“Picture this: a green ribbon winding through Montgomery County. It’s the Matthew Henson State Park. This isn’t just any park. It’s a tribute to a Maryland native, Matthew Henson himself.”
Matthew Henson State Park is a publicly owned greenway. It offers recreational features along Turkey Branch. Turkey Branch is a tributary of Rock Creek.
Have you ever heard of Matthew Henson? He was an arctic explorer. The park proudly bears his name. It’s managed by Montgomery County. This is done under an agreement with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Purchased by the state in the 1950s, the land had a different purpose. It was called the Rockville Facility. It was intended to connect to Montrose Parkway. This would have served as a spur to the proposed Washington Outer Beltway.
Residents wanted to preserve the stream valley corridor. The state legislature responded. It designated 83 acres as a state park. 117 acres became a county park in 1989. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources owns the state land. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission owns the county land.
Here in Matthew Henson State Park, the Matthew Henson Trail awaits. This hard surface trail is perfect for hiking and biking. Completed in 2009, it stretches 4.5 miles. That is about 7.2 kilometers. It extends from the Rock Creek Hiker-Biker Trail near Aspen Hill to Alderton Road near Layhill.
Imagine strolling along the trail. Almost a kilometer of wooden boardwalk meanders through sensitive areas. The Matthew Henson Trail project cost $5.7 million.
The Matthew Henson Trail connects with the Rock Creek Hiker-Biker Trail. You can find the start at Winding Creek Local Park on Dewey Road. It continues northeast to Alderton Road. The trail boasts ten-foot-wide boardwalks. These protect the most sensitive areas. Solar-powered emergency cellular phones ensure safety.
Since its opening, the Veirs Mill Road crossing has seen redesigns for safety. A cyclist’s tragic death led to a flashing light and signs. After another incident, a HAWK beacon was installed. Finally, in 2020, a full-color traffic signal was added. It features sensors that detect pedestrians and bicyclists. A continental crosswalk enhances visibility for motorists.
Matthew Henson was born in Charles County Maryland in 1866. He was an African American explorer. He is best known as the co-discoverer of the North Pole. He accompanied Robert Edwin Peary on several expeditions.
Henson’s skills were invaluable. He spoke the Inuit language. He mastered Arctic survival techniques. On April 6, 1909, Henson, Peary, and their team reached the North Pole. Or at least they claimed to have.
Despite his achievements, Henson was initially overlooked. In 1937, the Explorers Club recognized him. In 1944, he received a Congressional Medal. Matthew Henson died in 1955. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
As you explore Matthew Henson State Park remember the legacy of Matthew Henson. His spirit of exploration lives on in this green sanctuary. Take a moment to appreciate the trail and the park. They stand as a testament to Henson’s remarkable life.