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Elena Gilroy, Mallows Bay Operations Manager, Charles County Recreation, Parks and Tourism, gives an introduction of what you can experience while exploring Mallows Bay Park and its associated hiking trails in Nanjemoy, Maryland. Credit: National Marine Sanctuary Foundation/NOAA.

Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary

The three main hiking trails in Mallows Bay Park are the Nature Loop, the Beaver Trail, and the Ridge Trail. They can be completed one at a time or hiked all together on about a 2-mile loop. Each trail ranges in difficulty from easy to moderate and offers many plants, wildlife, and habitat types. These trails move between forests and wetlands and offer photos and videos of the plants, animals, and fungi that live there.  You can even see some changes among the different seasons in the beautiful Mallows Bay Park.


Mallows Bay EMERGENCY & SAFETY INFORMATION

Due to the location of the park, during an emergency please call the Charles County Sheriff’s Department, they will connect caller with the county 911 services.
The number is 301-932-2222
*Please install this number on your device.

Hiking Safety Tips

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
  • Long pants, long sleeves, and bug repellant can help prevent insect bites
  • Stay on the trail at all times
  • Check for ticks after your hike
  • Observe wildlife from a safe distance
  • Bring plenty of water

Explore the Trails


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Nature Loop

Length: 1 mile Difficulty: Easy/moderate The Nature Loop is an easy trail that winds up and down through an area of low-lying ground that is subject to flooding, creating floodplain... read more

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Beaver Trail

Length: 0.5 miles Difficulty: Moderate/difficult Along this trail, hikers will walk along the slopes of the Beaver Pond, where evidence of beaver activity can be seen. Under the shade of... read more

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Ridge Trail

Length: 0.5 miles Difficulty: Easy/moderate Winding through an upland forest dominated by pine trees, visitors to the Ridge Trail can witness a stunning overlook of a vibrant wetland. Keep an... read more


Mallows Bay Current Conditions

March 28, 2024 01:29 PM


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