Get Out: Hot Outdoor Spots For Warm Weather

Today’s Get Out is all about what fun you can have outdoors. You might have to travel a bit for some of these adventures, but what’s better than a road trip on a beautiful summer day?

1. Kayaking on the Pocomoke

Where/When: Snow Hill, MD / Summer (call for specific times)

Why Go: The Pocomoke River Canoe Company offers canoe and kayak rentals and ports. There’s also a little store where you can buy all your boating gear. It’s really worth the jaunt out to Snow Hill. If you pack three people in your canoe you can get going pretty fast down the twisting, winding, reedy river. Take lots of water and sunscreen though because it gets really hot and sunny really fast without any shade for cover.

Price: The 2010 rates are still up, but you can call for current rates.

2. Fishing along the Patuxent

Where/When: Queen Anne Fishing Area / Fishing area open from 8 a.m. to dusk daily

Why Go: This fishing hole is located in what was once Queen Anne, a colonial town dating back to 1706. It was a major river crossing from Southern Maryland to Annapolis. The old bridge is closed to fishing, and anglers are allowed to fish along the banks. The river is tidal, so a Chesapeake Bay sport fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older.

Price: Free

3. Camping in the Shenandoah Valley

Where/When: The Country Place, Inc. / 100 Fort Liscomb Road, Luray, VA

Why Go: Chill out in a Jacuzzi, retreat to the quiet woods or grab a massage at a nearby Victorian inn. You can also stay in a tree house 20 feet above the river for even more remote relaxation. This place has it all.

Price: Rates vary but you can check them all out here. Some discounts are available.

4. Hiking in Rock Creek Park

Where/When: The Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium: 5200 Glover Road NW, Washington, D.C. near the intersection of Military Road and Glover Road / Park open during daylight. Hours for buildings posted here.

Why Go: Check out ranger-led interpretive programs, bicycling and hiking trails winding through the beautiful forest in the nation’s capital. There are also bridle paths for those who prefer to voyage by beast.

Price: Check out the website for fees and registration information.

5. Swimming With Dog

Where/When: Downs Park Dog Beach, 8311 John Downs Loop
Pasadena / Open every day but Tuesday

Why Go: Great place to run and romp with your furry friend and even take him for a dip in the water. He’ll also love wind surfing out the window of your car as you drive up to Anne Arundel County.

Price: $6 to park. Other fees here.