Near Paint Branch Trail
"Two roads diverged in a wood" and the one on the left headed back to Route 1 while the one on the right continued toward the University of Maryland and Lake Artemesia.
Near Paint Branch Trail
The sun sets over the bridge by the Mazza Grandmarc Apartments.
Near Paint Branch Trail
Winter weather leaves a blanket of snow on the trail in March.
Near Paint Branch Trail
Crossing over the Paint Branch Tributary, take time to enjoy your beautiful surroundings.
Near Paint Branch Trail
Many ducks can often be found along the Paint Branch Trail.

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Paint Branch Trail

5.0 (4 Ratings)
An enjoyable hike along the Paint Branch Trail.
3.9
mi
Distance
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
BirdingDogs AllowedFall ColorsFamily FriendlyLess CrowdedSpringWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
The trail is open 24/7 although care should be taken at night as there are no lights or lampposts along the trail.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.93mi
Distance
0ft
Elevation Gain
84ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
134ft
High Point
44ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This trail is a great way to get away from the business of College Park and escape into the woods. For the most part, you'll be alone in nature with the cars on Route 1 and University Blvd only faint noises in the background. The trail heads along the north end next to the Mazza Grandmarc apartment complex near Route 1 and Hollywood heading south to Route 1 and Greenbelt Rd. You'll frequently see a few other travelers along your way from runners to walkers to cyclist to dog owners. Starting from the north end, you'll pass over a wooden bridge then turn left. From here, you'll cross over the Paint Branch tributary multiple times. After this you'll have the Paint Branch golf course on your left. Once you turn left to head on a decently long stretch headed eastward, look to your left, and there will be an amazing portion of wetlands with frogs, ducks, and birds. From there, you'll head south for a bit then east again to cross under University Blvd. Coming up on your right will be a park and past this, another access point. From here, the trail continues further south and east, heading toward College Park Estates and Greenbelt Park where you can connect to other trails in the area.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Perimeter Trail

Hike Route

Perimeter Trail

Birding
moderate
5.21 mi
+367 ft
Fairland Recreation Park

Hike Route

Fairland Recreation Park

River/Creek
moderate
8.28 mi
+702 ft
Rock Creek Valley Loop

Hike Route

Rock Creek Valley Loop

Fall Colors
easy
1.27 mi
+15 ft
Valley Trail - Entire Length

Hike Route

Valley Trail - Entire Length

Birding
moderate
5.3 mi
+481 ft
North Rock Creek Park 5K Loop

Hike Route

North Rock Creek Park 5K Loop

moderate
3.12 mi
+259 ft
National Arboretum Figure-Eight

Hike Route

National Arboretum Figure-Eight

Birding
easy
2.18 mi
+183 ft
Contributors
Nicole Crisp