Summer is an ideal time for hikers to get out and explore the many trails and parks Montgomery County has to offer. But high summer temperatures can become dangerous for those not fully equipped to handle the hot sun.
To help beat the heat, Montgomery Parks is offering a series of Summer Shady Hikes to help hikers stay active during the summer heat.
There are four remaining hiking ventures throughout July and August, and each hour-long venture goes through a shady trail in different parks.
Montgomery Parks said the hikes aim to help new and veteran hikers get comfortable with the trails and encourage more physical activity.
“Whether you’re an experienced hiker or new to the activity, these summer evening hikes are a great opportunity for people to escape the heat and explore some of our beautiful, shaded trails,” said Nature on Wheels facilitator Alexandra Ralph. “And having the Nature on Wheels van there makes the hiking experience accessible to a wider range of people.”
Montgomery Parks said the Nature on Wheels mobile nature center will be at each park to provide seating, water, and an accessible bathroom. There will also be a park naturalist to lead each hike and teach hikers about the plants and animals within the parks.
All Summer Shady Hikes are from 6-7 p.m. and are planned at four different locations in Montgomery County:
Thursday, July 20 | Wheaton Regional Park | 2000 Shorefield Road, Wheaton
Tuesday, August 1 | Matthew Henson State Park | 13421 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring
Tuesday, August 8 | Potomac Horse Center | 14211 Quince Orchard Road, North Potomac
Tuesday, August 29 | Valley Mill Special Park | 1620 E. Randolph Road, Colesville
Those interested in participating can register here.