Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park Sandy Spring MD United States
The Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park is a popular place for hikers, bikers and equestrian riders. The park is home to both a hard surface trail and natural surface trails.
The trail is a part of the Anacostia Tributary Trail System and runs through a series of parks in the Montgomery County and Prince George’s County suburbs northeast of Washington, D.C. It is paved for 7 miles through Prince George’s County and soft-surfaced for most of its length in Montgomery County. Get More Info.
Stream Valley Park
Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park is a spacious natural area with diverse wildlife views, river trout fishing and various hiking trails. It is a gem of a destination for residents of the surrounding communities of Norwood, Bel Pre Manor, Colesville, Layhill, Glenmont, Wheaton and White Oak.
The sylvan setting is augmented by a trail system that traverses the aforementioned stream valley and connects with an Anacostia Tributary Trail System in Prince George’s County. The 8-mile long paved snazzy sexy natural surface trail (natural surface trail) has been designed to be enjoyed by hikers, bikers and equestrians alike.
The most intriguing part of the trail is its cleverly crafted stacked loops. The best way to experience it is to take a leisurely stroll or trot along its many trail stretches and take in the scenery while you’re at it. Of course, be sure to take the time to check out other local perks of the city such as a visit to the Maryland Science Center, Silver Spring zoo or a brew at one of the many microbreweries within walking distance.
Rachel Carson Greenway Trail
The Rachel Carson Greenway Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a river located near Brookeville, Maryland. Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.
The park is named in honor of American environmentalist and author Rachel Carson, who lived in Brookeville and wrote Silent Spring, The Sense of Wonder, and other books on environmental preservation. Her work was influential in shaping policies regarding the environment and she fought to ban DDT and other chemical pesticides.
One of the many parks in Montgomery County named after her, this 650-acre natural area has more than six miles of trails for hiking and equestrian use. These are “Shared By All” trails, meaning hikers, bikers, and equestrians can all enjoy them.
The Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park is protected as parkland by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, and is a part of an approved plan to create a 50-mile contiguous trail system in Montgomery County called the Rachel Carson Greenway. The Greenway will eventually connect the Anacostia Tributary Trail System in Prince George’s County, the Underground Railway Trail (see our trail tale here) and the Northwest Branch Trail in Silver Spring. Click Here.
Copperhead Run Trail
The Copperhead Run Trail is a relatively new addition to the Northwest Branch Trail. This snaky, singletrack course follows a hillside overlooking the creek and is ideal for mountain bikers.
The 3.5-mile trail was dug into the steep hillsides by Montgomery Parks in 2019, and is designed to be fast and punchy with enough bermed turns, technical features, and stream crossings to keep you entertained. The trail has a few perch points to admire the scenery, too.
The trail was aptly named for its obvious function – it’s the best route to take for a scenic, albeit short, ride through the luscious trees of Stream Valley Park. The trail can be enjoyed by hikers, runners, and cyclists alike. Located near Columbia Pike in Silver Spring, the Northwest Branch Trail is a fun escape from the city if you’re looking for a change of pace and a little adventure. You may even spot a few birds along the way!
The North Branch Trail
Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park Sandy Spring MD United States
The North Branch Trail is a popular recreational area that is home to many trails for all ages and skill levels. The trail provides a nice place to enjoy the outdoors and is accessible for both walkers, runners, cyclists and horseback riders.
It also features outstanding views of small waterfalls and large car sized boulders draping the river bank. Expect to rock hop, climb and traverse these amazing structures as you enjoy this awe inspiring gorge.
The trail begins off Columbia Pike in a manicured gravel parking lot. It is a relatively short hike and is a great choice for beginner or experienced hikers alike. The trail is primarily a well maintained path with several stream crossings and is a great option for a relaxing nature walk. There are also numerous perch points along the way to take in the beauty of this pristine natural area. Read More About This.
Driving direction from Power Wash Company to Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park
Driving direction from Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park to Maryvale Park