Quiet Waters Park is a popular spot in Anne Arundel County, located in Annapolis along the beautiful South River. It becomes a calm winter vacation when the temperatures drop. This park covers 340 acres of woods, water views, and paved paths. It is a great way to get away from the city all year, but it is especially magical for families in winter.
In the winter, the park’s soft woods and open paths look calm and are covered in frost. This is the best season for birding and walks in the woods or on trails that work for people with strollers. People of all ages can enjoy the fresh air and wide views of the South River with more than six miles of paved tracks that go through the area.
Quiet Waters Park’s winter charm centers on its outdoor ice skating rink, which is open only for a season and is in front of the Visitor Center. Families can skate on well-kept ice in the park every winter from mid-November to early March, if the weather allows. The rink is a friendly place for skaters of all skill levels to come and enjoy their neighborhood.
Quiet Waters Park in winter is a great Annapolis family-friendly winter location for ice skating or walking among bare branches and river views. Let’s explore more exciting things to do in Annapolis Quiet Waters Park with Zavros Place.
Family Ice Skating at the Rink
The outdoor ice skating rink, which is right in front of the Visitor Center, is one of the best things about winter at Quiet Waters Park. People from all over Annapolis and Anne Arundel County come to this seasonal site to enjoy the outdoors while skating on well-maintained ice.
Season & Hours
If the weather allows, the ice rink usually opens in the middle of November and closes in early March. Since the rink is outside, the way it works can change with the weather and temperature. It is best to check the rink’s Facebook page or call before going every time.
During the season, every day there are two-hour skating classes. Most of the time, weekly hours look like this:
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: 3:00 PM–9:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Tuesdays: Usually closed, but not if it is part of a holiday or school break plan.
- The rink is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Families can plan a mid-afternoon skate, a trip in the early evening, or a whole weekend of skating with these hours.
Admission & Rentals
Anyone of any age can go ice skating at Quiet Waters Park, and the prices are easy to follow and good for families:
- Entry to the park: You have to pay the normal fee to get into the county park.
- Skating entry fee:
- $7.00 for adults
- $6.00 for kids aged 12 and under
- $6.00 for seniors (60+)
- It is $3.00 per person to rent skates on site.
Each skater gets two hours per lesson, and helmets and “walkers” (beginner support aids) are often available to use if needed.
Tips for Families
- Before you go, check the weather. Outdoor ice skating depends on the temperature, and most restrictions are because the ice is not safe. People usually post local social media information immediately.
- Come early on weekends and school breaks because winter afternoons can be sunny and lessons can fill up fast.
- Little skaters will have a great time at outdoor ice rinks, but make sure to dress in layers and bring gloves because they are cold.
- Quiet Waters Park’s winter ice rink is a fun, active way to enjoy the season in Annapolis, whether your kids are learning to skate or the whole family loves gliding.
Woodland Walks & Scenic Winter Trails
Ice skating is not the only thing you can do at Quiet Waters Park. Its paved pathways and scenic routes make it a great place for families to enjoy the open space, fresh winter air, and some light exercise. These trails are open during the winter, and they are a calm way to enjoy nature close to Annapolis.
Easy Trails for All Ages
There are about 6 miles of paved tracks in the park that go through woods, fields, and along the water. These easy, stroller-friendly routes are great for families, seniors, and anybody with mobility issues. The slow changes in the land and wide paths make winter walks easygoing, even when the air is cold.
One of the most well-liked loop trails is the “Quiet Waters Park Trail.” It goes around the park for about 5.4 miles and provides a beautiful view of the scenery. On winter days when it is clear, you can enjoy views of the water, the sky, and the trees with no need to rush and without any steep hills or tricky ground.
Wildlife & Winter Nature
Winter makes it easier to see local animals compared to months with a lot of tree leaves. Along the South River and Harness Creek, you should look for ducks and geese, as well as small birds flying through the woods. The trails are a good place to see nature’s slower season up close, even when it is quiet in late December or January.
Scenic Overlooks & Quiet Spots
Along the paved paths, there are calm spots where you can stop and enjoy the view, like gentle river overlooks and small gazebos hidden in the trees. These places are good for taking pictures, having a quick snack, or just enjoying the peace and quiet of nature.
Start the New Year Outdoors
First Day Hike, a guided, ranger-led winter walk on January 1st, is available at Quiet Waters Park over the holidays. These hikes are a fun and healthy way to kick off the year. You can enjoy the fresh air and community energy while learning about winter birds and ecosystems. People often get together for snacks and warm drinks after the walk, which makes it a great practice for families. Click here to get the 2026 Annual Park Pass.
Other Family-Friendly Winter Activities in the Park
Quiet Waters Park is a great place for a winter family trip because, in addition to ice skating and beautiful walks, there are many other things to do.
Playground & Open Fields
The playgrounds in the park are a fun place for little kids to take a break, even in the winter. Kids can burn off some energy between hikes or after skating with a playground with multiple levels and open places around. When snow falls or crisp air energizes explorers, the playground’s large meadows and fields welcome running, simple games, and imaginative play.
Picnicking with a Winter Twist
Quiet Waters Park is 340 acres big and has picnic areas and benches all over it. These are great places for families to enjoy a cozy winter meal outside. You can enjoy the scenery or relax in the shade if you pack a thermos of hot cocoa and soup or bring a cold lunch that stays fresh. Winter picnics are more casual than summer barbecues, but they are a great way to take a break, rest, and enjoy the calm beauty of winter outside.
Dog Beach & Off-Leash Areas
If your family has a four-legged member, Quiet Waters Park has dog-friendly areas that are fun to use all year long. Dogs can splash and run on the South River dog beach, and off-leash dog parks allow them to play securely under owner supervision. Always follow the safety rules that are written. Park rules say that dogs should be up to date on their shots and under control.
Community and Seasonal Activities
Winter is not the most popular season for events, but Quiet Waters Park still hosts rare community-focused activities and nature-themed programs with help from local groups like the Friends of Quiet Waters Park.
These events may include guided nature hikes, bird-watching groups, or casual outdoor gatherings that connect families to the park in winter. As the season goes on, check the park calendar or neighborhood websites for updates.
Indoor Retreats & Amenities
Quiet Waters Park is mostly known for its outdoor activities in the winter, but it also has a number of indoor spaces and useful features that let families warm up, rest, and enjoy art, comfort, or shelter from the cold.
Visitor Center & Art Galleries
start your stay at the Quiet Waters Park Visitor Center. This is where you can get information about the park’s events, nature programs, and trails. Inside, there are a number of art studios featuring local and regional artists.
This is a great way to enjoy culture while warming up and taking a break from being outside. Restrooms and chairs make the Visitor Center a good place to regroup before leaving. The Visitor Center is usually open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekends, but these times can change with the season.
Blue Heron Center (Indoor Event Space)
The Blue Heron Center is an indoor space in the park that can be used for many different things. It hosts weddings, community events, meetings, and other private parties. This is not a general hangout place for anyone who happens to be visiting, but it is a notable park feature that has space for banquets, a terrace, and beautiful views right outside. If you go during a public event, it is a great chance to go inside and enjoy the scene.
Note: The Blue Heron Center may not have as many openings for public reservations since it is being renovated. Please check with the park office before planning your event to get the most up-to-date information.
Picnic Areas & Shelter Options
Most people eat their lunch at Quiet Waters Park outside, but the park does have some covered outdoor pavilions with tables and grills where people can stay a little protected from the wind and light rain. If you bring a thermos of tea or soup, these can be a warm and comfortable place to eat snacks or drink something hot in the winter. Larger groups need to make reservations, but smaller families can use lunch spots as they become available.
Nearby Dining Options
You cannot get a full meal at any of the restaurants in Quiet Waters Park, but there are many great family-friendly places to eat in Annapolis that are close by and will be ready to serve you after your park visit. Get a local favorite, soup, or a hot meal at restaurants on Forest Drive or in downtown Annapolis. These are great for warming up after a long walk or skating. Casual restaurants serving comfort food and quick bites are good places to take kids, and these are recommended by locals.
Essential Winter Logistics
Making plans ahead of time will help your family get the most out of Quiet Waters Park in the winter. Before you go, here are the most important things to know.
Park Entry & Fees
Everyone has to pay a fee to drive into Quiet Waters Park every day.
- Each day, it costs about $6.00 per car to get in.
- People with a military ID can get into the park for free.
- For people who come here a lot, there are also yearly passes and passes for multiple visits.
- The fees are used to fund year-round programs and maintenance of the park.
Park Hours & Seasonal Access
During the winter, the park is open every day, but some areas of the park are only open at certain times.
- The park is open every day from 7:00 AM until sunset.
- Visitor Center is usually open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekends (hours may change based on the season)
- Only good weather allows the ice rink to open from mid-November until early-March.
Keeping these hours in mind helps with planning longer visits that include both playing outside and taking breaks inside.
What to Pack for Winter Visits
In Maryland, the winter can be cold, wet, and sometimes snowy. Family outings are more comfortable when you dress in layers and get ready for the trail conditions that may change.
Must-have items:
- Warm layers: base layers, wool, and a coat for winter
- Waterproof jacket & gloves: This is especially for the ice rink and the seashore where it is windy.
- Extra socks: Your feet will probably get cold if you go skating or climbing in the winter.
- Waterproof boots: Good to have when the ground is dirty or wet.
- Blankets or a thermos: Snacks and drinks can make a picnic cozier.
- Trail essentials: A water bottle, your phone, and a small first-aid kit
Weather & Safety Tips
Annapolis’s winters can have a lot of different situations.
- After it rains or snows, trails might be muddy or icy. Wearing durable shoes will help you avoid slipping.
- For outdoor ice skating to work, the weather has to stay cold; if it gets warm, the rink may have to stop for a while.
- Before you go, check the Quiet Waters Ice Rink Facebook page or the park website for information.
- Monitor young children on woodland trails, especially near water.
Conclusion
During winter, Quiet Waters Park is quieter and more peaceful, making it an excellent option for families who want to enjoy the season with fresh air, open space, and simple activities. The park has something for everyone, from energetic adventure to a quiet winter stroll, with its outdoor ice rink, paved woodland trails, stunning South River vistas, and pleasant indoor stops like the Visitor Center galleries.
Visit Annapolis in winter to enjoy time together outdoors, see winter wildlife, ice skate, and experience Annapolis outside of summer. It is no wonder that people love Quiet Waters Park, it is easy to get to, has things for everyone, and is affordable for families.
Did you visit Quiet Waters Park in winter? In the comments, share your best tips, skating moments, or pictures of snowy trails. Other families can use your experiences to help them plan a trip they will never forget!