Vincent DiFilippo Nature Preserve — Attraction in Silver Spring Township

This 54 acre nature preserve is situated between a residential development and the Conodoguinet Creek. I found this place when I was looking for access points for the creek. The access point, by the way, is right by the parking lot, only good for non-motorized boats.

There is a loop trail that starts and ends at the parking lot.  There is a sign for the trail entrance.  If you vear left at any T-intersection, then you can achieve the maximum 1.9 mile walk back to the parking lot.  There are 2 intersections for a shorter cut if you make a right turn.

The trail surface is gravel and it's hard to walk (or even bike), so hiking boots are recommended. The second half of the trail by the creek is more weathered and much of the gravels have turn into crushed stones and you can appreciate how much easier it is for your feet.

Half way through at the far end of the loop trail is an eagle nesting area. I've seen many hardcore photographers staking out during my outings. The creek is generally not accessible for a closer look except by the concrete building and the small bridge.  In fact, there are signs everywhere to not go off trail.   There isn't much shade from the trees so avoid during a hot day.  There is one Porta John by the parking lot.

Overall, it is a well maintained nature preserve. It's great for a short walk. It's just not my kind of trail due to the gravels and...

This trail is a 2.9 mile gravel trail that part way takes you along the Creek where are you May be able to see Gray herons, egrets, turtles. Bald eagles have been known to nest in the trees over the years. There are some ponds within the preserve but they were covered with algae. Lots of weeds golden rod Queen Ann's lace but milkweed pods to help propagate more butterflies. They do spot-a-pot there, and 2 picnic tables and few benches along the trail. You are allowed to kayak in the Creek. It was a very peaceful place to walk. Strollers would have a tough time. I'm looking forward to seeing more improvements made within the preserve. Lots of dead and downed trees I would like to...

Beautiful day for a walk on Easter Sunday...really well maintained trails and dog friendly park... our pup is getting to be an old man so it was a short walk...my wife and walked here right after they opened the preserve...I think we'll be back during the week for our evening walks...very quiet and...