Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary: A Moderate 6 or 8.5 Mile Hike

Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary: A Moderate 6 or 8.5 Mile Hike

During the winter, the Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary boasts the largest concentration of Canada geese on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. The surrounding fields, which grow crops and hay in season, transform into a haven for these majestic birds throughout the colder months. This unique ecological setting offers hikers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in a variety of habitats.

While Canada geese are the primary attraction during winter, the Sanctuary's diverse habitats also support other bird species, such as ospreys near the river. The ever-changing movement of the geese ensures that no two hikes are the same, offering a dynamic birdwatching experience.

Our hike will traverse a diverse landscape, including streams, marshes, ponds, open fields, and wooden trails. One of the highlights is the observation tower, which grants sweeping views of the expansive wetland areas along the Patuxent River.

The hike is approximately 8.5 miles. This route includes the observation tower and follows the shore of the Patuxent River. There is a shorter option of about 6 miles. This route excludes the observation tower providing a slightly less strenuous alternative while still covering a variety of habitats. The trails include forest roads, dirt trails, and sections of paved road, offering varied terrain suitable for most hiking abilities.

The 6-mile hike will end around 1:00. the 8.5 mile hike will end around 2:30.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00

Contact Information: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leaders are Christa (410-610-6254) and Tim (202-744-0289). Call or text as needed.

Directions to Trailhead:
The GPS Coordinates are 38.727, -76.70802
The Street address to the park is Merkle Natural Resources Management Area, 11704 Fenno Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. We meet at the visitor center parking lot.

Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 8.5 miles. Shorter version is 6 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 328 feet
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Portable Bathroom near parking lot while Visitor center is CLOSED

Fees:
There is no Park fee for this hike.

Cancellation:
In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

Weather:
The weather for this location can be found here.

Notes:
-Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike.
-Please do not show up unregistered.
-Please keep this a fragrance free event.
-To find out more about PATC, click here.
-Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, click here.