Beginner Trail
Middle Branch Loop
MIDDLE BRANCH LOOP
Beginner | 2.5miles
DESCRIPTION:
Enjoy this 2.5 mile loop trail near Baltimore, Maryland. This route is suitable for paddlers of all levels and is generally considered an easy route. Paddlers can expect to see wildlife on this route. The best time to visit is May through October. This trail is accessible via kayak launch at Middle Branch Park.
The Middle Branch Loop is the easiest paddling route on the Baltimore Blueway. The near total absence of powered watercraft makes this a very approachable paddle for beginners. The trail is terrific for bird watching including bald eagles, osprey, egrets, terns, heron and more. Paddlers should be mindful of shallow areas including Ridgley’s Cove located north of the Spring Garden Swing Bridge.
ACCESS POINT & LAUNCH DETAILS:
Middle Branch Park is located south of the Inner Harbor on the Patapsco. In addition to the park’s trails and recreation center, there is a kayak and canoe launch available for use.
GETTING THERE:
This trail is accessible via kayak launch at Middle Branch Park. There is a free parking lot and electric vehicle charging station.
ACCESS POINTS & REST STOPS:
*This trail currently does not have any other access points or rest stops. Take a look at the suggested enhancements we have for this water trail further down the page.
LANDMARKS & WAYPOINTS:
Proposed Enhancements:
Middle Branch Park is already the best place to launch a kayak in Baltimore, but it is underutilized. Public access would be greatly improved by adding a soft beach for launching near the Broening Park boat ramp. Ridgley’s Cove could be an incredibly unique paddling destination, but it needs signage warning paddlers of the dangers during low tide. Demarcation of a paddling channel in Ridgley’s Cove would allow users to avoid the shallows.
