I know what you’re thinking: with all the beautiful state parks in Maryland, and all the scenic vistas our state has on tap for viewing the fall foliage, how can one of the smallest state parks in Maryland hope to compete? Well, wonder no longer, because the Matthew Henson State Park Trail manages to astound in spite of the relatively small acreage it boasts. It may be one of Maryland’s smaller state parks, but it certainly is not lacking for trees, and thus is home to some of the best fall foliage in the Old Line State!
This publicly owned greenway extends just over 4 miles from residential Silver Spring to Rock Creek Park. Overall Matthew Henson State Park runs for just about 100 acres, making it one of the smaller state parks in Maryland!
This small state park was named after Matthew Henson, the African-American explorer who ventured to the Arctic no less than seven times in his career. A born Marylander, Henson would eventually come to serve as the navigator of several expeditions.
Henson accomplished many remarkable feats in his illustrious career, including being among the first people to reach the geographic North Pole of the Earth. The park was named for him in 1989, and his story can be read on signs at various stops along the trail.
About a half-mile of the Matthew Henson Trail features wooden boardwalks, built over the natural streams and wetlands that wind down into Rock Creek Park.
There’s no sound more refreshing for me than the cool autumn breeze rustling through bamboo leaves. There are several little groves along the trail that almost make the air seem fresher.
The Matthew Henson Trail meets up with Rock Creek Park at Winding Creek. During the fall the streams along the trail gather the leaves and whisk them all the way to Washington, D.C.
On a bright, brisk autumn afternoon there’s nothing I would rather do than take a leisurely stroll along this boardwalk admiring the leaves beginning to change. If you keep your eyes open as you go, you’re sure to spot some of the local wildlife just off the trail!
As the weather gets chillier, you’ll start to need warm clothing to get out and get your hiking in. Check out The North Face for any winter outdoor wear needs that arise!
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