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Patuxent River State Park & Freedman’s State Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 209 Google reviews · Running trail in Brookeville, Maryland · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- 3.5 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Patuxent River State Park & Freedman’s State Park'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.
Family-friendly terrain with pine forests, bamboo and a nature center plus picnic tables.
What runners say about Patuxent River State Park & Freedman’s State Park
“Blue and white mini loops are less well maintained but still very approachable.”
“Beautiful area, multiple hiking trails, easy hike, with water views, can be muddy, pets friendly, need to keep on leash, some paths are shared horse trails.”
“It was a good experience in comparison to many other parks in Montgomery county since it was very scarcely populated and when you got further into the park it was peaceful.”
“Beautiful area, multiple hiking trails, easy hike, with water views, can be muddy, pets friendly, need to keep on leash, some paths are shared horse trails.”
We enjoyed the beautiful bamboo grove by the river at the nature center picnic area. A hike along the Flowing Free Trail (yellow blaze trail) took us through diverse ecosystems.
Great shaded trail, but no viewpoints along the 3.5 mile loop. Blue and white mini loops are less well maintained but still very approachable. Flat nature trail without any steep in/decline or rock scrambling. A couple of SMALL water crossings. The trail was pretty dry despite it having rained recently.
We explored Patuxent River State Park in winter with the kids and had a peaceful yet adventurous hike. The trails were quiet, and the bare trees gave us some great open views of the river and surrounding woods. What We Loved: Serene & Less Crowded – The park felt like a hidden gem in winter, with very few other hikers.
The reason for the visit was to get out of the city for a moment. The walk was on a dirt path, this was refreshing. The old building was still in perfect condition. I enjoyed my long nature walk with my dog. On our walk we realized there were horse trails too!
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful area, multiple hiking trails, easy hike, with water views, can be muddy, pets friendly, need to keep on leash, some paths are shared horse trails.”
“It was a good experience in comparison to many other parks in Montgomery county since it was very scarcely populated and when you got further into the park it was peaceful.”
“Beautiful area, multiple hiking trails, easy hike, with water views, can be muddy, pets friendly, need to keep on leash, some paths are shared horse trails.”
“Trouble is, I've never checked to see if the flowing something trails is a loop, so I end up walking it for an hour, the turning around and retracting my steps”
“Beautiful area, multiple hiking trails, easy hike, with water views, can be muddy, pets friendly, need to keep on leash, some paths are shared horse trails.”
“Such a great hiking spot, chill, vibrant, lively with flat open areas for kids to explore.”
“There is a single stall restroom available at the start of the trail and a picnic area near the historic house.”
“Picnic tables, benches, ample parking, nice trails, and composting(?”
“Great, easy hike with well marked, well maintained trails.”
Plan your run at Patuxent River State Park & Freedman’s State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Loop distance3.5 mi back to where you parked
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitednr.maryland.gov
- Phone(301) 924-2127
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM–8 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–8 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–8 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–8 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–8 PM |
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