Quiet Waters Park – Bike path and beyond – 5.2 miles

1/17/2021 Red Maple Pavilion – Bike path south – Wildwood trail – noname trail to beach – Harness Creek trail – shortcut to avoid people to two more beaches – Holly Pavilion heading back – Quiet Waters Park road – back to Bike path north – Red Maple Pavilion

Elevation gain: 180.4 ft

Location: 600 Quiet Waters Park rd. Annapolis, MD 21403

🐕

I have found this gem two years ago when we were looking for dog beaches. It’s a very popular, wonderful, dog friendly park with a designated small dog beach that can get super crowded in the summer.

On a day like this – in the dead of winter – it offers more space and less people. Even tho it’s colder than what my husband prefers, he came along with us. I will try to walk the whole perimeter of the park with him but will not hold my breath….

We are right on the Chesapeake Bay but a closer look reveals that the beaches are in Harness Creek that connects to South River.

We are starting out from one of the closest parking areas to the entrance. By the way this park has an entrance fee (few dollars). However it is kept clean with several large pavilions (Red Maple, Sycamore, White Oak, Dogwood, Holly), grilling opportunities, a Concert Stage, lots of picnic benches and small beaches.

The Bike Path is paved, however there are hiking trails beyond it, through the forest, closest to the water. Unfortunately we miss our first opportunity just before White Oak pavilion to make our loop longer and to enjoy the views of Old Pace Cove.

Have no fear, there is another cut off after the Blue Heron Center, called Wildwood Trail.

I’ve counted three small wooden bridges on the path crossing over teeny-tiny brooks. There are two educational displays as well, teaching about compost….one is here where we take Wildwood trail.

Look at this wonderful view at the end of the trail.

Continuing on Harness Creek trail would take us to the Boat Rental building but somehow it feels crowded so we cut through, cutting off about three tenths of a mile. We are rewarded with magical views.

Even tho I try to convince my hubby to take the time and walk down to the dog beach, we end up cutting our loop short. Instead of turning right to reach the southern most point of the park we turn left, heading towards the Visitor Center.

We also miss the nearby dog park, situated in the next turn heading towards the South River. However, we come across a few doggies while marching towards the small man made lake next to the main buildings. It’s a very relaxing and inviting atmosphere in nice weather we would sit on one of the benches to enjoy the sounds.

After catching back up to the Bike path on the right we continue north just enjoying our time here, walking slow. This also gives Mag plenty of opportunities to smell every living thing in his path.

After passing the Gate house in the middle we stroll another three tenths of a mile to the very beginning of the park. The path loops back towards the south, taking us back to our starting point. Since this is the actual origin of the path the park’s rules are posted here.

In about a half a mile later we are back to our vehicle. Checking Mag for ticks is a must and we also make sure he is well hydrated.

Here is our action map.

Driving home takes us about an hour and after picking up food Mag hits the snooze button. Rest well deserved!