While we were pretty disappointed that the Cash Lake Trail did not actually lead to any benjamins 🤣, we still highly recommend this mainly flat, 2-miles or so hike that begins at the Patuxent Research Refuge Visitors Center in Laurel.
Cash Lake Trail at the Patuxent Research Refuge
We went with the family last month and found this trail to be easy enough for folks of all ages to enjoy. Four-legged friends are welcome, too! (Just be sure to pick up after *all* of your family members.)
Trails open sunrise to sunset at the National Wildlife Visitor Center.
There are little pockets of places for you to rest, sit, daydream along the way. And plenty of trees for all to explore. And, of course, a lovely lake.
Tips for Your Visit
- The Visitors Center is closed and last we were there, there was 1 port-a-potty, so empty your tanks before you leave the house…
- Keep your distance and use your common sense. When we were there, it was not crowded and folks were good about keeping their distance. If you find that to not be the case, find another place to go. (More ideas below!)
- Bring a plastic bag with you and perhaps plogg along the way! More on our Earth Day Plogging fun here.
- Some trails or park services may be closed so check with local authorities before heading out.
Address for the Patuxent Research Refuge: 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop
Laurel, MD 20708-4027
More Outdoor Fun Near the Route 1 Corridor
Bladensburg Waterfront Park
Bladensburg Waterfront Park in Bladensburg is one of our go-tos for outdoor fun. Located on the Anacostia River and with the Anacostia River Trail running through it, it’s perfect for walking, running, biking, scootering, mambo-ing, whatever-ing along for some fresh air. On lovely days, you’ll find more than yourself there but always enough space to keep a healthy distance. Our kids love climbing the hills off the path as you make your way towards DC.
Brookside Gardens
Brookside Gardens in Wheaton is about a 20-minute or so drive from Hyattsville and is a beautiful place to explore. Admission to the gardens is free. Paths, sculptures, trees, plants, fountains. There’s also a fun, outdoor kid’s place area with dirt kitchen. Use your best judgment. As of today, the official note is “Outdoor areas of the parks will remain open to the public from sunrise to sunset.”
Greenbelt Park
With nine miles of trails and three picnic areas, Greenbelt Park is a great place to explore the Great Outdoors! There are four different trails you can take to explore the park: Blueberry Trail is 0.8 miles; Dogwood Trail is 1.5 miles; Azalea Trail is 1.2 miles and Perimeter Trail is 5.3 miles. (Word of caution: These trails are not paved; they’re packed dirt/gravel; pointing this out for folks like my mom, who loves the outdoors but needs a flat surface on which to enjoy such.)
More Route 1 COVID-19 Resources
- These local garden nurseries deliver to the Route 1 Corridor?
- Family Wellness Tips from Hyattsville’s Dr. Qadira Huff.
- These Route 1 Small Businesses sell homemade face masks!
- Don’t forget – these local grocery stores offer special shopping hours for our older friends and those with compromised immune systems.
- And these local pharmacies now offer free 1-2 day delivery of your prescription medications.
- Need a break from coronavirus info? Read up on Lakeland, the Historic African American Community of College Park.
- Here’s a list of local businesses providing alcohol-delivery and curbside pickup near the Route 1 corridor.
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