Watch the video below:
INDIAN HEAD, Md. — As Southern Marylanders start to enjoy consistent warm weather and the outdoor activities that come along with that, sometimes being outside can be as easy as going for a walk.
Luckily, the region has plenty of spots where locals can take a scenic walk and enjoy the views and the wildlife.
The Indian Head Boardwalk, officially called the Indian Head Riverwatch Upland and Riverwalk, is a picturesque walking path along the Potomac River in Charles County. The boardwalk is tucked back behind a housing development, and many residents are unaware it’s there or how to access it.
But if you do decide to spend some time on this walkway, you’ll be treated to incredible, panoramic views of the river and get some steps in. On our walk, we saw water snakes as well as several ospreys fishing in the water. And a couple of humans, too.
The boardwalk is just under half a mile, so it’s a nice, easy walk for most. Be advised that it doesn’t loop, so you’ll simply have to turn around and enjoy the whole thing over again to get back to where you started.
Here’s what you can expect if you visit the Indian Head boardwalk.
Getting There
You have to go through a community to access the boardwalk, so if you’re using a phone-based GPS, don’t get scared off when you start passing homes. You’ll go to the back of the development toward the woods.
Once you’re there, parking is extremely limited. Remember that this is a residential area and parking is for residents. There are only about 10 or so spaces, so if you’re going with friends, make sure you take one car if possible.
The entry is only a few minutes from downtown Indian Head, so it can be a quick detour once you’re comfortable finding the access point.
Woods Walk
There is a portion of the boardwalk that’s through the woods before you get to the river. This section is also beautiful, and you can enjoy the birdsong and forest scents if you’re into that sort of thing.
We did find it a little buggy on this section of the trail, so bug spray is recommended. The boardwalk has some ups and downs on this portion, and the boards aren’t quite as smooth and even as they are on the riverfront.
Riverfront Views
After about 1,200 feet, the woods portion ends and opens up to expansive river views that hit just right on a bright sunny day. We walked the boardwalk and enjoyed counting all the water snakes we spotted along the rocks.
Note that fishing is not allowed from the pier under any circumstances. There are benches along the boardwalk, too, for you to sit and enjoy the view. It’s truly the perfect place to connect with nature and have a conversation with a friend.
Like true Southern Marylanders, we love to get outside whenever we can. Let us know your favorite spots so we can check them out!
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
