We love a good ruins hike in Maryland. While some abandoned hikes in the Old Line State are more well known than others, the following hidden spot may be new to you. The best part is that this abandoned trek is less than a mile in length. In fact, it’s less than a half-mile in length! Read on, and add this easy, historic hike to your Maryland bucket list.
Ready to seek out the little known Simpsonville Mill in Maryland? You must start by entering Robinson Nature Center in Columbia.
Google Maps
Keep in mind that there is a fee to visit Robinson Nature Center ($5 for adults, $3 for children ages 3-17, and FREE for children under 3 years old). Annual passes are also available for Howard County residents, as well as non-Howard County residents.
Robinson Nature Center / Facebook
There is much to do at this Maryland nature center, including exploring the educational exhibits or even the planetarium inside. There is also plenty to see outside, and you especially won’t want to miss Annie’s Garden trail.
Ellen Schwenk Medlock / AllTrails
At only 0.3-miles in length, most people complete this short and sweet trek in fewer than ten minutes.
Dorothy Ortiz / Google
Eventually, you’ll approach the ruins of Simpsonville Mill, which dates back to the mid-1700s. This once-bustling mill is now a quiet place to reflect, and to admire the surrounding scenery.
Seamus M / AllTrails
There are No Trespassing signs, as well as a gate surrounding the ruins, so you can’t get too close.
Max Cheng (Max A. Cheng) / Google
But, that doesn’t mean you can’t snap some beautifully eerie photos. We love how the ruins become enveloped by weeds and vines during warmer months…
Dave Fulton / AllTrails
…and you may even spot some wildflowers popping up around the perimeter as well.
Mary Biggs / AllTrails
The mill is also nestled right next to Middle Patuxent River, so be sure to walk down to the water and enjoy the trickling sounds for a while.
Mary Biggs / AllTrails
Learn more about Robinson Nature Center by visiting the website (and social media page) linked below. Adventurers of all ages will love this short, easy, and historic ruins hike in Maryland.
Max Cheng (Max A. Cheng) / Google
Visit the Robinson Nature Center website to learn more about this Maryland gem, including programs and special events, hours, and more. You can also follow along on Facebook to stay up to date on all of the fun, nature-infused happenings.
Google Maps
Robinson Nature Center / Facebook
Ellen Schwenk Medlock / AllTrails
Dorothy Ortiz / Google
Seamus M / AllTrails
Max Cheng (Max A. Cheng) / Google
Dave Fulton / AllTrails
Mary Biggs / AllTrails
For another unique place to play outside, head to Maryland’s horse-racing themed playground. Kids (and maybe even grown-ups) will have a blast among the intricate carvings and themed play structures.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Annie’s Garden Trail, Columbia, MD 21044, USA
