Nature Trails You Need To Check Out

If you're looking for a fun activity this summer I have a few nature trails to check out for some fun in the sun!

One of my favorite things to do on a beautiful summer day is to go on a hike with friends. It's a great way to stay active and get a good tan at the same time. Also it's a great way to catch up with friends and spend the day outside. This is also a great way to stay active while we're waiting for the gyms to open back up! In this post I've listed four trails for you guys to check out this summer and get your inner explorer on! I've included my two favorite trials to go on as well as two trails I'm excited to go explore this summer.

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Richard M. Nixon County Park and Nature Center

This park offers something for every nature lover. The park has a nature center inside where kids can learn about their environment and animals. As well as a great spot to rest in the cool indoors after a hike in the sun on a hot day. They also have benches outside in shaded areas which are great for watching the animals run around while eating a snack. They have several different trails to explore which is my favorite part about the park. Some of the trails are short or than others which is great depending on how much walking you want to do that day. My favorite thing to do is take multiple trails and make a afternoon out of it. Another great part of having different trails to take is that they incorporate different parts of nature. They have trails in wooded areas and trails that take you through meadows and fields. My favorite trails are the ones by the streams. Nixon park is great for a day with friends and family but, they do ask you don't bring pets with you since they have a lot of wild animal activity.

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Northern Central Railroad Trail (NCR)

The NCR trail is probably my favorite walking trails to go on in the summer through early fall! They have several parking lot locations where you can jump on the trail. On very sunny days this trail is great because most of the trail is shaded by trees. I start at the location in Freeland, MD where the MD side starts and the PA side ends. The railroad trail runs through Maryland and Pennsylvania. The NCR trail leads into the York County Heritage trail (YCH). My favorite stop on the trail is in New Freedom, PA at the Rail Trail Cafe. It's this cute little cafe you can stop at or they have parking close by that you can stop for lunch and then jump on the trail. If you follow the trail into Maryland the trail runs along side Gunpower Falls River. They have a general store located in Monkton along the trail in MD, as well! The trail is open to pets, bikers, and horse riding!

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Mill Creek Falls

I have just recently learned about this trail and I've added to my must visit list this summer! I've read that the trail is a quick five minute walk from the parking lot to the falls! This is great for a pit stop to make or you can easily make it an all day adventure by visiting another trail close by. The parking lot is just a 3 minute drive to Lock 12 which is a preserved Susquehanna and Tidewater canal. The falls are also close by the Blue-Blazed Mason-Dixon trial. I'm so exited to venture out to these trails this summer and make them a regular part of my summers!

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The King and Queen Seat

This magnificent rock formation is located in the Rocks State Park in Jarrettsville, MD. Zach told me about this place after he went with some friends and I'm hoping to make a trip myself soon! The legend is that this was a gathering place for Susquehannock Indians but, they haven't found any evidence to support the legend. The rock formation is located above deer creek and I can only imagine how beautiful that must be! There are three trails you can take to get to the King and queen seat. For those more skilled hikers the park allows you to climb the rock! They do suggest to take a rock climbing class first before attempting. I've also read that dogs are allowed at the park!

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There is nothing better on a sunny day off from work than a trip to a park or nature trail to spend the day! The most important thing to remember when going on a hike is to wear sunscreen and bug spray! I even bring more with me to reapply when I know I'll be there for several hours. Also bring plenty of water with you on your walk! Make sure to check out at least one of these trails this summer or take a trip out to your favorite places. Comment below some of your favorite parks, nature trails, or rock climbing locations! Happy Hiking!