News Release
NPS | Nicole Phillips
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Contact: Jennifer Wampler, Partnerships Coordinator
LEONARDTOWN, Md. – The National Park Service invites the public to a community meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 15, to share ideas and help shape the future of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in Southern Maryland.
The meeting runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Leonardtown Library, 23630 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown, MD 20650, and is open to everyone.
Participants will learn about opportunities to hike, bike, fish, paddle, ride horses, and explore along the trail’s 900-mile network. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail stretches through Southern Maryland, Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., Western Maryland, and Pennsylvania, connecting people to history, nature, and recreation.
“This is a chance for anyone who cares about trails, outdoor fun, and community life to get involved,” said Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Superintendent Jeri L. DeYoung. “The trail belongs to all of us, and your voice matters as we look to its future."
What participants can expect
- Give feedback on how to make the trail safer, easier to find, and more enjoyable.
- Learn about outdoor opportunities in St. Mary’s, Charles, and Prince George’s counties.
- Network with local partners working to grow recreation and tourism in the region.
- Enjoy the setting in historic St. Mary’s County, with plenty to explore nearby after the meeting.
The meeting is part of a year-long roundtable series across the region and marks the final 2025 event.
The planning team includes the Tri-County Council, Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, Accokeek Foundation, Charles County, St. Mary’s County, Visit St. Mary’s MD, Prince George’s County, Southern Maryland Active Recreation and Transport Alliance, Maryland Dept. Of Transportation, Maryland Dept. Of Natural Resources, and the National Park Service.
How to join
- Date: Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025
- Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Location: Leonardtown Library, 23630 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown, MD 20650
- Register here: 2025 Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Southern Maryland Community Meeting
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ABOUT THE POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is more than 900 miles of connected paths that link communities and landscapes across Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia. From the mouth of the Potomac River to the Allegheny Highlands, this trail network gives residents and visitors opportunities to walk, bike, and explore history, culture, and nature right in their own backyards.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s more than 430 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook.
Last updated: September 24, 2025