You’ve all seen the old radio towers that line Greenbury Point, just across the mouth of the Severn River from Annapolis. But did you know you can visit them in person?
Quick Look at Greenbury Point Park
Address: Bullard Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401
Restrooms: None
Website: navymwrannapolis.com
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
Pets: Yes
Exploring the trail
The Navy owns and operates the 231-acre nature preserve on Greenbury Point, which features a sand and gravel path around the peninsula that winds through wooded areas, as well as open fields around the base of the three towers. You can also pop off the trail at several spots to glimpse a great view of Annapolis to the west, and on the other side, views of the Bay Bridge and Whitehall Bay. You’ll be able to catch glimpses of ospreys, herons and other birds, and a lot of butterflies.
Kids will love the Poet’s Nature Trail, which you can pick up just outside the Nature Center, along the trail there are signs describing the flora and fauna you’re seeing along the way. There is a small wooden observation stand that faces Carr Creek where you can sit for a few minutes and do some birdwatching.
Continue along the outer trail for some outstanding views of the Naval Academy and downtown Annapolis. At points along the trail you will also see remnants of some of the old tower bases. Nineteen towers once stood on the point, until all but three were demolished in 1999. You’ll also see the gigantic remnants of an old Trident seal laying on the ground.
Know Before You Go
You’ll need to take a bit of precaution before you head out. The peninsula is also home to Naval firing range drills, so call ahead before you go to make sure the trails are open. You can find out if the trails are open on any given day by calling 410-293-9304. A daily recording will tell you if the trails are open. You can also follow Naval Support Activity Annapolis (NSAA) on Twitter @NSAAnnapolis.
If the trails are open, you can park at either the Nature Center lot or the open lot just after the Center. There are gates that are almost always closed, one entry just beyond the parking lot and the other by the Nature Center. As long as you have checked that the trails are open, you can head behind the gates by skirting behind the wooden fences alongside.
To get to Greenbury Point, take Greenbury Point Road past the Naval Exchange, golf course and Naval Academy Primary School. Shortly after the school, the road will dead end at a parking lot, where you can park and head off to the trails!
-Ann Levelle
Looking for more fun parks to explore? See our collection of Park Spotlights for great places to experience nature.