A word that can be used both as a noun and a verb, the word saunter means to take a leisurely stroll. Symbolizing the importance of engaging in such relaxation-inducing activities, World Sauntering Day is here to remind us to pause! Here are five places to go for a stroll across Maryland—with your family or on your own:
Gywnns Fall Trail | Gwynn Oak Ave., Baltimore, MD 21207
A unique trail that acts as a neighborhood connector, the Gywnns Falls Trail is a 22-mile stretch open to both hikers and cyclists. The route has access to Dead Run and Gywnns Fall Valley parks and provides opportunities for activities such as bird watching, fishing and picnicking….
Cunningham Falls State Park | 14274 William Houck Drive, Thurmont, MD 21788
A park tucked between the mountains with a waterfall and a lake might sound like a picture from a fairy tale book. Cunningham Falls State Park brings this picture to life amid the Catoctin Mountains. The park offers hiking, fishing and canoeing experiences for families, and with camper cabins available now through October, there is time to explore the Catoctin Iron Furnace—the industrial heart of the Historical American Revolution.
Agricultural History Farm Park | 18400 Muncaster Road, Derwood, MD 20855
A park that offers not just an abundance of scenic flora but also a diversity of fauna is situated in Montgomery County for anyone’s leisurely stroll. Agricultural History Farm Park has rolling hills, apple orchards, and open fields—and also gives visitors the opportunity to learn about the county’s farming history with agriculture-centric facilities such as barns, a modern farming activity center and farm animals.
Monocacy Scenic Water Trail | 10611 Rocky Ridge Road Thurmont, MD 2178
A place where land and water intersect, the Monocacy Scenic Water Trail gives hikers the opportunity to explore a 41.8 -mile water trail, along with water-centric activities for paddlers of all levels. Divided into three segments, the structure of the trail is flexible and routes can be adapted to fit family schedules.
Stony Run Trail | Stony Run, Walking Path, Baltimore, MD 21211
The Stony Run Trail, a mostly wooded 3-mile forested trail, runs adjacent to Stony Run Creek. It intersects with Loyola University and John Hopkins universities and is also surrounded by several high schools. For students, that means their morning walk to school may be more scenic and refreshing.
