Best Hiking Spots In Maryland: 38 Must-Do Trails And Adventures For Your Hiking Bucket List
Sarah McCosham
Author
One of the smallest states in the country, what Maryland lacks in stature, it more than makes up for in natural beauty, historic significance, world-class attractions, and… pretty much everything else.
The Old Line State measures 12,406 square miles, making it the ninth smallest state in the U.S. But don’t be fooled; Maryland is 12,406 square miles of pure, unadulterated scenic splendor.
Because you see, within Maryland’s 12,406 square miles, there are 53 State Parks, 25 Natural Resources Management Areas, seven Natural Environment Areas, three Rail Trails, and two State Battlefields.
And within these areas, there are hiking trails — hundreds and hundreds of hiking trails. This Mid-Atlantic state is defined by its abundant waterways and coastlines on the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean, as well as its foothold in the Appalachian Mountains, including trails that connect to *the* Appalachian Trail.
There are waterfall hikes in Maryland and seaside strolls in Maryland. There are forested treks in Maryland and backcountry excursions in Maryland. There are riverwalks in Maryland and boardwalk trails in Maryland.
Whatever you’re looking for out on the trails, you’ll find it in Maryland. And today, we’re going to prove it, with the following guide to the best hikes in Maryland for your hiking bucket list. And before you go, don’t forget to check out our recommendation for hiking essentials!
Best Hikes In Maryland
If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that we could all benefit from more time outdoors. And hiking really is the best way to experience Mother Nature’s most sublime scenery.
Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or newbie hiker, you’re sure to find your perfect trek in Maryland.
Looking for a short-and-sweet hike for the whole family? An all-day hiking adventure in some of the country’s most immense natural wonders? Need an ADA-accessible trek for all the members of your party? Or perhaps you’re a helpless waterfall chaser looking for the perfect waterfall trek (guilty!).
You’ll find it all – and more – in the Old Line State. Ready to hit the trails? Here are some of the best all-around hiking trails in Maryland, and they truly are treks for everyone.
- Location: Potomac, MD, 20854 | Video Tour
- Stats: The Billy Goat Trail is comprised of three sections; the most popular trail to hike is Section A, a 1.7-mile trek that belongs on every Marylander's must-do list.
- Good to Know: Although Section A of the Billy Goat Trail is less than two miles long, it's extremely rocky and slippery in some spots, and takes an average of two hours to complete.
Altogether, the Billy Goat Trail is an eight-mile (round trip) hike located mere minutes from Washington, D.C. -- but it feels a worlds away from our nation's bustling hub. Along the Billy Goat Trail, hikers can revel in the resplendence of the raging Potomac River and marvel at the gorgeous grandeur of Great Falls. The hike is incredibly popular, however, so plan on visiting early in the day in order to beat the crowds.
- Location: 10540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD, 20657 | Video Tour
- Stats: This hike is just under two miles long and considered accessible for most.
- Good to Know: Calvert Cliffs State Park is a day-use park open sunrise to sunset, all year round. The Maryland State Park charges a daily fee of $5/vehicle for in-state residents and $7/vehicle for out-of-state visitors.
Once you hike the 1.8-mile Red Trail to Calvert Cliffs, you'll be spoiled for life. This trek is filled with rustic boardwalks, swampland views, and a fascinating fossil beach. Spend the afternoon searching for shark teeth and enjoying views of the bay. It's an ideal trail if you're looking for a short-and-sweet hike in Maryland!
- Location: 489-551 Harpers Ferry Rd, Knoxville, MD, 21758 | Video Tour
- Stats: This 2.5-mile hike is well-marked and considered "moderate" for most hikers.
- Good to Know: While this trail is best-known for its jaw-dropping views of Harpers Ferry, there are some incredible rock formations along this trek, too!
Most scenic hike in Maryland? The Maryland Heights Trail might be it! You may have heard of Harper's Ferry, West Virginia, but did you know that just across from it is a Maryland hike with an incredible overlook? The moderate hike is 2.5 miles in length and once you arrive at the top, you may never want to leave.
What's the best hike for viewing fall foliage in Maryland?
For expansive and colorful autumnal vistas, check out the Extended Loop Trail at Catoctin Mountain State Park in Thurmont. While long -- 8.6 miles -- this trek takes intrepid explorers high above the trees and horizons; 1,843 miles high, to be exact, allowing for amazing birds-eye views of fall foliage in Maryland.
- Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge: A place that feels like it's on another planet, the hiking at Blackwater Falls is on another level. Thousands of migratory birds can be spotted here at certain times of year, so you'll want to bring a good pair of binoculars! The sprawling wetland sights are truly a beautiful sight to behold.
- Assateague Island: Between the sandy paths and endless boardwalk trails, there's no shortage of accessible trails in Assateague Island, one of the most sublime spots in the state.
- Greenbury Point Trails: One of the best "hikes under five miles" in Maryland, there are two trails to choose from here: a 3.3 mile trek through the Nature Center or the two-mile Tower Trail. With fields, wetlands, and water views, you're in for a treat with both hikes!
Best Short Hikes In Maryland
You don’t have to be an advanced hiker to hit the trails in Maryland.
In fact, many of the state’s most marvelous natural wonders are easily accessible via short, sweet, and super scenic trails.
Whether you’re a beginning waterfall chaser or simply chasing after your kids, the following are some of the best easy hikes in Maryland that anyone can enjoy.
- Location: 26 Brighton Dam Rd, Brookeville, MD, 20833 | Video Tour
- Stats: This 0.5-mile loop hike is rated easy for most hikers.
- Good to Know: Open year-round, this hike is especially accessible. There are two designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Brighton Dam Road at the west end of the trail; both are van-accessible with striped access aisles. The trail surface is paved asphalt, concrete, or a natural surface (dirt, grass), making it easy to navigate for most hikers.
Nestled within a real-life secret garden, the Brighton Dam Loop is a stunning trek for nature enthusiasts. What this hike lacks in distance, it more than makes up for in scenic splendor; in the spring, Brighton Dam's azalea garden is one of the most beguiling places in the state!
- Location: Elk Neck State Park, 4395 Turkey Point Rd, North East, MD, 21901 | Video Tour
- Stats: This 1.9-mile, out-and-back trail is considered easy for most.
- Good to Know: Elk Neck State Park is located along Turkey Point Road in North East, Maryland; as a MD State Park, there is a day fee, which varies by day and residency status.
A sublime seaside adventure awaits along th Turkey Point Lighthouse Trail, a short-and-sweet hike with some truly jaw-dropping views. This hike is most notable for the eponymous lighthouse, which dates back to the 1800s and is even prettier in person!
- Location: Elkridge, MD, 21075 | Video Tour
- Stats: This 0.25-mile trail is considered easy for most; however, as it's quite rocky, this trail is unfortunately not stroller or wheelchair friendly.
- Good to Know: Patapsco Valley State Park is one of the best state parks in Maryland, offering 16,043 acres of outdoor recreation. You'll want to note that there is a day fee of $3/person for state residents and $5/person for out-of-state visitors.
For Maryland waterfall chasers, the Cascade Falls Trail more than delivers, providing an enchanting oasis that's pure paradise in the summer -- you might even see kids splashing about in its basin!
What are some kid-friendly hikes in Maryland?
We all know kids love cars and trucks and things that go, making the Number Nine Trolley Trail a surefire win for littles! This shaded, 1.5-mile loop trail was originally part of the Catonsville and Ellicott City Electric Railway Company trolley line. The trolley was active from the 1890s to the mid-1950s, and kids will get a kick out of the old lines and tracks!
- Flag Ponds Nature Park: With myriad trails under a mile long, Flag Ponds Nature Park is a paradise for those looking for some short-and-sweet waterfront trails in Maryland.
- Rocky Gap State Park: There are several short trails under a mile in length at this western Maryland park, making it a favorite spot for families. There's also a beach at this park where visitors are welcome to swim.
- Savage Historic 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!
Best Waterfall Hikes In Maryland
In terms of waterfalls, Maryland might not be as well-known as some of its Mid-Coast siblings, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist… or that the falls in the Free State are any less fabulous.
In fact, Maryland is home to some drop-dead gorgeous waterfalls; the kinds of cascades sure to stop you in your tracks.
In Swallow Falls State Park, the waterfalls are plentiful, resplendent, and easy to access; Cunningham Falls is a loud and proud, 78-foot wonder anchoring the eponymous Maryland State Park. There are numerous seasonal falls and countless hidden gem falls in Maryland, and what they all have in common is that the hike, or chase, is nothing short of sensational.
Here are the best waterfall hikes in Maryland, and we recommend indulging your waterfall chasing wanderlust and tackling them all!
- Location: Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland, MD, 21550 | Video Tour
- Stats: Just a mile long, while the trail is relatively straightforward, there are some stairs and rocky areas, so be sure to wear some quality shoes for your adventure.
- Good to Know: Day use fees vary by season; during peak summer season, Maryland residents will pay a day fee of $3/person; out-of-state visitors will pay $5/person.
Why visit one waterfall when you can visit two waterfalls? If this is your MO, definitely check out the Swallow Falls Trail, a short-and-sweet trek that doesn't skimp on scenery. Between Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls *and* the beautiful swimming hole at the latter, you might never want to leave this gorgeous oasis! More on that below...
- Location: 1026 Falling Branch Rd, Pylesville, MD, 21132 | Video Tour
- Stats: The hike to reach the falls is about 1.2 miles in length, making it suitable for most ages, including children.
- Good to Know: Be aware that there are bumpy parts of the trail, including rocks and tree roots. As such, strollers are not recommended on this trail.
While Kilgore Falls is only 17 feet tall, this breathtaking beauty is pretty much the Platonic ideal of cascades. The best part is that the hike to the falls -- the Falling Branch Trail to Kilgore Falls -- is short and sweet, making this one of the most accessible waterfall hikes in the state!
Are there any walk behind waterfalls in Maryland
There sure are! Rocks State Park is home to Kilgore Falls, Maryland's very own waterfall lagoon. The perfect place to splash about on a hot day, waterfall chasers willing to get their feet wet can stand behind this waterfall -- and even below its powerful spray!
- Location: 14039 Catoctin Hollow Rd, Thurmont, MD, 21788 | Video Tour
- Stats: The walk to these falls is just under three miles, and is especially lovely in the fall.
- Good to Know: One of the best state parks in Maryland, Cunningham Falls State Park is a public recreation area located west of Thurmont; in addition to the falls, it's home to a 43-acre man-made lake, and the remains of a historic iron furnace
Discover the tallest waterfall in Maryland along the Cunningham Falls Trail, a 2.8-mile path at the eponymous state park. The sights along the way are gorgeous year-round, and the 78-foot-tall cascade is a true showstopper!
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- Gunpowder Falls State Park: Maryland's largest state park, you'll find numerous diminutive and seasonal cascades along its 120 miles of trails.
- Liberty Dam Trail: While Liberty Dam isn't technically a waterfall, it's a marvelous, man-made wonder that's sure to drop your jaw. Check it out on the Liberty Dam Hike, a 1.6-mile round trip that's endlessly scenic!
Best Hidden Gem Hikes In Maryland
The spirit of exploration and discovery runs deep here in America, and avid hikers will tell you there’s nothing like traipsing into the unknown, exploring the far corners into which most don’t venture.
You don’t have to go off the grid, or, in many cases, even be an experienced hiker to embark on many of these adventures; some of the best hidden gem hikes in Maryland are refreshingly straightforward and accessible.
Here are some of the best hidden gem hikes in Maryland we think should be included on every hiker’s bucket list:
- Location: 10, Potomac, MD, 20854 | Video Tour
- Stats: The entire The C & O Canal is 184.5 miles in length, but it's easy to hike small sections based on your abilities, schedule, and preferences.
- Good to Know: The longest trail in the Free State, this route stretches from Washington DC to Cumberland, Maryland. There are myriad ways to experience this trail; though the canal boats no longer transport goods, you can still take a ride aboard these classic vessels.
Experience history like never before along the C & O Canal Towpath, Maryland's most iconic trail. What some don't know is that this 180+ mile route is now a lovely hiking and biking trail that can be catered to whatever distance, difficulty level, or type of scenery you're in the mood for!
Are there any cave hikes in Maryland?
If you're looking for a hidden gem hike in Maryland that's quite literally hidden, definitely check out Killiansburg Cave, which you'll find along the C & O Canal near mile marker 75.7. The cave is nestled on a hill about 100 feet from the towpath. It's such a hidden gem that it's to miss, so keep your eyes peeled!
- Location: 2880 Grays Rd, Prince Frederick, MD, 20678 | Video Tour
- Stats: At just 0.4 miles in length, the boardwalk trail at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is accessible for all, including families and those with strollers or wheelchairs.
- Good to Know: Enter the address "2880 Grays Road Prince Frederick" into your GPS -- otherwise you'll end up in the middle of the swamp! Please note that dogs are not permitted here.
A swamp in Maryland? Yes! Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is one of the most unexpectedly amazing places in the Old Line State. This 100-acre expanse is one of the northernmost sites of naturally occurring bald cypress trees in North America, and the only large stand of the trees on the western shore of Maryland. And with an easy, peasy boardwalk trail, all are invited to come and revel in this unique natural paradise.
- Location: Near Damascus, MD, 21797 | Video Tour
- Stats: Despite its five miles, this out-and-back trail is considered easy for most. Even if you're a novice hiker, you should have little difficulty on this part of the Appalachian Trail, considered to have some of the easiest hiking along the entire route, in fact.
- Good to Know: Reserve a coupe of hours for this hike. This is a very popular area for hiking and rock climbing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Forty miles of the Appalachian Trail cross through Maryland, including Annapolis Rock. The scenery along this trail is so diversely picturesque, especially the overlook, which is Maryland's own Pride Rock!
- Rock Creek Regional Park: This picture-perfect park in Maryland has a paved path that's perfect for family cycling, and where you'll be surrounded by rustic sights along the way. This place is also great when the weather becomes hot because the trees keep most of the trail shaded and cool.
- Serpentine Trail: In Baltimore County, Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area covers 1,900 acres of serpentine barrens. Out of all of the trails offered, Serpentine Trail is a favorite among visitors for its mostly flat trek, easy 2.4 mile length, and incredibly diverse views.
- Alberton Road Trail: Located in the Windsor Mill area, the Alberton Road Trail leads to an abandoned town known as Daniels. This former mill town has a couple of church structures left, and if you keep your eyes peeled, you'll also spot vintage cars hiding among the leaves.
Best Hikes Near Baltimore
As Maryland’s largest city, Baltimore is an American icon. It’s the birthplace of the National Anthem; the home of the Ravens and Orioles; and the city boasting the best crab cakes in the country (this last statement is an irrefutable fact!).
What Baltimore isn’t particularly known for, however, is its green spaces or parks; but really, it should be.
Did you know that Baltimore is home to more than 4,000 acres of parkland and public space? Or that, within city borders, there are over 94,000 street trees and 28,000 park trees?
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Baltimore, Maryland, when you hit the trails found in one of the town’s numerous public parks and nature preserves. Here are the best hikes near Baltimore worth seeking out:
- Location: Morgan Mill Rd and Loch Raven Dr, Baltimore, MD, 21057 | Video Tour
- Stats: This hike is just over five miles long and considered a moderately challenging loop that takes an average of two hours to complete.
- Good to Know: This park is free to visit, and, as such, gets quite busy on nice days, especially during the height of fall foliage!
Discover your own slice of paradise at Loch Raven Reservoir, a 2,400-acre lake that's teeming with wildlife. In addition to being surrounded by lush and colorful foliage, there's a five-mile loop trail around this reservoir that's positively perfect.
- Location: 8211 Glen Rd, Parkville, MD, 21234 | Video Tour
- Stats: This 1.6-mile hike is considered easy for most.
- Good to Know: Dogs are welcome to come along on this hike, and are even permitted to be off-leash in some areas.
This hike near Baltimore is hailed as one of the most family-friendly trails in the state. This 1.6-mile loop trail can be hiked in under an hour -- but only if you aren't enchanted by the waterfall. It's a beautiful sight year-round, but a day or two after rain is the best time to see it all come together.
- Location: 3900 Bel Air Rd, Baltimore, MD, 21213 | Video Tour
- Stats: The 2.5-mile Herring Run Trail is a neighborhood gem that runs through Herring Run Park, a scenic 375-acre oasis in Northeast Baltimore.
- Good to Know: If you're looking for an escape in nature that's literally *in* Baltimore, Herring Run Park is a true hidden gem. Great blue heron and white egret often can be seen fishing in Herring Run; fox are seen with some frequency; and there is also a growing population of deer in this urban oasis.
Originally conceived by the Olmsted Brothers in 1904, Herring Run Park is a picturesque place that remains stubbornly under the radar. While there are beautiful trails, lush landscapes, and even seasonal waterfalls here, Herring Run Park also boasts some fascinating old ruins, making for a fun ghost hunting adventure in Maryland!
Are there any loop trails near Baltimore?
Yes! Lace up your sneakers for the Centennial Park Loop, a beautiful, 2.6-mile paved path around Centennial Park's lovely lake that's pretty much accessible for everyone.
- Grist Mill Trail: Patapsco Valley State Park covers over 14,000 acres, sprawling across parts of Baltimore County and Howard County. While this park boasts dozens of trails, we recommend the easier (but no less beautiful) Grist Mill Trail. Favorite points of interest among this path are its two rustic swinging bridges.
- Gwynns Falls Trail: Is this hike long? Yes. Is it worth it? Yes! This nearly 11-mile long trail offers a variety of sights along the way. The trail is well-marked and well-suited for a day of outdoor adventure that's just minutes from the hustle and bustle of Baltimore.
- Jones Falls Trail: This hike near Baltimore passes several area attractions, including Cylburn Arboretum and Druid Hill Park. With so many stops along the way, you could certainly make a day out of exploring this trail!
Best Hikes In Southern Maryland
Geography lesson time! There are three distinct regions that characterize Maryland’s topography:
The first and largest area, falling within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, is bisected by the Chesapeake Bay, dividing Maryland into the Eastern Shore and the Western Shore.
The Piedmont Plateau, found west of the coastal lowlands, is a broad, rolling expanse with several deep gorges cut by rivers.
The Appalachian Mountain region, located further west near the West Virginia border, contains the state’s highest hills and peaks.
That’s a lot of geographical diversity in a small state, which makes for particularly incredible hiking — especially in Southern Maryland. Known for its beaches, rivers, and woodlands, Southern Maryland is home to amazing places such as Chapel Point State Park, Calvert Cliffs State Park, and Newtowne Neck State Park.
Within these regions, and many others, you’ll find the best hikes in Southern Maryland:
- Location: 3400 Bryan Point Rd, Accokeek, MD, 20607 | Video Tour
- Stats: At just three miles long, this trail is considered an easy route that takes an average of an hour to complete.
- Good to Know: All areas of Piscataway Park are free and open to the public. The farm is free to visit, too; however, there may be fees for some special events.
Not many people know that National Colonial Farm also offers nature trails around the perimeter of the park. The Accokeek Foundation Nature Trails are family-friendly and pet-friendly. Travel along pastures, bridges, fields, and more at this historic place, which makes an excellent Maryland day trip for families!
- Location: 10201 Bee Oak Rd, Brandywine, MD, 20613 | Video Tour
- Stats: Just three miles long, this path is accessible for most, as it's mainly flat and also paved.
- Good to Know: The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset; please note there is a day fee for Maryland residents of $3/vehicle; out-of-state residents pay $5/vehicle.
A beautiful hidden gem that's a fishing favorite, the Cedarville State Forest Pond Trail is the perfect afternoon trek for those looking to get away from it all. This short-and-sweet hike is generally not crowded, and is a lush and lovely oasis, especially during the summer.
- Patuxent River Park: One of Maryland's least-visited state parks, the trails at Patuxent River Park are some of the most breathtakingly beautiful in the entire state, with lush woodland paths that include footbridges and plenty of flora and fauna.
- Three Bridges Loop: If you love hiking but prefer shorter treks, you'll be pleased as punch to discover the Three Bridges Trail, a scenic, mile-long loop that features (surprise, surprise) three beautiful bridges!
- Annmarie Sculpture Garden: For a hike that's anything but ordinary, head to the Annmarie Sculpture Garden. Filled with one-of-a-kind art installations all throughout its charming woodland grounds, this is a place sure to please nature lovers *and* art enthusiasts alike.
Best Hikes In Maryland Map
Summary
There’s no better way to experience this beautiful country of ours than out on the trails.
And while Maryland might not be the first place that comes to mind for epic hiking, the Old Line State is, in fact, home to some of the most extraordinary trails in this beautiful country of ours.
So lace up your boots and get ready for a bucket-list adventure, whether it’s one mile or 12, out on one (or many!) of these best hiking trails in Maryland.
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More to Explore
best hiking spots in Maryland
What are the best wildflower hikes in Maryland?
The C&O Canal is considered one of the best wildflower hikes in Maryland.
Finding scenic hiking trails in Maryland is easy. You just have to know what type of views you want. If you love wildflowers, you’ll definitely want to consider a hike along the C&O Canal. Don’t worry; you won’t have to hike the entire 184-mile trail to admire the colorful wildflowers. Stroll until you’ve had your fill of the thousands of wildflowers – bluebells, for example – that line the winding path. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for butterflies and local wildlife. While spring and summer are the perfect time to hike the trail, you’ll find natural beauty all year around.
Which hikes in Maryland are short and sweet?
One of the best short trails in Maryland is the Cascade Falls Trail.
Hiking in Maryland can be fun for the whole family, and you’ll find an abundance of short and sweet hikes to get you started. Cascade Falls Trail in Patapsco Valley State Park, for example, leads straight to the beautiful Cascade Falls. The trail spans just a quarter of a mile, but it’s definitely not made for strollers. You’ll also need some sturdy shoes as the trail can get pretty rocky. However, the waterfall is worth the effort at any time of the year. During the hot summer months, dip your feet in the natural pool into which the waterfall cascades. Visit to see the waterfall flanked by fall foliage and blanketed in snow.
What are the best waterfalls in Maryland?
Check out any of the following beautiful waterfalls in Maryland:
- Paw Paw Falls
- Cunningham Falls
- Great Falls
Ready to find things to do outdoors in Maryland? How about setting off on a waterfall road trip that pairs some of the state’s best waterfalls with some of its best hikes? The waterfall road trip spans just over 300 miles and includes six hours of drive time. You’ll start your epic journey at Muddy Creek & Swallow Falls, which requires a one-mile hike between the two. (Wear sturdy boots or hiking shoes.) The road trip also includes stops at Paw Paw Falls, Cunningham Falls, and Great Falls. Cap off your trek with a visit to Kilgore Falls.