We are fortunate to reside in a city that places great importance on parks, green spaces and maintaining a healthy environment for all. Gaithersburg boasts an impressive collection of 30 parks spanning 893 acres within its borders. Some of these parks may already be familiar to you, such as:

• Bohrer Park, which offers family friendly activities like mini-golf, a skate park and a water park.
• Kelley Park, featuring ballfields and a playground.
• Muddy Branch Park, situated along the border of the Lakelands community, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat, as well as miles of walking and biking trails.
• And let’s not forget the city’s newest treasure, Pleasant View Park, conveniently located at 10901 Darnestown Rd., near the intersection of Darnestown Road and Muddy Branch Rd.

Surprisingly, many individuals are unaware that they live within a mere 10-minute walk of a city park. And in some cases, a park or nearby trail may even run through their own backyard. The GPARC Alliance for Parks aims to better educate residents of the many outdoor options that are available in Gaithersburg.

Through the Explore! Gaithersburg Initiative, we are seeking volunteers from all corners of the city to assist us and the municipality in mapping out trails in all Gaithersburg Parks. These maps will be shared on the city’s website, ensuring that all Gaithersburg residents and visitors are aware of the location of their nearest parks and trails, and can easily access them.

In this endeavor, all three GPARC Alliances—the Parks Alliance, Arts and Culture Alliance and Recreation Alliance—are collaborating. As we map the trails, we are involving young artists in creating trail markers, developing fitness and recreational trails, showcasing scenic spots and natural features and incorporating a wide range of unique and fascinating points of interest on each park map. Additionally, our annual photo contest celebrates nature, arts and recreation in our parks.

We’d also love to see your park visits on social media. Tag us at @gparcmd on Facebook & Instagram and use the hashtag #GburgParks.

We would greatly appreciate your assistance! There are numerous ways to Explore! Gaithersburg. We would be delighted to hear your ideas and address any inquiries you may have. Simply reach out to us!