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Inspiration Lake Hiking Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 59 Google reviews · Running trail in Gaithersburg, Maryland · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Inspiration Lake Hiking Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Quiet area offering trails around lakes and a pond, plus birding.
What runners say about Inspiration Lake Hiking Trail
“It's a beautiful place with wildlife and paved paths that go around a few neighborhoods.”
“A lovely place to go for a walk, quiet and nice views.”
Currently, this place is my family's preferred recreation spot. Inspiration lake is picturesque, with amazing sunsets, and it is not too crowded. There are two paved paths around it. The one on the lower level is hidden among trees.
The short trail around the lake would be more enjoyable if it were not sub freezing temperature. Still glad I could explore the lake before restaurants open at 11 am.
Very quiet trail tucked away in the Kentland neighborhood; it is about a mile there is a segment that the trail breaks off and you will have to walk in the street but it is only for less than a quarter of a mile otherwise very tranquil and not noisy like at the Rio
Although it is pretty short the trail is very nice and relaxing. Well maintained asphalt paths through both shady and open spaces make trail available at any whether. Free parking available around nearby neighborhood.
Trail conditions & character
“It's a beautiful place with wildlife and paved paths that go around a few neighborhoods.”
“Inspiration lake is picturesque, with amazing sunsets, and it is not too crowded.”
“Well maintained asphalt paths through both shady and open spaces make trail available at any whether.”
Plan your run at Inspiration Lake Hiking Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Running trails near Gaithersburg
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Muddy Branch Greenway Trail trailhead
4.5 ★★★★★ 119 reviews
Natural-surface trail that's 9 miles long, allows dogs, and has sightings of wildlife.
Malcolm King Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 95 reviews
Well-maintained green space with trees, basketball courts and paved trails.
Seneca Ridge Trail at Riffle Ford Road
4.8 ★★★★★ 111 reviews
Hiking area featuring forest, creek crossings, and mountain biking opportunities.
Clopper Lake
4.7 ★★★★★ 124 reviews
Scenic state park with trails, picnic areas, and disc golf, plus kayak rentals.