Montgomery Explorers at Springsong!

Monday October 26, 2026 10am - 12pm

Join Montgomery Explorers and Springsong Museum on an hike along the Northwest Branch of the Ancostia River, starting at the future Springsong Museum site! Learn more about the museum’s progress and plans for the future.

Register on Active Montgomery

Montgomery Explorers – the organized walking club sponsored by Montgomery Parks, is designed for residents 50+ and better of all fitness levels and abilities, encourages participants to maintain a healthy way of life while exploring unique areas of our beautiful county.

Maximum Miles: 3.5 miles

Surface: Natural

Amenities No “official” bathrooms, but there are nearby shops

The narrow gorge requires a steep up and down hill section during the first .25 miles. At that point we get on the flat Northwest Trail, adjacent to the Northwest Branch (of the Anacostia River) until the 1.2-mile mark, directly underneath the Beltway. At that point the trail climbs again (to get around another narrow section) returning to the water at our turnaround point at the 1.7-mile point. If anyone chooses to continue, the trail becomes paved as it enters Prince George’s county, and stays paved until merging with the Sligo Creek trail, and eventually the Anacostia River trail.

For those who switch between boots and sneakers, this is “boots” walk. Walking sticks are also helpful if you use them. A couple of times we cross small side streams where rocks have been conveniently located (in lieu of bridges), and one large log also needs to be navigated. Hiking poles are recommended.