Forest Habitat Trail: Patuxent Wildlife Refuge

It may have been a wee bit early in the year for this walk--not to mention a wee bit wet and muddy after heavy rains the day before--but I see great potential for this one for a group walk. It's a very pleasant and easy 2.5 miles through the woods, with interpretative signs throughout to educate us about the trees.

This walk is one of the trails in the North Tract of the Patuxent Wildlife Refuge. (There is also a South Tract, which is home to the Refuge's National Wildlife Visitor Center and several popular trails, including one around Cash Lake. The North and South tracts are accessed via different entrances.) Access to the the North is on Bald Eagle drive near the intersection of Rt 32 and Rt 198.

We scouted this trail on Sunday, April 17. We had actually been to this refuge several times in the past--though not very recently. I was surprised at the condition of Bald Eagle drive. Quite a number of pot holes to dodge! But, always the optimist, I figured this might help keep the area from becoming too popular and crowded.

You must also check in at the Ranger Contact Station, and fill out a form with your vehicle information. You then carry the pink copy with you and place the yellow one in your car--and return both to the station before you leave the refuge.

The Forest Habitat Trail starts right across from the ranger station with a boardwalk that passes through a butterfly garden and bird feeding area. It had rained pretty heavily the day before so once we crossed the boardwalk we found ourselves slogging through some muddy patches. But things did clear up as we continued.

Map of North Tract Trails - Patuxent Wildlife Refuge

Surprisingly, the forest still seemed like it was hanging onto winter. Trees were barely beginning to leaf out and ferns and wildflowers had not yet emerged. But it was beautiful and peaceful nonetheless, and the dogs seemed to enjoy it as much as we did.

In a few more weeks--or less, I'm sure the dogwoods and moutain laurel will be blooming. We'll aim for another weekend walk here.