Paint Branch Trail
About
Paint Branch Trail offers families a safe, paved pathway perfect for introducing young cyclists to trail riding or enjoying leisurely nature walks without worrying about traffic. This scenic multi-use trail winds through wooded areas connecting several parks, making it ideal for families who want to combine outdoor exercise with nature exploration in a peaceful setting.
Highlights
- ✓Smooth, paved surface ideal for strollers, training wheels, and beginner cyclists
- ✓Shaded wooded sections provide natural cooling on warm days
- ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including birds, squirrels, and occasional turtles
- ✓Connects to Lake Artemesia for extended outdoor adventures
- ✓Multiple access points make it easy to customize ride length for your family's abilities
Pro Tips
- 1.Access the trail from Lake Artemesia for convenient parking and easy restroom access before starting your ride
- 2.Bring bug spray during summer months as wooded sections can have mosquitoes, especially near water features
- 3.Pack a small backpack with water and snacks since there are limited facilities along the trail itself
- 4.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience - weekends can get busy with joggers and cyclists
- 5.Download an offline map as cell service can be spotty in heavily wooded sections
Best Time to Visit
Early mornings on weekends or weekday afternoons offer the best experience with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather and beautiful foliage, making the ride especially scenic without summer's heat or humidity.
What to Know
The trail is free to use with no admission fees. Parking is available at multiple connecting parks including Lake Artemesia and Indian Creek Trail. Bring your own food and drinks as there are no vendors directly on the trail.
Seasonal Notes
Spring brings blooming wildflowers and migrating birds, while fall offers stunning foliage. The trail is open year-round, though winter can bring icy conditions making biking unsafe. Summer visits are best done early morning to avoid peak heat and humidity.
Nearby Eats
The Yard in College Park offers family-friendly dining with outdoor seating and kid favorites like burgers and pizza, located just a short drive from trail access points. Busboys and Poets nearby features a welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu including plenty of options for picky eaters.
More Activities Near College Park
Lake Artemesia Natural Area
Lake Artemesia Natural Area is a peaceful 38-acre nature escape perfect for families who want to introduce kids to wildlife and outdoor exploration without venturing far from the city. With an accessible fishing pier, easy walking trails circling a scenic lake, a playground, and excellent opportunities to spot turtles sunbathing on logs and majestic herons wading in the shallows, it's an ideal spot for a low-key outdoor adventure that keeps even young children engaged.
Greenbelt Park
Greenbelt Park offers families a true National Park Service experience just minutes from Washington D.C., with over 1,100 acres of pristine forest perfect for introducing kids to hiking, camping, and nature exploration. This hidden gem features easy-to-moderate trails ideal for little legs, spacious picnic areas for family lunches, and a well-maintained campground that's perfect for first-time family campers who want a wilderness feel without venturing too far from civilization.
College Park Woods
College Park Woods offers families an accessible introduction to nature exploration right in the heart of College Park. The informal trail system winds through peaceful woodlands, making it ideal for short hiking adventures with little ones who are still building their stamina. It's a wonderful spot to teach kids about local wildlife, collect leaves, and let them experience the joy of discovering nature at their own pace.
Ritchie Park Elementary School
Ritchie Park Elementary School's community playground offers a welcoming neighborhood spot for families seeking casual outdoor play in College Park. With classic playground equipment, basketball courts, and plenty of open green space, it's perfect for burning energy after school or on weekends while keeping things simple and close to home.