Nestled in the wooded landscape of Montgomery County, Maryland, The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring offers a thrilling escape from city life and a unique way to experience the outdoors. Located just 30 minutes from Washington, D.C., and less than 25 minutes from nearby cities like Silver Spring, Rockville, and Gaithersburg, this park is the largest aerial adventure park in the United States- and one of Maryland’s top-rated outdoor attractions.
Whether you're a seasoned climber or a curious first-timer, the park offers a wide range of experiences for visitors of all ages and skill levels, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, school groups, and corporate team-building events.
About the Park: What Makes It Unique?
Opened in 2010, The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring was the first of its kind in the country and remains one of the most expansive aerial parks on the East Coast. The park is built within a 6-acre wooded area and features more than:
- 200 elevated platforms
- 15 color-coded obstacle trails
- Ziplines reaching up to 300 feet
- A dedicated Kids’ Course for children as young as 5
These treetop courses consist of a mix of bridges, tightropes, swings, ladders, and ziplines suspended in the canopy of towering trees. The trails are color-coded (similar to ski slope ratings) to indicate difficulty, from beginner (yellow) to expert (black), ensuring everyone can find a course that suits their confidence and ability.
Each visitor is equipped with a full-body harness and connected to a secure “always-locked-on” safety system. Before starting, participants must complete a safety briefing and a brief ground-level practice course to ensure comfort with the equipment.
Seasonal Highlights & Best Time to Visit
Spring through early fall is the most popular time to visit, thanks to favorable weather and the lush forest surroundings. Many guests prefer climbing during:
- Spring (March-May): Comfortable temperatures and blooming scenery
- Fall (September-November): Crisp air and beautiful fall foliage
For something even more magical, the park offers “Glow in the Park” night climbs- select evenings when the trails are lit up with neon lights and upbeat music fills the trees. These limited-time events are particularly popular with teens and young adults and often sell out quickly.
The park is open rain or shine, but closes in the case of thunderstorms or extreme weather. Tickets can be reserved online, and advanced booking is highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices
Beyond adventure, the park prioritizes environmental sustainability and forest preservation. Trails and platforms are installed using techniques that do not damage the trees, and the park implements:
- Low-impact building materials
- Tree growth monitoring
- Minimal use of plastic and single-use products
Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by staying on designated paths and using on-site recycling stations. The Adventure Park also partners with local environmental and educational organizations to raise awareness about conservation.
Visitor Information and Accessibility
The park is centrally located and easily accessible from major highways. Free on-site parking is available. While the climbing trails are not ADA-accessible due to their aerial nature, the main base area is navigable for those accompanying climbers or observing.
Amenities include:
- Picnic areas for snacks and rest
- Restroom facilities
- A small retail shop with drinks, gloves, and souvenirs
- Lockers to store personal belongings
Group rates, birthday packages, and corporate outings can be arranged in advance through the park’s website or by contacting their group sales team.
Things to Do Nearby
Pair your visit with other local attractions such as:
- Sandy Spring Museum: Just down the road, it explores the area’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
- Olney Theatre Center: A premier regional performing arts venue offering plays and musicals.
- Wheaton Regional Park & Brookside Gardens: A perfect way to unwind after a high-energy climb.
These nearby destinations make it easy to plan a full day or weekend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Why You Should Visit The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring isn’t just a ropes course- it's a community-centered destination that combines fitness, fun, and nature. It allows families to bond, friends to laugh, and individuals to conquer their fears in a supportive, safety-focused environment. Its commitment to sustainability and innovative recreation makes it a standout among outdoor attractions in Maryland.
If you're seeking something more exciting than the usual park stroll or indoor gym session, this aerial experience delivers in every way. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, add The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring to your must-do list.
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