Home › Maryland › College Park › Lake Artemesia Natural Area
Lake Artemesia Natural Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,157 Google reviews · Running trail in College Park, Maryland · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Lake Artemesia Natural Area'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.
Picturesque park featuring a paved path running around a lake as well as fishing piers.
What runners say about Lake Artemesia Natural Area
“It's been awhile but the lake as always is well maintained, beautiful scenery and the occasional glimpse of fish in the pond, ducks, deer, etc.”
“It's been awhile but the lake as always is well maintained, beautiful scenery and the occasional glimpse of fish in the pond, ducks, deer, etc.”
“Perfect for walking, running, biking, or taking the dog out for a stroll.”
“Bird watchers were out enjoying the morning, which added a peaceful, communal vibe.”
Very nice place for a quiet walk. I came here for the first time on a Saturday morning (mid March) around 11am, and there were not too many people. The weather was around mid 60s. Many plants did not bloom yet. I can imagine it being very beautiful here later in spring and summer.
Lake Artemesia Natural Area is undoubtedly one of the best nature parks in Maryland. It’s so beautifullll with scenic views, This is nature at its best and a hidden gem. It has a walking/biking trail that’s about 2.4 miles. And also perfect for fishing.
My mom introduced me to this beautiful natural area. It features two lakes, a long walking path, playground, and restrooms. There's also some artwork, we saw a sculpture and mural. We didn't walk all the way around but you can definitely get your exercising in. Wonderful place!
Beautiful paved walking paths with restrooms in the middle. Links to other walking and biking paths as well. Nice flora along the paths - both trees and flowers with educational kiosks for learning. Many benches to sit and reflect too.
Trail conditions & character
“It's been awhile but the lake as always is well maintained, beautiful scenery and the occasional glimpse of fish in the pond, ducks, deer, etc.”
“I walked to the Paint Branch Trail and began my journey to Lake Artemesia from there, so I can’t comment on the parking situation others have mentioned.”
“Amenities are solid with restrooms, plenty of new park benches to sit and read or chat, a pedestrian bridge, and several trails branching off the main path.”
“Beautiful paved walking paths with restrooms in the middle.”
“Highly Recommend ♿️Wheelchair Accessible Entrance✅ ♿️Wheelchair Accessible Parking 🅿️ Adequate Parking Space ✅ 🚻Restroom”
“Bird watchers were out enjoying the morning, which added a peaceful, communal vibe.”
“72 miles from parking lot, around the outer perimeter of the lake and back to the parking lot so one loop is easy for even the most novice walker.”
Plan your run at Lake Artemesia Natural Area
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- 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.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitepgparks.com
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near College Park
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Indian Creek Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 186 reviews
Relaxed nature park with playground, trails and lake, plus fishing.
College Park Trolley Trail
Lake Artemesia Natural Area
4.9 ★★★★★ 174 reviews
Sunset themed park with a large lake that’s popular for leisurely hikes, fishing, bird-watching, and biking. It also has a playground.
Paint Branch Stream Valley Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 255 reviews
A neighborhood park with a stream, playground, baseball field, tennis courts & hiking trails.
Greenbelt Station Central Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 15 reviews
