Attractions and Places To See around North Laurel - Top 20

North Laurel offers a blend of natural landscapes. You can visit the Patuxent Research Refuge, a vast forested area covering 12,800 acres with diverse wildlife and trails around Lake Cash and Lake Redington. The Patuxent River forms the southern boundary of North Laurel, and the Little Patuxent River flows through the region, providing scenic walking and hiking opportunities. Additionally, Centennial Lake is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and fishing.

Yes, the area around North Laurel features diverse natural landscapes with wooded trails and paths along the Little Patuxent River. For specific routes, you can explore the hiking trails around North Laurel, which include easy options like the Savage Mill Trail and trails within Savage Park. The Patuxent Research Refuge also offers trails for exploration.

Cyclists can enjoy the roads winding through fields at the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, which offers a remarkably rural experience. Centennial Lake features a large paved path popular with cyclists. For more options, check out the road cycling routes around North Laurel, including loops around Lake Elkhorn and along the Little Patuxent River.

Absolutely. The Patuxent Research Refuge has a visitor center and trails suitable for families. Centennial Lake is also very family-friendly, offering a paved trail for walking and cycling, and opportunities for fishing. The North Laurel Park and Community Center provides a skate park, basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, and various programs for all ages. You can find more details about the community center at howardcountymd.gov.

The Patuxent Research Refuge is home to more than 1,100 species of plants and diverse wildlife. In fall and spring, huge flocks of migratory bird species can be seen above the forests, meadows, and wetlands. Keep an eye out for birds along the trails, especially around Lake Cash and Lake Redington.

While North Laurel itself is primarily residential, its history is connected to the broader Laurel area. Nearby, in the community of Savage, you can visit Historic Savage Mill, a beautifully restored 19th-century textile mill that now houses shops and restaurants. It also features the historic Bollman Truss Railroad Bridge, an early example of railroad engineering. You can also find the remains of an old bridge footing along the trails near the river.

North Laurel Park is a significant recreational hub featuring a 12,000-square-foot skate park, basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, a pavilion, and sports fields. The North Laurel Community Center, located within the park, offers a fitness room, gymnasium, game rooms, and various programs for all ages. More information can be found on the Howard County Recreation & Parks website: howardcountymd.gov.

Yes, the Patuxent Research Refuge is noted for being wheelchair accessible, offering opportunities for everyone to enjoy its natural beauty. Additionally, the paved trail around Centennial Lake is suitable for wheelchairs, providing an accessible route for walking and enjoying the lakeside scenery.

The outdoor attractions around North Laurel, particularly the natural areas and trails, are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall are ideal for observing migratory birds at the Patuxent Research Refuge and for comfortable hiking or cycling. Summer offers opportunities for lake activities at Centennial Lake, while winter can provide peaceful, crisp walks, though some trails might be muddy after rain.

Many of the trails in the North Laurel area, particularly those along the Little Patuxent River and within parks like Savage Park, are popular with dog walkers. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow local regulations regarding pet waste. Specific information on dog-friendly policies for individual parks can often be found on their respective websites.

Visitors appreciate the diverse outdoor opportunities, from the extensive natural beauty and wildlife observation at the Patuxent Research Refuge to the peaceful, paved paths around Centennial Lake. The area is valued for its blend of recreational facilities and access to natural landscapes, offering a rural feel surprisingly close to urban areas, making it great for hiking, cycling, and family outings.

The Fairland Skills Park offers more than nine miles of natural trails, many of which are fast and flowy. It's a great spot for mountain biking enthusiasts, featuring several technical challenges and a dedicated skills park suitable for riders of all skill levels.