Matthew Henson State Park

Matthew Henson State Park is a nature reserve in Montgomery County featuring a network of trails with wooden boardwalks and hard surface paths. The area connects different routes and provides space for walking, biking, and outdoor recreation for all visitors.

The site was converted into a state park by Maryland's legislature in 1989 after residents requested preservation of the former facility. This transformation protected the land for public use and outdoor enjoyment.

The park bears the name of Matthew Henson, a Maryland native whose Arctic adventures shaped the identity of this green space. Walking through the trails, visitors connect with the story of exploration and discovery that inspired the park's creation.

The park is accessible from the Layhill Village parking lot and features wide, hard surface trails suitable for different users. The routes work well for walking and biking in most weather conditions.

The trail system includes solar-powered emergency phones placed at intervals along the routes for visitor safety. Additionally, specially designed boardwalks protect sensitive environmental areas from trampling and damage.

Location: Montgomery County

Inception: 2006

Operator: Maryland Departement of Recreation, Maryland Park Service

Website: https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/matthew-henson-state-stream-valley-park

GPS coordinates: 39.07790,-77.06470

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:22