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Into the Woods! Eight Maryland hikes perfect for families By Karen Stysley
B
rigid Wethington doesn’t go easy on her kids—at
Perimeter Trail, Kinder Farm Park, Millersville
least where hiking is concerned. When the Columbia
Kids flock to Kinder Farm Park for the farm animals and the huge
resident takes her daughter, 7, and her son, almost
multi-level playground, part of which is shaded. Use these draws
4, on hikes in the Maryland area, they may find
as an incentive to finish the paved 2.8-mile perimeter trail that goes
themselves going over a suspension bridge and under a tunnel
around the park (or one of a number of nearby trails). The park also
before climbing up to a boulder at the edge of a big drop.
features picnic tables, grills and two large rentable pavilions for
“I tend to push my kids a little bit on what they can do,”
larger groups. It also has wonderful old farm building to check out
Wethington says. But along the way, they get more than just a
as well as farming artifacts at the visitor center.
workout and some pretty views. Out there without their technology,
Trail Length: 2.3 mile, paved
relying on each other for help, they get a “little mini vacation,” she
Fees: Daily vehicle fees start at $6 (cash or check).
says, since “hiking is definitely a bonding moment.”
Pets: Leashed dogs welcomed.
While rising to the challenge, Wethington, her husband, and their kids learn to encourage each other and keep each other safe. “As a family it’s just something we do. We all enjoy it. We all feel
Lake Trail, Centennial Park, Columbia The picturesque Centennial Lake is almost always in the backdrop
connected when we get in the car [after a hike]. We’re all on the
of the 2.4 mile paved loop trail that winds around it. Look out for
same team, team Wethington,” she says.
geese, check out two big playgrounds, or even rent a boat as part of your trip around the trail. The park also has many other
20 • BIG BOOK FOR FAMILIES 2022 • ChesapeakeFamily.com
