18 Lake Needwood

I have been traveling to other states to see the fall foliage this autumn, and suddenly, when I came home, I realized the best display was right in my own backyard.

On a quiet early morning, everything was still, and to my surprise, the long-absent geese were enjoying themselves on this autumn day!  I hope you are going out and exploring your neighborhood! 

Lake Needwood is a reservoir located in Rockville, Maryland, within Montgomery County. It is a man-made lake that was created in 1965 by impounding Rock Creek, primarily for the purpose of providing drinking water to the city of Rockville. Over the years, it has also become a popular recreational area for both residents and visitors.

Lake Needwood is a popular spot for outdoor recreation. It offers opportunities for activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. There are several picnic areas and a playground, making it a great place for family outings and gatherings.

The lake allows non-motorized boating, such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. You can bring your own equipment or rent boats on-site during the warmer months.

Lake Needwood is known for its fishing opportunities. Anglers can find a variety of fish species, including bass, bluegill, catfish, and more. It's a great place for both novice and experienced fishermen.

The lake is surrounded by a network of scenic trails that are popular for hiking, running, and birdwatching. The Rock Creek Trail and the Lake Needwood Trail are among the most frequented.

17 Hagerstown City Park and Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

My unplanned visit to Hagerstown on a beautiful fall day allow me to discover a hidden gem:  Hagerstown City Park and Washington County Museum of Fine Arts (I was on the way to visit West Virginia and decided to take a detour to see Hagerstown. Boy, I am so glad I did!).

Located in Hagerstown, Maryland. Hagerstown City Park is a popular recreational area that offers a variety of amenities and attractions for both locals and visitors to enjoy. The park is known for its scenic beauty, including a picturesque pond with waterfowl. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, picnicking, and birdwatching. The paved pathways make it a great place for leisurely strolls.

The park is home to the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, which is an integral part of the park and a cultural gem in Hagerstown. The admission is always free.

Washington County Museum of Fine Arts houses a diverse collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and more. The collection spans various time periods and artistic styles, making it an appealing destination for art lovers. One of the special exhibit I enjoyed most is the dresses designed by Claire Mccardell who is considered the pioneer of American Fashion.  Also, "the Treasures of State, Maryland's Art Collection" is one of kind and especial for someone live in the state of Maryland".

Hagerstown City Park 

Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

Claire Mccardell's dress  collection

A Portrait of George Washington, America's first president

Maryland flag consists of 74,592 beads and was created by Bearclaw, of the Cherokee Nation, from Harford County.

The Council of War, by John Rogers:  President Lincoln (center) is reading a map of the Overland Campaign of 1864. On the left is General Ulysses S. Grant and to the right is Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War.\

16 Lake Frank

Lake Frank is a scenic reservoir located in Montgomery County, Maryland, United States. It is situated within the 540-acre Rock Creek Regional Park, which is part of the larger Montgomery Parks system managed by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). Lake Frank is a popular destination for outdoor lovers.

This lake is good for hiking year around.  Here are some of the photos taking hiking the trail around the lake in October.  I hope those photos give you a glimpse of the trail's beauty. The hike is of moderate difficulty, suitable for those with basic hiking experience. Sturdy walking or hiking shoes are recommended for this outing. Be mindful of your footing, especially as fallen leaves may conceal uneven terrain. My hike at Lake Frank was thoroughly enjoyable, and I'm confident you'll have a great time too! Here are some photos from my hike: (Enjoy!)