Welcome! We welcome your suggestions for making the path a better experience for all employees and guests of The Arc WC.
The Arc WC Walking & Fitness Path has four walking loops, including a self-guided nature trail with fitness stations, picnic areas, and settings to inspire meditation and personal renewal.
Each of the trail names were selected for species of butterflies that live in Washington County. Are you faster than a Monarch? Scientists estimate the Monarch butterfly’s flight speed as approximately 5.5 mph. For comparison, the average human jogs at a rate of 6 to 8 mph.
Etiquette and Safety
Please help keep this space safe and beautiful for all. Observing these guide lines will increase your personal enjoyment while using the walking & fitness path:
- Use during daylight hours only and stay on marked paths.
- Walk and exercise with a partner.
- Wear appropriate shoes for exercise.
- Wear insect repellent and sunscreen, and carry water as needed.
- No smoking anywhere on the walking & fitness path.
- Carry out any litter you carry in and pick up litter you see, even if it’s not yours.
- Clean up after your pets.
- Follow all directional signs and posted instructions, including the fitness stations.
- Respect wildlife, trees, and plants.
- Be alert for natural hazards such as stinging insects, thorny vines, poison ivy, wildlife, and changing weather conditions.
- Be alert for traffic.
- Guests: please park your vehicles on Florida Avenue and note that there are no public restroom facilities.
- Report any safety concerns or damage to the path or equipment.
- In case of an emergency, call 911.
Use of the walking & fitness path is at your own risk.
Benefits of Walking
Experts recommend at least 2½ hours of moderate activity a week. Walking is one of the easiest ways to get the exercise you need to stay healthy and it doesn’t require any special equipment to get started.
Regular brisk walking can help you:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Prevent or manage various medical conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, dementia, arthritis, and type 2 diabetes
- Strengthen your bones and muscles
- Lift your mood and reduce stress
- Improve your balance and coordination
You don’t need a doctor to tell you that exercise is essential for a healthy life. But if you don’t already exercise, your health care provider may need to advise you if it’s safe to start.
Did you know that walking is Maryland’s State Exercise?
– The Arc WC Wellness Committee