Posted in Maryland Hiking, Nature April 12, 2022 by

10 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Maryland Should Take

Maryland has dozens of gorgeous places to go hiking, some of which we’ve discussed in a previous feature article. If you’re looking for spots to hike with sweeping views of nature but don’t want to spend an entire day in the woods, here are a few easier trails that almost anyone can do. Thanks to EveryTrail.com, we’ve compiled 10 of the best hikes in Maryland that are all under 5 miles in length, offering BIG views with little effort.

1. Falling Branch Trail to Kilgore Falls - Pylesville
Flickr / Mark S
This 1.2 mile hike is easy enough for the whole family. From the parking lot, venture across bridges, stepping stones, and streams before arriving at the picturesque Kilgore Falls. After getting your fill of this serene spot, simply trace your steps back. You'll like seeing everything more than once because this is one of the most scenic hikes in Maryland.
Learn more about Falling Branch Trail.
Kilgore Falls Trail, Maryland 21132, USA
2. Calvert Cliffs State Park (Red Trail) - Lusby
Flickr / Doug Kerr
Flickr / David Heise
This moderate-difficulty hike is 3.6 miles in length. It offers gorgeous water views as you cross boardwalks, bridges, and flat trails until you finally reach Calvert Cliffs. Spend some time admiring this natural wonder or even fossil hunt at this unique spot. Then hop back onto the loop to finish your hike.
Learn more about Calvert Cliffs State Park.
Calvert Cliffs State Park, 10540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD 20657, USA
3. Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock Trail - Thurmont
Flickr / Bob Keefer
Flickr / MudflapDC
This loop is just under 4 miles with an option to add one more mile if you're feeling extra adventurous. This rugged hike varies in elevation so be sure to bring your best hiking boots. The rock formations you'll see are impressive and the view from Chimney rock is astounding.
Read more about Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock Trail.
Wolf Rock, Maryland 21788, USA
4. Monocacy Battlefield (Thomas Farm and Middle Ford Ferry Trails) - Frederick
Flickr / lcm1863
Located where the 1864 Battle of Monocacy took place, these combined trails pass by historic buildings and landmarks. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind hike full of history, this is it.
Learn more about Monocacy Battlefield.
Monocacy National Battlefield | Worthington Farm, Urbana, MD 21704, USA
5. Greenbury Point Trails - Annapolis
Flickr / David Clow
Flickr / Ted Morgan
There are two trails to choose from here - a 3.3 mile trek through the Nature Center and Tower Trails, or a 2 mile Tower Trail hike. With fields, wetlands, and water views, this trail is beautifully diverse. This spot is a great place to view wildlife, including observing osprey.
Read more about Greenbury Point Trail.
Greenbury Point Nature Center, Annapolis, MD 21402, USA
6. Gunpowder Falls State Park (Wildlands Loop) - Middle River
Flickr / sugargliding
This 4.5 mile hike is a relatively easy hike in Maryland. You'll travel along peaceful streams surrounded by gorgeous greenery. This is also a popular spot for photographers.
Learn more about Gunpowder Falls State Park.
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area, 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
7. Accokeek Foundation Nature Trails - Accokeek
Flickr / baldeaglebluff
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program
Not many people know that National Colonial Farm also offers nature trails around the perimeter of the park. This easy loop is family-friendly and pet-friendly. Travel along pastures, bridges, fields, and more at this historic place.
Read more about Accokeek Foundation Nature Trails.
Accokeek, MD, USA
8. Cedarville State Forest (Pond Trail) - Brandywine
Flickr / alliecat1881
Flickr / Watson Media
Around 3 miles in length, this path in Cedarville State Forest is great for trail running or walking since it's relatively flat. Including stream crossings and woodland views, the pond area is also a great place to picnic or go fishing.
learn more about Cedarville State Forest.
Cedarville State Forest, 10201 Bee Oak Rd, Brandywine, MD 20613, USA
9. Fort Foote Civil War Ruins - Fort Washington
Flickr / Mrs. Gemstone
This easy 1.7 mile trek includes historic cannons and war bunkers. The area also offers amazing water views with the city of Alexandria in the distance. This hike is full of interesting relics and lots to see. It's a must for any lover of history.
Read more about Fort Foote.
Fort Foote Park, 8915 Fort Foote Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744, USA
10. Swallow Falls State Park Trail - Oakland
Flickr / Jon Dawson
Flickr / Doug Kerr
Saving the best for last, at just over a mile in length, a diverse trail runs between Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls. Hike along natural rock formations and venture over rustic wooden steps while taking in the gorgeous views of Youghiogheny River.
Read more about Swallow Falls State Park Trail.
Swallow Falls State Park, 222 Herrington Ln, Oakland, MD 21550, USA

Have you been on any of these short but equally scenic hikes in Maryland? Any that you would add to the list? Feel free to share in the comments so we can all know about the state’s most beautiful nature trails.

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes in Maryland

April 17, 2022
Danielle Schwartz

What is the most popular state park in Maryland?

The most popular state park in Maryland is South Mountain State Park. South Mountain State Park is 40 miles long and goes along the South Mountain ridge from the Pennsylvania line to the Potomac River. Take the Appalachian National Scenic Trail for striking views and amazing summits where you can see lots of incredible landscapes. It is a popular state park for many reasons, not the least of which is the stunning natural environment that you can see from the peaks and overlooks.

Where is the largest mountain in Maryland?

The highest point in Maryland is Hoye-Crest, a gorgeous summit along Backbone Mountain that is located in Garrett County, Maryland. At an elevation of 3,360 feet, it is an impressively high point with amazing views of the surrounding nature. It is a ridge of the famous Allegheny and Appalachian Mountains, so if you make it to the top, you can say you've had an extra special experience.

What is the smallest state park in Maryland?

The smallest state park in Maryland is Wye Oak State Park. Located in Queen Anne in Talbot County, Wye Oak consists of just 29 lovely acres of land. The park was originally created to protect the famous Wye Oak Tree, but the tree fell in 2002. While it is no longer there, you can now see the site of the original tree and read about its significance. There is also a sweet restored schoolhouse that will especially appeal to the history fans in your group! If you like historical sites and beautiful nature, Wye Oak State Park is the place for you.