NANJEMOY, Md. -- Southern Maryland residents are invited to lace up their hiking boots and enjoy one of the region's most scenic autumn outings during a Guided Fall Hike at Mallows Bay Park on Saturday, Nov. 8, at noon. The free community event, hosted by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation in partnership with Walk Charles County, offers participants a chance to explore the vibrant colors, wildlife, and history that make Mallows Bay one of the area's most extraordinary landscapes.
Located along the Potomac River in Nanjemoy, Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary is home to a "ghost fleet" of more than 100 historic shipwrecks surrounded by wetlands and wooded trails rich with native flora and fauna. The 2.5-mile guided trek will highlight the sanctuary's maritime heritage and its role as a thriving ecosystem
The Southern Maryland Audubon Society is also joining the event and will have loaner binoculars available for participants. The organization encourages the public to get outside, enjoy nature, and learn more about the sanctuary's diverse habitats -- no registration required, just show up and take part.
The hike also coincides with the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation's 25th anniversary. For a quarter century, the foundation has championed species conservation, habitat restoration, cultural and maritime heritage preservation, and scientific innovation across America's national marine sanctuaries and monuments. From coral restoration in the Florida Keys to whale research in Monterey Bay -- and now local partnerships at Mallows Bay -- the foundation continues to connect communities with the waters that sustain them.
This hike represents that mission on a local scale, giving residents an opportunity to see firsthand how national and community stewardship come together in Southern Maryland.
The trail at Mallows Bay Park (1440 Wilson Landing Rd., Nanjemoy, Md.) features packed dirt paths and moderate inclines. Participants are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
For more information about upcoming Walk Charles County events, visit charlescountymd.gov/walk.
To learn more about the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation and its 25 years of conservation leadership, visit marinesanctuary.org.
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