Love a good hike but always have your kids in tow? Not to worry. I’m sure you’ve searched for “best family trails near me” and I’m here to tell you that there are several spots around the Old Line State where you can enjoy rustic sights without a whole lot of effort. The following kid-friendly hikes in Maryland are all under a mile in length, making them perfect for the whole family.

1. Cascade Falls Trail
Patapsco Valley State Park, Woodstock, MD 21163, USA
Flickr / Bart
The Cascade Falls Trail at Patapsco Valley State Park in Maryland leads to this gorgeous waterfall and is only a quarter mile from the parking lot. Be aware that it's rather rocky so strollers may not be an option. Once you see the waterfall and pool, you'll know that the (little) effort was worth it. It's perhaps one of the most scenic and best Maryland hikes!

Take a look at this video by @mymaryland:
2. The trails at Assateague Island
Assateague Island, United States
Cassie Jordan/AllTrails
Assateague Island in Maryland has a few trails, including a dunes trail, forest trail, and marsh trail. They're all under a mile in length and full of beautiful sights along the way. Be sure to check them all out, as they all offer something different to see. Some of the best hiking trails for kids can be found here.

Take a look at this video by @globalcityguide:
3. Savage Historic Mill Trail
Savage Mill Trail, Savage, MD, USA
Flickr / Matthew O'Thompsonski
This 1.4-mile out-and-back trail showcases ruins and the Little Patuxent River. Enjoy the sounds of rustling water and woodland views. After you're finished, treat yourself to some grub at Savage Mill Mall next door. Visit AllTrails for more information on Savage Historic Mill Trail in Maryland.

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4. The boardwalk trail at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, 2880 Grays Rd, Prince Frederick, MD 20678, USA
Flickr / alliecat1881
This short and sweet Battle Creek Cypress Swamp boardwalk trail is only 0.4 miles in length. Since it's flat, it's perfect if you're looking for easy hikes with kids -- just make sure they don't fall in the swamp! Keep your eyes peeled for frogs and turtles.
5. Flag Ponds Nature Park
Flag Ponds Nature Park, 1525 Flag Ponds Pkwy, Lusby, MD 20657, USA
Flickr / alliecat1881
Flag Ponds Nature Park in Maryland is perfect for children, as there are several shallow pools in which to splash around. The hike from the parking lot to the beach is a mere half mile. Be on the lookout for shark teeth! It's one of the best hiking trails for kids in Maryland.
6. Rocky Gap State Park
Rocky Gap, Maryland 21502, USA
Flickr / zizzybaloobah
There are several short trails under a mile in length at this Rocky Gap State Park in Maryland, making it a favorite spot for families to camp out each year. There's also a beach on site where you can take a dip in the blue water.
BONUS: C & O Canal
C & O Canal National Historical Park Headquarters, 142 W Potomac St, Williamsport, MD 21795, USA
Flickr / Mr.TinDC
Okay - I know that the C & O Canal in Maryland is actually a little over 184 miles in length, BUT you can choose to walk, jog, or cycle any distance you'd like. Every time I visit this spot, I see kids riding their bikes along the towpath. It's all flat (though a little rocky), making for a day trip that's perfect for all ages.

Have you ever searched online for the “best family trails near me?” Do you know of any other kid-friendly hikes in Maryland that are one mile and under? What are your favorite hikes to take the kids on around the state? Feel free to share below!

And don’t forget to try AllTrails+. Sign up and get your first week free!

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More to Explore

Kid-Friendly Hikes In Maryland

Melissa M. | April 03, 2022

Are there any kid-friendly road trips in Maryland?

Yes, there certainly are kid-friendly road trips in Maryland. For example, take our curated family-friendly road trip in Maryland to whimsical attractions and themed restaurants. You’ll visit a discovery museum, stop for a bite to eat at an Alice in Wonderland-themed restaurant, visit a zoo, and so much more. There’s plenty of fun to be had along the way.

What is one of the best campgrounds with amenities in Maryland?

If you love to camp but also want to spend some time at a campground with amenities, there’s perhaps no better place than Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Williamsport. Fun for the whole family, you can enjoy miniature golf, a pool with waterslides, zip-lining, and more. It's one of the best campgrounds with amenities in Maryland.

What are some of the best hikes in Maryland?

Some of the best hikes in Maryland include:

  • The Billy Goat Trail in Potomac
  • Maryland Heights Trail in Knoxville
  • Brighton Dam Loop in Brookeville
  • Swallow Falls Trail in Oakland
  • Battle Creek Cypress Swamp in Prince Frederick

 

Check out these best hikes in Maryland for more!

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