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This nature sanctuary is a popular kayak-launching spot, but its many miles of creekside trails are a treasure for land-lovers as well.
Marshy Point Nature Center is 25 minutes northeast of Baltimore in Middle River, Maryland. Convenient from I-95 with lots of parking and miles of interconnected trails, it's a perfect spot for a quick hike or an all-day excursion.
The trails are mostly within the 1-2 mile range, but you can combine them to create a workout of your choosing. While mostly level and well-blazed, the trails vary from wide and paved, to overgrown and patchy (the latter are more fun anyway). You're never far from the Dundee or Saltpeter Creeks, where your pup can wade in and cool off. The forest here is full of new-growth, spindly little things, and you'll happen upon some cool, rusty artifacts if you keep your eyes peeled. Oh, and like most parks in the Atlantic Flyway, Marshy Point is heaven for birders and wildlife photographers.
The Center is also a nature sanctuary with a visitor's center worth your time. An owl, wild turkeys, and a small hawk were in outdoor runs for observation when I visited. This is an especially lovely park for children or those new to hiking.
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Follow the main entrance road down and to the right of the nature center to a turn around loop, where a car can be temporarily parked to unload/load boats onto the pier. You can launch canoes and kayaks on the end of the pier which goes directly out to Dundee Creek. From the launch site, paddlers can either go left, past the Osprey nesting platform and towards the top of the creek and marsh, or...
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