Even though we may be city folk, Washingtonians do love to enjoy their time in the outdoors! While you’re making your way around DC’s favorite outdoor spots this fall, we found a hidden gem that you might want to add to the list. Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary is an incredible outdoor nature reserve you will love visiting this fall.
Jug Bay is about 20 miles east of DC in Anne Arundel County. It’s home to 1,700 acres of open water, marshes, wetlands, creeks, forests and fields.
Instagram/jugbayws
Jug Bay is technically composed of different properties including Sanctuary Proper, Glendening Nature Preserve, Patuxent Wetland Park and Wootons Landing Wetland Park.
Facebook/Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
Each part of the park has its own unique beauty but they all feature gorgeous views and incredible nature.
Facebook/Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
There are over 15 miles of hiking trails and boardwalks that are perfect for exploring the different types of environments located in the Sanctuary. Most of the trails are flat so they are great for beginner hikers or casual strolls.
Facebook/Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
If you prefer to be closer to water, the boardwalks take you across marshes and over open water to the Patuxent River.
Flickr/shell game
In the warmer months, you can rent canoes or kayaks and explore the marshes and rivers up close.
Facebook/Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
There are several viewing platforms around the Sanctuary. Visitors can enjoy incredible views of the landscape and close up views of the wildlife in the area.
Flickr/David Heise
Speaking of wildlife, there is plenty to see at the Sanctuary. There are a variety of birds, otters, beavers, deer, turtles, snakes, muskrats and fish.
Facebook/Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is also a research center and employs a number of naturalists and volunteers to study environmental conditions in the area. The staff also hold guided hikes, activities and events for visitors to learn more about the environment and preserving the area.
Facebook/Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
Jug Bag is located at 1361 Wrighton Road in Lothian Maryland and is open year round. Hours differ depending on the season so you may want to check their website for more information. The cost is $6 per vehicle.
Facebook/Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
Whether you are interested in learning more about the environment, love exploring nature or want to see the fall colors somewhere outside of the city, you will love a visit to Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary.
Flickr/David Heise
Will you explore Jug Bay this fall? If you’ve already visited Jug Bay, then you may want to hike this lake that is absolutely gorgeous in the fall!
Instagram/jugbayws
Facebook/Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
Flickr/shell game
Flickr/David Heise
Flickr/David Heise
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
