Discover the Serenity of Lake Elkhorn Park
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Lake Elkhorn Park, a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts in Columbia, Maryland.
A brief summary to Lake Elkhorn Park
- Parking lot, Patuxent Branch Trail, Columbia, Owen Brown, Maryland, 21045, US
- +1410-715-3000
- Visit website
Lake Elkhorn Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Columbia, Maryland. This expansive park features a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and well-maintained walking and biking trails, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and recreation. Visitors can stroll along the tranquil paths that wind around the lake, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. The park is particularly beautiful during the fall when vibrant leaves create a picturesque backdrop for photos. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of bird species that can be spotted here, making it a popular location for birdwatching. In addition to its scenic beauty, Lake Elkhorn Park offers various amenities for guests. There is a small pavilion where families and friends can gather for picnics or simply take a break from their outdoor activities. The park is also a gateway to the Patuxent Branch Trail, providing access to further exploration of the surrounding natural areas. Whether you are looking to enjoy a leisurely day by the water or engage in more active pursuits such as jogging or cycling, Lake Elkhorn Park caters to all types of visitors. For those planning a visit, be sure to bring your camera and take advantage of the stunning views the park has to offer. The peaceful atmosphere combined with the beauty of the natural surroundings makes Lake Elkhorn Park a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in the area.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to catch a glimpse of local wildlife.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at the small pavilion, perfect for a family outing.
- Don’t forget your camera; the scenery is breathtaking, especially during the fall season.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant outdoor experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From Merriweather Post Pavilion, exit the main entrance and head toward the main road, Broken Land Parkway. Walk north for about 0.5 miles (approximately 10-15 minutes). Once you reach the intersection with Little Patuxent Parkway, cross to the other side and continue walking straight. You will see signs for Lake Elkhorn Park along the way. After about 0.3 miles (approximately 5-7 minutes), turn left onto the Patuxent Branch Trail, which leads directly to the park entrance.
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Biking
If you have a bike or can rent one from a nearby rental service, you can use the bike lanes available on Broken Land Parkway. Start from Merriweather Post Pavilion and head north on Broken Land Parkway. Turn left onto Little Patuxent Parkway and follow the bike path towards Lake Elkhorn Park. The ride typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your speed. Ensure you have a helmet and follow all traffic rules.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
To take public transportation from Merriweather Post Pavilion, walk to the nearest bus stop located on Broken Land Parkway (approximately a 5-minute walk from the pavilion). Board the Howard County Transit Bus Route 104 heading towards the Columbia Mall. The bus fare is $1.00, and you can pay using exact change or a transit card. Get off at the stop near the intersection of Little Patuxent Parkway and South Wind Circle (approximately 5-10 minutes ride). From there, it's a short walk (about 0.2 miles) to Lake Elkhorn Park. Follow the signs leading you to the park entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Lake Elkhorn Park
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Black Flag Brewing Company
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Stumpy's Hatchet House
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Sky Zone Trampoline Park
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Color Burst Park
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Toby's Dinner Theatre
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Symphony Woods Park
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Blandair Regional Park West Playground
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Breakout Games - Baltimore (Columbia)
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Holiday Hills Park
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Merriweather Post Pavilion
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Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods
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Kittamaqundi Fountain
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African Art Museum of Maryland (AAMM)
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DoodleHATCH Interactive Art Museum
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Lake Kittamqundi
Landmarks nearby to Lake Elkhorn Park
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Lost Ark Distilling Company
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Oversea Distillery
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Snowden Square S.C.
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Busboys and Poets - Columbia
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Columbia Ice Rink
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Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que
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Blackwall Barn & Lodge Columbia
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Merriweather District
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Columbia Crossing
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Merriweather Post Pavilion Parking - Lot #5
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Union Jack's Columbia
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Merriweather Post Pavillion Parking - Lot #6
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Merriweather Post Pavilion Parking - Lot #1
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Downtown Columbia
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Mall in Columbia - Maple Overflow