The Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Hike You’ll Find in Maryland

Valentine's Day can get a little overwhelming sometimes, especially with how commercialized it has become. Ads start weeks before, and by the time the day arrives, some of us feel a little frazzled as the real meaning – spending time with those we love – gets lost in all the fuss. If you're like me and prefer to skip the usual Valentine's traditions of a fancy meal and an evening out, at least for one year, bundle up, grab a hot drink, and set off with your love on this romantic hike in Maryland.

Escape the busyness of Valentine's Day and focus on you, your love, and the natural beauty at Little Bennett Regional Park in Clarksburg. If it's not too chilly, pack snacks or lunch and enjoy a picnic before heading out on the Sidewinder Trail and Dark Branch Loop. The four-mile path earns a moderate rating, but the challenges are typically easy to overcome.

Wear hiking shoes that you don't mind getting wet. The trail, especially if there's no snow on the ground, can get incredibly muddy. You might have to skirt some horse droppings and maneuver around stray logs and rocks. However, the popular trail is generally well-maintained. It can get hectic, particularly in the warmer months, so prepare to share the trail with hikers, horseback riders, dog walkers, and bikers.

Allow around 90 minutes for your Valentine's Day adventure, which will lead you over several fairy tale footbridges, perfect for stopping, admiring the wintery landscape, and taking selfies. Waterproof shoes will come in handy for creek crossings. Expect to cross bridges and the creek around a half-dozen times as you stroll through the forest.

Look at the trunks of trees as you walk, too, and you might spot a few surprises, including a statue of a bunny standing upright, tiny toys left behind by children, and snow-dusted mushrooms. A strategically placed bench in front of a stream offers the chance to rest. Sit back, relax, and share memories with your love. You might even see deer in the distance.

The pretty path also has my favorite natural wonder — a small waterfall tumbles into a shallow pool, a popular play area for dogs in the summer. Rocks surround the tiny cascade so you can walk right up to it. Be careful when walking on the rocks, as they are especially slippery in winter.

The loop trail ends where it began, but the adventure doesn't have to stop. Little Bennett Regional Park features 25 miles of hiking trails, picnic tables, and numerous historic sites, including the Kingsley School House and Hyattstown Mill, so explore some more if you're up for it. Leashed pups are welcome in the park; alcohol is prohibited.

Learn more about Little Bennett Regional Park on the official website of Montgomery Parks,

What do you think is the most romantic hike in Maryland? We'd love to know! Fill out a nomination form. Then, head over to AllTrails+ for a comprehensive list of the best hiking trails in Maryland. Discover some brand new to you Maryland spots using our Travel Planner!