Herring Creek Loop Trail: Tall Timbers Landing and Herring Creek

A wide variety of wildlife and beautiful vistas of Herring Creek and the Potomac River can be seen along this trail. Trail conditions and distances will vary depending on which route, creek or coves are explored. Be aware of powerboat traffic at marina openings and small channel crossings.

Distance: Approximately 1 – 10 miles depending on route taken

Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Experienced paddlers may continue onto the open waters of the Potomac River.

This trail features approximately 10 miles of shoreline with many finger creeks and tiny coves. Launch at Tall Timbers landing and head to the right. Paddle into the large channel heading toward Route 249 (cars will be visible in the distance). Look into the trees and along the shoreline of this remote section of Herring Creek for nesting herons. Paddle back into the calm waters of the inlets behind Piney Point Elementary School. Turtles, herons and other wildlife are abundant in this area. Follow the shoreline to exit this branch of the creek and head up the creek along the shores and farmlands on the right. There is a marina at the head of the creek. Be cautious – there could be a bit of boat traffic entering and exiting the marina. Continue along the miles of shoreline to the other finger creeks and inlets along the north side of Herring Creek. Paddle through the last finger creek and follow the shoreline to the very open side of Herring Creek. Enjoy the expansive beauty of Herring Creek and the jetties to the Potomac.

Tall Timbers Landing
GPS: 38 10′ 37.90″ N 76 32′ 49.26″ W
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Managed by: St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks
Amenities: Put in is easy at the sandy spot next to pier.

Directions: Drive south on Route 5 past Leonardtown and turn right onto Piney
Point Road / Route 249. Turn right onto Tall Timbers Road then turn right onto
Herring Creek Road and drive to the end.

Address: 18521 Herring Creek Road, Tall Timbers, MD 20690

 

Region: Southern Maryland
Activity: Birding, Paddling, Wildlife

Last updated: April 10, 2015

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
c/o Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
142 W. Potomac St.

Williamsport, MD 21795

Phone:

301-739-4200
This phone will reach the main line for the C&O Canal National Historical Park.

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