#Potomac Heritage Trail

[istandonsnowpiles]

Waterfall under a Highway

[sabistarphotos]

March 15, 2024

Washington, DC

[itsmeutsav95]

Exploring Nature's Bounty: The Best Hiking Trails Near Ashburn, Virginia.

Nestled in the heart of Northern Virginia, Ashburn is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its picturesque landscapes and abundance of trails, Ashburn offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a novice adventurer, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best hiking trails near Ashburn, Virginia:

Algonkian Regional Park: Located just a short drive from Ashburn, Algonkian Regional Park boasts over 800 acres of scenic woodlands and riverfront views. The park features several hiking trails, including the popular Potomac Heritage Trail, which meanders along the banks of the Potomac River. With its gentle terrain and breathtaking scenery, Algonkian Regional Park is perfect for hikers of all ages and abilities.

Loudoun Heights Trail: For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Loudoun Heights Trail offers rugged terrain and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This 6.5-mile out-and-back trail begins at the historic town of Harpers Ferry and ascends to the summit of Loudoun Heights, where hikers can enjoy sweeping vistas of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers.

Bles Park: Situated along the banks of Broad Run, Bles Park is a hidden gem in Ashburn, offering scenic trails and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The park features a network of looping trails that wind through wooded areas and meadows, providing hikers with a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Potomack Lakes Sportsplex Trail: Conveniently located in the heart of Ashburn, the Potomack Lakes Sportsplex Trail is a favorite among local residents for its easy accessibility and picturesque surroundings. This paved trail meanders through lush greenery and around serene lakes, making it perfect for leisurely strolls or brisk jogs.

W&OD Trail: Stretching 45 miles from Shirlington to Purcellville, the Washington & Old Dominion Trail (W&OD) offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. As one of the region's premier multi-use trails, the W&OD Trail passes through Ashburn, providing residents with a convenient way to explore the area's natural beauty.

Seneca Regional Park: Just a short drive from Ashburn, Seneca Regional Park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features miles of hiking trails, including the popular Seneca Ridge Trail, which winds through dense woodlands and along the banks of Seneca Creek.

Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Regional Park: Situated along the Potomac River, Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Regional Park is a scenic oasis in the heart of Loudoun County. The park features several hiking trails, including the Red Rock Loop Trail, which offers stunning views of the river and surrounding cliffs.

From gentle strolls along tranquil rivers to challenging hikes up rugged mountainsides, the hiking trails near Ashburn, Virginia, offer something for everyone to enjoy. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and embark on an adventure into the great outdoors!

[jointcommandrealty]

Beyond Defense: Navigating Pentagon Real Estate

The proximity to the nation's capital and a rich historical backdrop contribute to the appeal of the Pentagon area. Whether seeking a home with a view of the iconic structure or commercial spaces for strategic business operations, exploring Pentagon real estate unveils a diverse landscape where history, security, and modern living converge.

Proximity to Washington, D.C.:

One of the primary attractions of Pentagon real estate is its proximity to Washington, D.C. Residents and businesses in the area benefit from easy access to the nation's capital, making it an ideal location for those working in government, defense, or related industries. The seamless connection enhances the convenience and accessibility of Pentagon real estate.

Diverse Residential Options:

Pentagon real estate offers a range of residential options, from upscale condos with panoramic views of the Potomac River to charming townhouses nestled in historic neighborhoods. The diverse housing landscape caters to individuals, families, and professionals seeking a place to call home within close reach of both urban amenities and green spaces.

Historic Significance:

The Pentagon's historical significance adds a unique dimension to the real estate in the surrounding areas. Living or working near this iconic structure provides residents and businesses with a palpable sense of history and connection to the nation's defense heritage. The area's rich past is reflected in the architecture, monuments, and memorials that dot the landscape.

Strategic Commercial Spaces:

Pentagon real estate is not limited to residential offerings; it also encompasses strategic commercial spaces. With numerous defense-related organizations, government agencies, and businesses in the vicinity, the area is a hub for defense contractors, technology firms, and other enterprises. Commercial properties in Pentagon real estate cater to those seeking proximity to key decision-makers and government entities.

Green Spaces and Recreation:

Despite its association with defense and government, Pentagon real estate boasts ample green spaces and recreational areas. Parks, trails, and waterfronts along the Potomac River provide residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor activities, creating a harmonious blend of urban living and natural beauty.

Commuter-Friendly Infrastructure:

The Pentagon's strategic location extends to its commuter-friendly infrastructure. Well-connected transportation options, including Metro stations, bus routes, and major highways, make commuting to and from the area efficient. This accessibility enhances the desirability of Pentagon real estate for those who value convenience in their daily lives.

Security and Safety:

The security measures in place around the Pentagon contribute to the overall safety of the surrounding neighborhoods. Residents and businesses benefit from heightened security protocols, creating a sense of safety and assurance in the community.

[realtorjamier]

Best Places Around the Area to See Fall Foliage!

Autumn’s natural glory will soon be ablaze with color, making it a great time to plan your leaf-peeping. Mid-October is generally the best time to start seeking out fall foliage, and the colors can continue well into November. For an animated map showing the progression of color across the U.S., check out this online illustration from The Farmer’s Almanac.

So where should you go locally to experience autumn at its finest? Here we offer some of the best spots in the DMV for photographing fall scenery – whether it’s for dynamic social media posts, placing your pictures in a frame, or just taking snapshots with your mind.

Tidal Basin

Washington, D.C.

Spanning 107 acres, but just 10 feet deep, the Tidal Basin is well known for its lovely cherry blossoms in the spring, but in the fall these same trees turn a beautiful orange and gold! Enjoy a stroll around an easy two-mile loop.

Theodore Roosevelt Island

George Washington Memorial Parkway Arlington, VA

A two-mile path follows the island’s shore, moving into the swamp and tidal inlet where nature frames views of Washington, D.C. Buy the book “Finding Solace at Theodore Roosevelt Island” by Melanie Choukas-Bradley for an even more meaningful meander.

State Arboretum of Virginia

Blandy Experimental Farm Boyce, VA

Virginia’s State Arboretum spans 172 acres of tree and shrub collections dating back to the early 1930s. You can also experience the glorious golden 300 tree Ginkgo grove every fall.

Georgetown’s Cobblestone neighborhoods

Georgetown, D.C.

Georgetown is renowned for federalist architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic brick and frame row houses, some of which date to the mid-1700s. It’s also an origination point for the historic C & O Canal, a National Park which runs 184.5 miles into Cumberland, Md. Enjoy a fall stroll and consider taking a guided tour.

Rock Creek Park

Washington, D.C.

Created in 1890, Rock Creek Park is the oldest urban park in the National Park Service. Its 1,754 acres generally follows the Potomac River tributary of Rock Creek and includes a golf course, equestrian trails, an amphitheater, and picnic and playground facilities. It also includes Peirce Mill, a water-powered grist mill built in the 1820s.

Seneca Creek State Park

Gaithersburg, MD

More than 50 miles of trails wind through a variety of habitat, including the 90-acre Clopper Lake. A restored 19th-century cabin adds charm to your fall photographs.

Great Falls Park

McLean, VA

Three overlooks within a short walk front the Great Falls Park Virginia Visitor Center allow for spectacular scenery. Two of the overlooks are handicap and stroller accessible.

Great Falls Park

Potomac, MD

Visit the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center on the Maryland side of Great Falls Park, located at mile 14.3 along the C&O Canal towpath in Montgomery County, Md.  

Shenandoah National Park

Luray, VA

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Va., the park stretches 105 miles from the northern entrance in Front Royal to the southern entrance near Waynesboro. Skyline Drive is the main road running the span of the park – a scenic byway that can get especially busy during peak leaf-peeping times. 

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry, WV

Almost Heaven, but just a hop, skip, and a jump from the D.C. Metro area, Harpers Ferry is a time capsule nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers come together and continue eastward to the Chesapeake Bay as the Potomac river. Unfortunately, this fall’s rockslide stabilization project will make the travel to Harpers Ferry a bit tricky, so check your options online or through your favorite phone app.

South Mountain State Park

Boonsboro, MD

This 40-mile park weaves along South Mountain Ridge. Visitors can walk the same paths as the Civil War soldiers who fought at the 1862 Battle of South Mountain, climbing to enjoy breathtaking views. 

Rappahannock River Heritage Trail

Fredericksburg, VA

This paved pathway makes for an easy walk, but don’t let the pavement fool you – beautiful views of the Rappahannock River, Old Mill Park, and several historic mills are seen throughout the trail.

[onkar]

Sovereignty 

By: James Maloney Ask the lines of late Januaryin which marrow either is or is not.Declared four gases from the tongue,against our stride on Heritage trail. What is the shape of our character? Declared oak-rooted shoots as lignin tissue.Cross measures even hand Potomac overcast,our due course blossom-confederatesare five months East of the browned cattails. How lean are aspects of our…

[wgytravel]

The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2023

With much of the world reopened, 2023 is shaping up to be the year travel officially bounces back. We made our list of the 50 best destinations for 2023 a little differently this year: We asked Travel + Leisure’s editors where they want to go in the months ahead. Some are raring to get back to Japan, while others have the Trans-Bhutan Trail on their lists. Still more are planning a sail around Greenland, a wine-tasting trip on California’s central coast, and a visit to France’s next big wine region (which is, as it happens, tiny).

A few up-and-coming culinary destinations made our list, as did a remarkable piece of art, the size and scale of which boggles the imagination. While many of the team’s picks are remote, breathe-in-that-fresh-air kinds of places, our list doesn’t skimp on cities where the hustle and bustle is part of the fun.

But with so many choices now back on the map, there are as many styles of trips as there are places to explore. That’s why, for the first time in recent memory, we’ve broken our list of best places to go into categories.

The hope is that, whatever it is you’re after in the year ahead, you’ll find it in one of these 50 places. And who knows? We may just see you there.

For Cultural Riches Alexandria, Virginia

With postcard-perfect cobblestone streets and quick access to the wineries of northern Virginia, Alexandria is an easy city to love. But these days, the reason to go is to see how effectively the city is confronting its own history, as destinations across the American South grapple with the legacy of the Confederacy. Alexandria, which was founded as a tobacco port in 1749, was for decades of the 19th century the site of the country’s largest domestic slave trade. Today, the Freedom House Museum has three new exhibitions honoring the people who were forcibly brought here. Meanwhile, the African American Heritage Trail, which opened in 2020, follows the Potomac River and encompasses nearly 200 years of history at 11 stops, such as the Torpedo Factory, where many Black men and women worked during World War II. An extension of the route will debut in February 2023 with 20 new stops, including Waterfront Park, the port from which enslaved people were trafficked to places like New Orleans. At Jones Point Park, visitors can learn about Benjamin Banneker, an inventor, mathematician, and free African American from Maryland who was instrumental in the 1791 surveying team that determined the border of the new U.S. capital of Washington, D.C. (For an even deeper look at the city’s Black experience, book with Manumission Tours, which is run by a fourth-generation Alexandrian.) The city’s most elegant stay is Morrison House Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection, which was recently voted one of the best city hotels in the continental U.S. in T+L’s 2022 World’s Best Awards. A new Hotel AKA is slated to open in Old Town in winter 2023

Cairo and the Nile

It’s almost here: After more than a decade of construction — to say nothing of the hype — the Grand Egyptian Museum may finally open, just a stone’s throw from the Great Pyramids of Giza, this spring. What to expect? More than 1 million square feet of exhibition space, treasures including a 40-foot-high statue of Ramses II, outdoor gardens, and an expansive plaza from which visitors can take in the desert surroundings. Meanwhile, a number of new and luxurious ships have started sailing the Nile: Among the best choices are the Viking Osiris, an all-veranda vessel carrying 82 passengers, and the opulent Sphinx from Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, which has 42 cabins swathed in marble and hand-carved wood, with beds dressed in fine Egyptian cotton sheets. The hotel scene is also, thankfully, getting a refresh with a new Mandarin Oriental slated for downtown Cairo in 2024; the forthcoming 200-room Four Seasons Hotel Luxor is scheduled to debut in 2025 — not that you should wait that long to see the ancient Valley of the Kings

City,” Nevada

Even in a state known for its vast, empty landscapes, Basin and Range National Monument, about a two-hour drive north of Las Vegas, takes “remote” to a new level. The 704,000-acre preserve, created in 2015, provides endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, camping, and cycling; its desert valleys and mountain ranges are also dotted with Indigenous rock art sites. But the reason to go now is “City,” the single largest contemporary artwork in the world, which opened to visitors in September 2022. Made from dirt, rock, and concrete, the monumental open-air sculpture was more than 50 years in the making, a collection of mounds, depressions, and stelae conceived by the artist Michael Heizer. The endeavor — which was made possible by joint contributions from art institutions around the country, including LACMA and MoMA — will open to the public for the 2023 season by reservation only. The mile-and-a-half-long sculpture feels at once ancient and futuristic, a destination just as awe-inspiring as the natural one surrounding it

Read Full Blog About Best Places to Travel in 2023 please visit our website now: https://www.wgytravel.com/

[schmergo]

A walk from Arlington, Virginia to the Potomac River, 4/25/21

(Potomac Overlook Regional Park, Donaldson Run Trail, and the Potomac Heritage Trail)

[placeswordsdreams]

Potomac Heritage Trail

[americasgreatoutdoors]

Imagine a network of pathways and waterways through a corridor rich in natural beauty and historic importance. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail runs from Pennsylvania through Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. Visitors can explore by biking, hiking, riding or paddling. It’s a great place to get exercise the mind, body and spirit. Photo of Bonds Landing on the Potomac by Monica Larcom, National Park Service.

[pcttrailsidereader]

Oldest to Finish the PCT

Several friends sent me this weekend's news item about "Nimblewill Nomad", the 83-year-old hiker who has become the oldest person to complete the Appalachian Trail. Outside of the trail community, Nimblewill is M.J. Eberhart of Flagg Mountain, Alabama. It made me wonder about who the oldest senior citizen is to have completed the PCT.

A little research revealed that person to be Al 'Al' Learned, who completed the trail in 2018 (and also in 2003) at the age of 81 years and 58 days.

According to Al's Facebook page he has retired from long distance hiking, but spent 2019 supporting his son, "Where's Waldo" on his Continental Divide Trail thru attempt. Al started the trail with Waldo, hiked from each trailhead to meet or depart from Waldo and occasionally spent the night on the trail with Waldo.

Al in 2018 approaching Glacier Peak

Al's hiking resume is quite amazing and includes the following (in addition to his two PCT hikes). Based upon his dates, Al did some serious high mileage.

2005: Thru-hiked 2,663 mile Continental Divide National Scenic Trail southbound 6/11 - 10/4

2007: Thru-hiked 2,174 mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail southbound at 70 years of age, 8/7 - 11/3

2010: Summited 20,230 foot Mt McKinley a couple months before he turned 73 on 5/21.

2011: Thru-hiked 1,193 mile Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail westbound 7/9 - 9/27

2012: Thru-hiked 800 mile Arizona National Scenic Trail northbound 4/7 - 5/11

2013: Thru-hiked 4,425 mile North Country National Scenic Trail eastbound with 34 days off trail recovering from a tick disease from 4/19 - 11/12

2015: Thru-hiked 1,107 mile Florida National Scenic Trail northbound 1/9 - 2/22

2015: Thru-hiked 454 mile Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail northbound 3/31 - 4/14

2015: Thru-hiked 1,094 mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail eastbound 8/1 - 9/7

2016: Thru-hiked 887 mile Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail northbound 7/31 - 8/29

2016: Thru-hiked the 235 mile New England National Scenic Trail northbound 8/31 -9/10

Al turned 68 in 2005 which is my current age . . . and, at that time he was just getting started.

Rees Hughes

[hagerstowninfo]

Things To Do And See In Hagerstown, Maryland

A quaint, historic town of eastern Maryland known for its horse markets and museums, Hagerstown, Maryland is located on the banks of the Potomac River. The unique architectural styles reflected in this community to make it a great place to live. In addition to being home to a wide variety of attractions and events, many residents enjoy all of the perks associated with being a resident of Hagerstown. The following are some perks that can make living in Hagerstown an enjoyable experience.

There is no shortage of things to do in Hagerstown. There are numerous festivals held yearly including the annual Wiss Summer Fest, Schuylkill Bluegrass Festival, and the Schuylkill River Fest to name a few. These festivals celebrate everything from the arts and culture to the heritage and history. Take the kids to one of these events and you can witness first hand the local entertainment that calls Hagerstown home.

If you love nature and the outdoors, Hagerstown has over 70 parks to enjoy. Some of the most beautiful and scenic parks are located within walking distance to quaint downtown shops. You can find playgrounds, nature trails and scenic paths that will allow you to enjoy the wonders of nature while still keeping your feet dry. The Hagerstown Parks Conservatory and Botanical Garden are another great place to visit. Here you can view beautiful flowers while listening to the sounds of running water. The New Hope Garden is another green haven in Hagerstown.

When the sun goes down, you can enjoy great outdoor activities. Hagerstown is home to over 60 public parks and nature preserves. Most of these parks are maintained by the Hagerstown Historical Society and feature playground equipment, nature studies, gardens, picnic areas, and other fun activities. The Fells Point Park is one of the largest parks in the area featuring an observation tower, hiking trails, baseball diamond, and several picnic spots. The Horseshoe Pond Park offers excellent boat docks and many other options for an evening of water sports.

If you like shopping, Hagerstown has numerous local stores that cater to a variety of shoppers. Many carry popular brands and offer competitive prices. There are also large superstores that sell everything from electronics to clothing. The Latham Square Mall boasts a giant video screen that shows movies when you are in need of a break from the screen.

When you need to get away from the hustle of the city, drive into Hagerstown and enjoy the peaceful beauty of The Great Southern Valley. The atmosphere in this area is perfect for taking a break and enjoying some peace and quiet. The Horseshoe Run Country Club is a private club with tennis, golf, swimming, hiking, and many other activities for the entire family. The clubhouse offers amazing access to The Great Southern Valley and the beautiful Potomac River Valley. Other activities in the area include: horseback riding, hiking, camping, cabin rentals, hiking, bicycling, history, music, and nature programs.

If you love the feel of a natural environment, Hagerstown has plenty of parks for you to enjoy. The Wisserve Park is located in Wisskill, just a few minutes from Hagerstown. The Wisserve Park features walking and biking trails, picnic tables, playground equipment, and a concession stand. The Hanger Mountain Park is only five miles from Hagerstown and offers hiking, biking, swimming, and a beautiful view of the nearby Shenandoah River. The Blue Ridge Parkway is only about a half-mile drive from Hagerstown and another great place to visit with your family or on a romantic weekend trip.

You will find several great dining options in Hagerstown as well. Several restaurants offer gourmet meals and you will find that your taste buds will be begging you to return again for more. Try the Hagerstown Olive Garden, The Hainanese, and the Golden Corral. The local hotels are located near many of the attractions in Hagerstown and some even have nice outdoor parking lots. You can stay at one of these hotels and enjoy all of the things to do and see in Hagerstown, Maryland.

[juniperandmagpie]

Our National Parks Sites Bucket List by State

It goes without saying that we plan to eventually conquer all 59 US National Parks, but there are quite a few other sites run by the National Parks Services that we want to see in addition to the parks. Below is our bucket list of all the nationally designated areas we'd like to see in the US in alphabetical order. We hope this inspires you to go out and see some of these sites that are near you!

For more bucket list inspiration: Check out our list of America's best thru-hikes, our epic road trip plan to see all of the contingent US National Parks, and our "get started" map to see what wilderness areas are close to you!

Alabama

Little River Canyon National Preserve • Russell Cave National Monument

Alaska

Alagnak Wild River • Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve • Bering Land Bridge National Preserve • Cape Krusenstern National Monument • Denali National Park • Denali National Preserve • Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve • Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve • Katmai National Park and Preserve • Kenai Fjords National Park • Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park • Kobuk Valley National Park • Lake Clark National Park and Preserve • Noatak National Preserve • Sitka National Historical Park • Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve • Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve

Arizona

Canyon De Chelly National Monument • Chiricahua National Monument • Glen Canyon National Recreation Area • Grand Canyon National Park • Montezuma Castle National Monument • Navajo National Monument • Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument • Petrified Forest National Park • Saguaro National Park • Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument • Tonto National Monument • Tuzigoot National Monument • Walnut Canyon National Monument • Wupatki National Monument

Arkansas

Buffalo National River • Hot Springs National Park

California

Cabrillo National Monument • Castle Mountains National Monument • Channel Islands National Park • Death Valley National Park • Devils Postpile National Monument • Golden Gate National Recreational Area • Joshua Tree National Park • Kings Canyon National Park • Lassen Volcanic National Park • Lava Beds National Monument • Mojave National Preserve • Muir Woods National Monument • Pinnacles National Park • Point Reyes National Seashore • Redwood National Park • Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area • Sequoia National Park • Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area • Yosemite National Park

Colorado

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park • Colorado National Monument • Currecanti National Recreation Area • Dinosaur National Monument • Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument • Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve • Hovenweep National Monument • Mesa Verde National Park • Rocky Mountain National Park • Yucca House National Monument

Florida

Big Cypress National Preserve • Biscayne National Park • Canaveral National Seashore • Dry Tortugas National Park • Everglades National Park • Gulf Islands National Seashore • Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

Georgia

Appalachian National Scenic Trail • Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area • Cumberland Island National Seashore • Ocmulgee National Monument

Hawaii

Haleakala National Park • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park • Kalaupapa National Historical Park • Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park • Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park • Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

Idaho

City of Rocks National Reserve • Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve • Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument • Nez Perce National Historical Park

Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Kansas

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Kentucky

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park • Mammoth Cave National Park

Maine

Acadia National Park

Maryland

Assateague Island National Seashore • Catoctin Mountain Park • Piscataway Park • Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Massachusetts

Cape Cod National Seashore

Michigan

Isle Royale National Park • Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Minnesota

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area • Pipestone National Monument • Voyageurs National Park

Montana

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area • Glacier National Park

Nebraska

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument • Missouri National Recreational River • Niobrara National Scenic River • Scotts Bluff National Monument

Nevada

Great Basin National Park • Lake Mead National Recreation Area • Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

New Mexico

Aztec Ruins National Monument • Bandelier National Monument • Capulin Volcano National Monument • Carlsbad Caverns National Park • Chaco Culture National Historical Park • El Malpais National Monument • El Morro National Monument • Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument • Petroglyph National Monument • Valles Caldera National Preserve • White Sands National Monument

North Carolina

Blue Ridge Parkway • Cape Hatteras National Seashore • Cape Lookout National Seashore

North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Ohio

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Oregon

Crater Lake National Park • John Day Fossil Beds National Monument • Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve

Pennsylvania

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area • Middle Delaware National Scenic River • Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River

South Carolina

Congaree National Park

South Dakota

Badlands National Park • Jewel Cave National Monument • Mount Rushmore National Memorial • Wind Cave National Park

Tennessee

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area • Great Smokey Mountains National Park • Obed Wild and Scenic River

Texas

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument • Amistad National Recreation Area • Big Bend National Park • Big Thicket National Preserve • Guadalupe Mountains National Park • Lake Meredith National Recreation Area • Padre Island National Seashore • Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River

Utah

Arches National Park • Bryce Canyon National Park • Canyonlands National Park • Capitol Reef National Park • Cedar Breaks National Monument • Natural Bridges National Monument • Rainbow Bridge National Monument • Timpanogos Cave National Monument • Zion National Park

Virginia

Shenandoah National Park

Washington

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area • Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area • Mount Rainier National Park • North Cascades National Park • Olympic National Park • Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Wisconsin

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore • Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

Wyoming

Devils Tower National Monument • Fossil Butte National Monument • Grand Teton National Park • John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway • Yellowstone National Park

American Samoa

National Park of American Samoa

Puerto Rico

San Juan National Historic Site

Virgin Islands

Buck Island Reef National Monument • Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument • Virgin Islands National Park

See a site you think we missed? We'd love to hear about your favorite nationally designated areas!

[marylandwildlifesanctuaries-blog]

Top five Nationwide Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Maryland and get a Household Trip

There in truth is no higher state than Maryland for Nationwide Parks enthusiasts. From wildlife reserves to Nationwide Historic Websites, the parks here are untouched, pure, and breathtaking every in the own way. We want everyone had be certain to visit all of those 28 parks at the least once, however i be aware that leisure time is sparse and duties back at home are lots (however you can take a little time avoid chores!), so we present you with 5 parks in Maryland for family reunions and solo adventures.

1. South Mountains State Park

Let’s begin our record with probably the most impressive parks in all of Maryland. The South Mountains State Park is an imposing stretch of land that homes 3,000-foot elevations, an 80-foot waterfall plug into many mountain streams, and also over 40 miles of equestrian, mountaineering, and biking trails that may take you from one lush, breathtaking view besides the next. This is also one of the parks for this checklist that gives a real backcountry expertise, with 24 backpacking campsites at seven completely different locations. And get a classical camping trip, another possibility is trailer parking and lots of drive-to campsites.

2. Seneca Creek State Park

This stunning national park in Montgomery County is a fantastic spot for many various reasons, one of which you'll find is the gorgeous view a little distance from 14 miles of scenic road along Seneca Creek, which you can observe all the way directly into Potomac River. You can even catch many nice views at the Clopper Day-Use Areas, which includes ninety-acre Clopper Lake and the surrounding forests. Actions for everyone in your house include picnics, boat rentals, hiking trails, playgrounds, and not to mention a self-guided path which provides you with to find out about the world’s history. Are you into horseback driving and using your bike? You will find over 50 miles of trails just for that!

3. Assateague State Park

Within the Worcester County, this park is exclusive as it’s totally found on the northern end of Assateague Island, that features Sinepuxent Bay and the Atlantic ocean as and also the everywhere you look, respectively. The park campground has an astounding 350 websites for you and your household to really enjoy, and to discover the views whatever the bay truly are something to behold no much less than once in the lifetime. Rackliffe Home, a restored 18th-century coastal plantation building, overlooks the bay and houses the Coastal Maryland Heritage Center. A just one or two of the wildlife you will discover in the park are deer, several species of waterfowl, in addition to feral horses, this which you'll discover that is a tremendous sight.

4. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

This area was established to be the sanctuary for migratory birds in 1933 as a place so which these could cease under the Atlantic Flyway, that's one whatever the greatest routes which these follow in the north hemisphere. You'll be able to consider it a roadside inn for touring birds that are between their own home as and also their vacation rentals. In any scenario, the Blackwater Nationwide Wildlife Refuge is the house of an amazing selection of animals, from mammals as brief as the Gray Squirrel and as large as the white-tailed deer, along with all sorts of amphibians, reptiles, and birds of most sizes. Much of the refuge is wetlands however it furnishes many alternatives for guests of all ages to enjoy the scenery, such as the visitor heart, mountain climbing and biking trails, and in fact the Wildlife Drive.

5. Catoctin Mountain

That is probably the greatest nationwide parks in Maryland for journey lovers and thrillseekers because of all of the actions it furnishes With over 25 miles of mountaineering trails, together with fishing alternatives, equestrian trails, mountain climbing, and a long collection of great views throughout the park. On prime of that, you can take the Orienteering class available in a Park Ranger which you could learn to navigate in the wilderness utilizing a map and a compass. Of course, you can also come accross tenting websites and lodging if you would like to stay for a long time, which is basically the easiest way to accept it makes huge bet for nature lovers. The picture-ops are fantastic all around the park, so you'd better travel there with a pal with a superb eye for pictures!

All these places parks is particular within this own way, while many of them supply similar things, corresponding to hiking trails and wildlife, the experiences and sights will be unique. Make some time to take a look with the whole family quickly!

[lansdownebjjclub-blog]

Lansdowne is a Beautiful Place With Fun Activities Close By!

Fun activities in Lansdowne

Lansdowne is a small but beautiful planned community in Northern Virginia. Despite its size, Lansdowne offers quite a few activities that visitors of all ages can enjoy. People from all over the country visit this lovely place, although perhaps mostly from the Washington Metropolitan area since it is a mere 25 miles away and easy to get here. In Lansdowne, you can also have a specialist help you with any respiratory or sleeping problems that you might be experiencing at the NOVA Pulmonary and Critical Care Associates, LLC. Some people come to visit family or friends who happen to live in Lansdowne, while a lot come for the resort in order to get away from the stress of everyday city life, and yet others come for other reasons, but whatever your reason for visiting Lansdowne is, you can rest assured that you are going to have the time of your life.

You will find a wide variety of things that you can do such as hiking on Lansdowne’s part of the famous Potomac Heritage Trail which runs right through town and is 10.3 miles long, kayaking on the Potomac River, horse riding along beautiful trails, and eve Jiu-Jitsu lessons right in town!

Here is a list of some of the interesting things that you can enjoy while visiting Lansdowne:

Moskal Golf

Have you been thinking about investing time in golfing lessons? Maybe your game is not what it should be and you would like some top-of-the-line lessons from a true professional golfer? While you are in Lansdowne, you can visit this amazing golf academy just south of Lansdowne; it is run by former professional Stephen Moskal who has competed on the French National Circuit, the United Kingdom Mastercard Tour, and the European Challenge Tour, making the lessons that you will receive here worth the time and effort! There are various options such as private and group lessons for both adult and junior clients; you can also take advantage of a package in order to save some money in the long run!

Bles Park

Again just south of Lansdowne, you will find the beautiful Bles Park which is a huge 124 acre park that is ideal for anyone who likes to stay active; about a quarter of the park features soccer fields, walking and hiking trails, and even a small playground so that the little ones can have fun too! The remaining three-quarters of the parkare filled with wetlands that include parts of the majestic Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail as well as the Broad Run Corridor Trail. This impressive park has a wide variety of animals such as frogs, toads, and others that can be seen in their natural habitat!

Lansdowne’s Martial Arts Center

Lansdowne is definitely a wonderful place for visitors of all ages and most especially if you love natural settings. ! Lansdowne is definitely a place worth visiting! As mentioned earlier, you can even learn martial arts here at the Lansdowne Jiu-Jitsu Club which focuses on teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the people of Lansdowne and surrounding communities. You will learn self-defense techniques while getting great exercise

Contact Us-

Nova Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates, LLC

Address: 19420 Golf Vista Plaza suite 230b, Lansdowne, VA 20176, USA

Phone: +1 571-367-0000

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Grist Mill Trail

So you ride to the end of the Mount Vernon Trail (MVT) to Mile Marker Mile 0. You've paid your respects to George and Martha Washington, and you want to keep riding. Where do you go from there?

The next step is to head west along Mount Vernon Memorial Highway (MVMH).

  Unfortunately, MVMH is an unwelcoming 45 MPH, two-lane road.  It has sharrows, and it also has segments of a paved trail.  The paved trail is sometimes referred to as the MVMH trail, the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and the Grist Mill Trail.  We'll refer to it as the Grist Mill Trail because it connects the Mount Vernon Estate to Washington's Grist Mill and Distillery.  

Despite the Grist Mill Trail, most bicyclists ride on the MVMH with the 45+ MPH traffic because the trail is in poor condition, trail segments end suddenly, and it crisscrosses the MVMH at various points. 

There is currently a $6.5 million project to complete the missing segments of the Grist Mill Trail.  The project would install paved trail between Southwood Drive and Richmond Highway (U.S. Route 1) for a length of approximately two miles.  Significantly, the project would not repair the existing trail and it would not solve the issue of the trail crisscrossing the busy, high-speed MVMH.  The project is still in the preliminary design phase.

Two miles of paved trail may sound minor, but when completed, the trail will be another piece in an effort to create a Northern Virginia paved trail loop that already includes the MVT, the Washington and Old Dominion Trail, Four Mile Run Trail, and sidepaths along Rt. 1, Lorton Road, Route 123, Burke Center Parkway, and the Fairfax County Parkway.  The Grist Mill Trail will connect pedestrians and bicyclists to many significant cultural and historical sites, including Mount Vernon Estate, Washington's Grist Mill and Distillery, Woodlawn Plantation, the Pope-Leighey House, Gunston Hall, and Mason Neck State Park.

It will also help in providing a safe route to school for students at Washington Mill Elementary School, which is located just off the MVHM, next to Washington Mill Park.