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NatureHiking

Take A Paved Loop Trail Around This Maryland Lake For A Peaceful Adventure

Lake Elkhorn Trail in Maryland offers a scenic, family-friendly, and paved hiking experience suitable for all ages.

Updated Jun 19, 2023

Written by 

Jamie Alvarenga

We love all kinds of trails, especially paved trails in Maryland that are perfect for all ages. This family-friendly trail is one of the best places to go hiking in Maryland. It's not only easy, but also beautifully scenic, with lake views, wildflowers, and more. Read on to learn more, and keep the Lake Elkhorn Trail in mind for a pretty hike any time of year.

You'll find Lake Elkhorn nestled in Columbia, Maryland.

Map showing Baltimore, Maryland, with a marked location south of the city.
Google Maps

The 37-acre lake was built in 1974, and the surrounding path was constructed in 1982. Locals have enjoyed this gem for decades, and it's still as beautiful as ever.

A serene lake at sunset, surrounded by lush greenery and a cloudy sky reflecting on the water's surface.
Isabella Yoo / AllTrails

The 2-mile path around the lake is completely paved, making it perfect for all sorts of ages and all sorts of activities. Enjoy walking, jogging, or cycling around the perimeter, and marvel at the views along the way. You'll encounter woodland areas...

A winding path beside a lake at sunset, framed by trees and greenery, with a glimpse of buildings in the background.
Patrick Whealton / AllTrails

...as well as a cascading, man-made waterfall that's oh-so peaceful.

A serene park scene featuring a lake, grassy banks, and a walking path, with a person strolling by the water's edge.
Austin Moore / AllTrails

You'll cross charming footbridges...

A wooden bridge spans a small stream, leading to a grassy area with trees and a winding path in the background.
Odacir Pinto / AllTrails

...and if you need to take a break, there are plenty of places to rest along the way as well.

A red-roofed gazebo with picnic tables sits in a grassy area, surrounded by trees and residential buildings in the background.
Odacir Pinto / AllTrails

During spring, the park is colorful, with blooming trees all around.

A scenic park with green grass, blooming pink trees, and a winding path, with people enjoying the outdoors.
Patrick Whealton / AllTrails

Autumn is even more stunning, with bright foliage everywhere you look. What a picture-perfect photo-op!

A serene lake reflects colorful autumn trees under a cloudy sky, creating a peaceful natural scene.
Eddie Tapper / AllTrails

Lake Elkhorn is even worth a stroll during wintertime.

A snowy path lined with trees and a wooden fence under a clear blue sky.
McKenzie V. / AllTrails

And of course, don't miss the views during sunrise or sunset. This local lake (and path) are worth a visit any time. It's definitely one of the best places to go hiking in Maryland.

A serene lake at sunset, reflecting vibrant orange and pink clouds, surrounded by trees.
Bee Nej / AllTrails

For another little-known lake in the Old Line State, read: This Remote Lake In Maryland Is Also The Most Peaceful. Also, be sure to sign up for our newsletter. We'll send you even more nature-infused places around Maryland, as well as local restaurants, accommodations, attractions, and much more.

Have you ever embarked on the Lake Elkhorn Trail? If so, do you think it's one of the best paved trails in Maryland? Tell us your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to nominate your favorite places to go hiking in Maryland for the chance to see your suggestions featured in an upcoming article.

Check out this YouTube video by Artistic Drone Shots for an aerial view of Lake Elkhorn (and the Lake Elkhorn Trail):

youtube embeded image

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