Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and bask in the serenity of nature at Patapsco Valley State Park. It encompasses 16,043 acres of wilderness along the Patapsco River and is nationally recognized for its grandeur and beauty. Recreational opportunities abound, with 170 miles of trails for hiking and biking, as well as eight developed recreational areas for barbequing and picnicking. Large groups can reserve one of the park’s many pavilions. Trails range from rugged to paved, accommodating a wide variety of hiking abilities. Kayaking, fishing, canoeing, camping, and horseback riding are also part of the many activities on the park’s agenda. Stop in at the Avalon Visitor Center located in a 19th century stone building to learn about the history of the area and see a replica of the 1930s forest warden’s office that once graced the park.

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Tom Godber