Geese aren’t ducks and Gunners Lake Park isn’t just a stormwater system. This park in Germantown is an oasis. It is tucked in the middle of condos and townhomes. Gunners Lake Park is part of the Montgomery County stormwater system. It was built to withstand peak runoff. This occurred about 30 years ago.
Gunners Lake Park sits on 8.9 acres. M-NCPPC acquired it in 1982. The park borders S. Christa McAuliffe Elementary School to the south. It can be accessed off Great Seneca Highway. The park is surrounded by high-density residential and commercial retail development.
Imagine the bustle of the road diminishing. Bird song and frog calls replace it. Walk along the flat path. It hugs Gunners Lake. Admire the lake from one of two fishing piers. You might see a goose. Maybe even a duck. They are both types of birds.
Birds are drawn to Gunners Lake loop’s vegetation. Wild strawberries grow there. Honeysuckle and wildflowers bloom. Tall trees flank the lake’s northern half. Maples and hickories stand tall. Rest at picnic benches. They grace the northern portion of the trail.
Gunners Lake Park has a playground. There is also a softball field with backstops. Two soccer fields offer space to play. The soccer field is permitted. It is first-come, first-serve if not reserved. Enjoy a picnic. A covered picnic shelter has a grill.
Gunners Lake Park recently underwent a facelift. The North Lake Village Federation maintains Gunners Lake. It has put extensive work toward the lake. They replaced the two fishing piers. The asphalt path was repaved. Distance markers got fresh paint. Thirty synthetic trash cans were added. Twelve synthetic benches provide seating. Two dog stations help keep the park clean.
The Gunners Lake loop is a convenient unit of measurement. Walkers and joggers appreciate it. It is 1.16 miles. Many locals visit Gunners Lake every day. They walk or run on the loop trail. It’s a quiet time and exercise. The wildlife is abundant. Blue herons are often spotted. Ducks and geese swim. Ospreys soar overhead. Many types of birds sing. Beavers build dams. Turtles bask in the sun.
Montgomery Parks is planning renovations. They will improve the playground. The picnic area will be updated. Accessibility will be enhanced. Community connections will be strengthened. The project started in Fall 2023. The anticipated start of construction is Spring 2026.
Take a stroll around Gunners Lake Park. Listen to the birds. Breathe in the fresh air. Enjoy this oasis in the city. It is a great resource for the residents of Germantown.