Posted in Maryland Hiking, Nature April 12, 2022 by

10 Amazing Maryland Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love

Maryland trails are nothing short of amazing. Speaking of short, not many know that you can hike several spots in the state for less than three miles. Check out these scenic trails that are big on views and require little effort. These are some of the best hikes in Maryland!

1. Fort Foote Park
Flickr / Mrs. Gemstone
Not many people know about this park in Fort Washington that's smattered with Civil War ruins. Hike the 1.7 mile trail for scenic views and fascinating relics.
Read more about Fort Foote Park.
Fort Foote Park, 8915 Fort Foote Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744, USA
2. Kilgore Falls (Falling Branch Trail)
Flickr / Kevin
This Pylesville hike is only 1.2 miles in length and leads to the perfectly picturesque Kilgore Falls. So easy, the entire family can come.
Learn more about Kilgore Falls.
Kilgore Falls Trail, Maryland 21132, USA
3. Cedarville State Forest (Pond Trail)
Flickr / F Delventhal
This enchanted forest is located in Brandywine and includes tons of trails that will lead to woodland views. The pond trail is exactly 3 miles, leading to reflective bodies of water.
Read more about Cedarville State Forest.
Cedarville State Forest, 10201 Bee Oak Rd, Brandywine, MD 20613, USA
4. Swallow Falls State Park
Flickr / James Anderson
There's a trail leading between this park's two major waterfalls - Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls. It's just over a mile in length, providing views of Youghiogheny River along the way. This is a great easy hike in Maryland.
Learn more about Swallow Falls State Park.
Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, USA
5. Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Flickr / alliecat1881
This hidden gem in Prince Frederick has several short trails including the pictured boardwalk that's only 0.4 miles. Check it out for surreal swamp views and bring your camera. This is one of the most scenic hikes in Maryland.
Learn more about Battle Creek Cypress Swamp.
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, 2880 Grays Rd, Prince Frederick, MD 20678, USA
6. Patapsco Valley State Park (Grist Mill Trail)
Nicolas Raymond/Flickr
This paved trail is 2.5 miles from one end to the other and includes crossing over unique swinging bridges. After hiking it, enjoy a picnic before heading back.
Read more about Patapsco Valley State Park.
Patapsco Valley State Park - Hollofield Area, 8020 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043, USA
7. Assateague Island
Flickr / Harrison Group
This well-known Berlin beach is also home to three scenic trails. The dunes trail, forest trail, and marsh trail are all a half mile in length and are worth exploring.
Read more about Assateague Island.
Assateague Island, United States
8. Centennial Park
Flickr / cj13822
This park is located in Columbia and the loop around the lake is 2.6 miles in length. This spot is perfect on a beautifully warm day. With a relatively short length, this is a nice kid-friendly hike in Maryland.
Learn more about Centennial Park.
Centennial Park, 10000 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042, USA
9. Backbone Mountain (Hoye Crest)
Flickr / Jimmy Emerson, DVM
To reach Maryland's highest point, you only have to follow a 2-mile out and back trail near Oakland. Once to the top, collect a certificate proving that you've climbed the state's highest point.
Read more about Backbone Mountain.
Backbone Mountain, Backbone Mtn, West Virginia 26269, USA
10. Savage Mill Trail
Flickr / Savage Mill Trail
Rounding out our list of the best hikes in Maryland is Savage Mill Trail. Nestled next to the popular Savage Mill Shopping Center, this 0.8 mile trail runs beside the Little Patuxent River. You'll also see historic ruins of the old mill building.
Learn more about Savage Mill Trail.
Savage Mill Trail, Savage, MD 20763, USA

If you’re up for more of a challenge, check out Billy Goat Trail by clicking here.

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Best Hikes in Maryland

April 17, 2022
Danielle Schwartz

What is the most beautiful hike in Maryland?

According to many hikers in state, the most beautiful hike in Maryland is Cascade Falls Loop Trail, located in Patapsco Valley State Park near Catonsville, Maryland. At a length of 2.3 miles, it's long enough to feel like solid exercise but not too tiring. It only takes about an hour to walk, and you can also choose to mountain bike or run along the trail for an even quicker route.

What is the most scenic town in Maryland?

If you love beautiful views and historically significant places, make your way to Chesapeake City. It's known by state locals as the most scenic town in Maryland. It's the only town to be located on a working commercial canal, and the fact that it's right on the water means that it has some spectacular views. No matter what season you choose to visit Chesapeake City, you will love the natural beauty that will surround you, in addition to the fun town atmosphere. There are great restaurants and shops to visit at any time of day in this lovely town.

Where can I hike to a cave in Maryland?

Crystal Grottoes Caverns in Boonsboro, Maryland is a great place to go if you are looking for an opportunity to hike to a cave. It has more stalagtite, stalagmite, and helectite formations than any other known cave, so you’ll be amazed from ground to roof. Regardless of where your gaze goes while you’re inside the cave, there will be something gorgeous to see. It's an amazing natural wonder that you'll want to visit again and again. The Crystal Grottoes Caverns are so unique that you will want to bring your camera when you visit to capture the beauty.