Triadelphia Reservoir

Triadelphia Reservoir offers a wide range of activities including hiking, biking, horseback riding on designated trails, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and picnicking. Hunting is also permitted in specific areas. It's important to note that all recreational activities, including boating and fishing, require a permit from WSSC Water.

Yes, WSSC Water manages recreational use at the reservoir. Only boats with electric motors, kayaks, and sailboats are permitted on the water, ensuring a quiet environment. Fishing is popular, especially for bass. All recreational users, including those fishing or boating, must purchase a permit, which can be obtained daily or annually at the Brighton Dam office or online.

Absolutely! The reservoir offers several family-friendly options. Many trails are suitable for leisurely walks, and picnicking areas are available. The Azalea Garden at Brighton Dam, with its vibrant blooms in spring, is also a delightful spot for families. Just be mindful that some trails might be more challenging, so check trail difficulty beforehand.

While the reservoir area is generally welcoming to pets, specific regulations apply. Dogs are typically permitted on trails but must be kept on a leash at all times. Swimming for dogs is generally not allowed, as the reservoir is a vital drinking water source. Always check the latest WSSC Water regulations regarding pets before your visit.

Beyond the expansive reservoir views, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as herons along the shorelines and deer in clearings. The Brighton Dam also features an impressive Azalea Garden, home to over 22,000 azalea bushes, which offers a spectacular display of color, typically from mid-April to early May.

The reservoir was created in 1943 with the construction of the Brighton Dam, submerging the former mill town of Triadelphia. This town, founded in 1809, was once a thriving Quaker settlement. During periods of significantly low water, remnants of the old town, such as foundations, can sometimes be glimpsed, offering a unique historical perspective.

The reservoir is accessible from various points in Howard and Montgomery Counties. The Brighton Dam is a primary access point, located at 2 Brighton Dam Road, Brookeville, Maryland 20833. Parking is available at designated lots, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is often recommended.

While the immediate vicinity of the reservoir is primarily natural and residential, you can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in nearby towns such as Brookeville, Clarksville, Ashton, and Olney. These towns offer a range of services and dining experiences within a short drive of the reservoir.

The trails around Triadelphia Reservoir offer a mix of terrain, ranging from relatively easy, flat paths suitable for casual strolls to more intermediate routes with some elevation changes. The surrounding 6,000 acres of wooded property provide diverse options for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. Always check recent trail conditions, especially after rain.

Yes, Triadelphia Reservoir can be a beautiful spot for winter activities, particularly hiking. The serene, often snow-dusted landscape offers a different kind of beauty. However, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy trail conditions. Always dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear for winter hiking.

Triadelphia Reservoir is a critical component of the Patuxent Watershed, managed by the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC). It serves as a vital drinking water source for nearly two million customers in Montgomery and Prince George's counties, storing almost 11 billion gallons of water when combined with the T. Howard Duckett Reservoir.