Special programs Make a Wish at a Water Fountain United States Post Offices

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Event comments

Fee for IVV credit on non-IVV credit is $3. Children 12 and under bike free (credit included) courtesy of Freestate Happy Wanderers. The IHRT was a generous gift through the Department of the Interior's Federal Lands to Parks Program. This 13 mile paved trail traverses approximately halfway across Charles County, connecting the Town of Indian Head to Rt. 301 in White Plains. Originally built in 1918 as a railroad supply route for the Navy's Indian Head Powder Factory, this elevated rail bed passes through the Mattawoman Creek stream valley and some of Southern Maryland's most scenic and undeveloped natural areas. The Indian Head trail starts off in a slightly urban setting, but almost immediately the environment changes. Volksbikers will experience the surroundings of mature forests, natural wetlands and occasional farmland. Flora, fauna and wildlife abound. With great consistency bikers can expect to view wild turkey, deer, herons, bald eagles, egrets and a variety of waterfowl. One particular area (near mile marker 2) offers a spectacular view of the backwaters of Mattawoman Creek as it meanders its way towards the Potomac River. If it's wildflowers, butterflies or dragonflies that grab your fancy, the trail's 100' wide corridor presents an outstanding habitat for nature's subtle and graceful beauty. Trail features numerous bridges, interpretative signs and rest area benches. Located just 18 miles south of our Nation's Capital, the Indian Head Rail Trail offers a unique natural outdoor experience - seemingly far removed from development and life's often chaotic pace.

Rating: 1A, Distance: 25, 42km

Event information

Bike trail is out-and-back along Mattawoman Creek on the Indian Head Rails to Trails (IHRT) with trail starting in either Indian Head or White Plains, MD. Bikers are invited to call POC a day or two before, for latest park notices and trail conditions. BE SURE TO BRING YOUR OWN WATER!

Awards: 'A' Award available

Driving to the start box

3165 Marshall Hall Road. See directions for Indian Creek walk (Y 0129). Drive to bike start point is 5.5 miles to Indian Head Trail Head or 9.4 miles to White Plains Trail Head. Start point is open from 6 AM to 10 PM. Please bike only during daylight hours.

Maps phrase and directions link

The address / location has not been set.

Freestate Happy Wanderers (AVA-0190)

Click inside the box to send an email to the POC.