Patapsco River Trail
Intermediate Trail
Patapsco River Trail
Intermediate | 3.75 miles to Baltimore-Washington Parkway Bridge (7.5 miles roundtrip)
DESCRIPTION:
Check out this 7.5 mile out and back trail near Middle Branch, Maryland. This route is suitable for experienced paddlers and is generally considered a moderately challenging trail. Paddlers can expect city views and wildlife encounters along this trail. It is a popular place for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching, so you are likely to encounter other people on your trip. The best time to visit is between May and October. This trail is accessible via boat launch at Broening Park or Southwest Area Park.
The Patapsco Trail includes sections of Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Anne Arundel County. Paddlers will find themselves immersed in nature while paddling beneath bridges and train trusses. Approximately 1.5 miles from the river mouth, paddlers will find extensive tidal wetlands that are home to diverse species of marine wildlife. At the mouth of the river, it is common to see people crabbing from the bridges or fishing from piers.
ACCESS POINTS & LAUNCH DETAILS:
Broening Park: The Broening Park Boat Ramp is located in Middle Branch Park, located in the Cherry Hill Area of South Baltimore. The Park is located on the Patapsco River and features picturesque city views. The park has two boat launches and two fishing piers.
ACCESS POINTS & REST STOPS:
*This trail currently does not have any rest stops. Take a look at the suggested enhancements we have for this water trail further down the page.
LANDMARKS & WAYPOINTS:
Proposed Enhancements:
The Non-Tidal Patapsco Trail would benefit from improved kayak launching and signage at Baltimore County’s Southwest Area Park. It is also recommended that kayak access be added to the Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness Center at Cherry Hill, which would allow the recreation center to incorporate paddle sports into programing for community residents.
