#OptOutside
#OptOutside was started in 2015 by the Outdoor Retailer REI in an effort to encourage people to spend Black Friday enjoying nature rather than shopping. Some Maryland parks have scheduled hikes. And we’ve listed some parks that are perfect for spending the day outdoors.
November 29: Opt Outside Black Friday Hike – McKeldin 9-11:30 a.m.
McKeldin Area, Shelter 576, 11676 Marriottsville Rd, Marriottsville
Looking to escape the Black Friday crowds? Opt to be outside and join park staff as we get some fresh air and enjoy a scenic hike in the McKeldin Area of Patapsco Valley State Park! Hike will be on the Rapids Trail, approximately 2 miles total, rated moderate due to uneven terrain. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Limited to 20 participants. Signup encouraged. Shine only.
November 29: Opt Outside Black Friday Hike – Avalon 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Lost Lake Parking Lot, 5120 South St, Halethorpe
Looking to escape the Black Friday crowds? Opt to be outside and join park staff for some fresh air and a scenic hike along the Patapsco River. Hike the approximate 3.5 miles total from Lost Lake to the Swinging Bridge on the easy/beginner Grist Mill Trail. Limited to 20 participants. Signup encouraged. Rain or shine.
November 29: #OptOutside Black Friday Collaborative Hike
Burke Lake Park, 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. 10 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
This is a 4.8 mile beginner/intermediate hike along the perimeter of Burke Lake. Afterwhich we will assemble in the parking lot for networking, light snacks and hot drinks. Make sure you bring your day pack with trail snacks and water and dress for the weather.
This in-person event encourages you to #OptOutside and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors with people of color. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, this collaborative hike aims to bring people together for a day of exploration and fun.
November 29: Opt Out for an Adult Nature Hike
Irvine Nature Center, 11201 Garrison Forest Rd, Owings Mills. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Instead of shopping, choose nature and fresh air with Naturalist Clare. On this hike we will explore some of the less known trails at Irvine as the seasons change. Notice how plants and animals are preparing for the cold weather of winter. Learn some of the history of this land that has shaped the habitats we see today. Dress for the weather with good shoes. This program is intended for adults.
Instructor: Dr. Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Cost: $10 per participant
Register HERE
Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC)
https://serc.si.edu/visit
647 Contees Wharf Road, Edgewater
Starting this November, SERC is open to visitors on Sundays too! If you’re an afternoon hiker, be sure to keep a close eye on time: 4:30pm, now that darkness is coming sooner.
New Fall Visiting Hours: Monday – Sunday 8am – 4:30 pm.
Hike the trails on a Sunday, or even Thanksgiving day. SERC is now open 7 days a week. And only closed on Christmas, New Year’s Day and occasional Saturdays for our winter forest management.
We love animals, but we ask that you leave your pets at home because we are an active research facility and a wildlife sanctuary.
Other places to #OptOutside
Beverly-Triton Nature Park
1202 Triton Beach Road, Edgewater
Beverly Triton Nature Park is a hidden gem with a beach and hiking trails at the end of the Mayo Peninsula in Edgewater. Situated at the intersection of the South and Rhodes Rivers, a beautiful natural beach opens up to views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Flag Ponds Nature Park
1525 Flag Ponds Parkway Lusby
Flag Ponds Nature Park, located in Lusby, has a variety of terrain on over 500 acres that is great for exploration and fossil hunting. A beautiful beach, hiking trails, and a Visitor’s Center with wildlife displays and observation platforms offer visitors plenty of options for a lovely day at Flag Ponds.
U.S. National Arboretum
3501 New York Avenue NE, Washington, D.C.
Discover the U.S. National Arboretum – a breathtaking oasis for visitors of all ages! Wander through stunning gardens, marvel at vibrant blooms, and explore enchanting wooded trails.
