyed playing in the sand and dipping toes into the creek.
Located right off of Columbia Pike / Route 29 in Silver Spring, it’s about a 10-15 minute drive from Hyattsville / College Park area.
Note that parking is located behind the and is relatively limited, i.e. 20 spaces or so.
Lighter crowds during the weekdays makes it easier to do your socially distant part.
Dogs welcome at the Rachel Carson Greenway Trail
The precise address for GPS / navigation purposes is: 10701 Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20901.
Waterfall at Rachel Carson Greenway Trail!
We had a grand time checking out this waterfall right by the parking lot. While we couldn’t go into the water, sitting under the shade of nearby trees and just listening to the surrounding sounds was a delight. Until I was interrupted by some talk about Minecraft. Heaven help me.
Bit More Challenging
Given the natural trails, embedded rocks and a couple of hills here and there, we’d say this trail is probably best for ages 5 and up.
Additional Reading
Who is Rachel Carson?
Ms. Rachel Carson was “an outstanding American writer, environmental activist, and [Montgomery] County resident” according to M-NCPPC excerpt on Rachel Carson Trail here.
Want More Outdoor Recommendations?
Searching for even more ways to explore the outdoors close / close enough to the Route 1 Corridor? We’ve got you covered! Check out our Outdoor Fun recommendations here! Got your own recommendations? Please share in the comments so that the rest of us may gain from your pearls of wisdom!
Enjoy!
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