10 Easy Spring Hikes in Maryland With Beautiful Views

Whether it feels like it or not, warm spring weather does eventually arrive in Maryland. Get outdoors this spring and explore these 10 beautiful spots around Maryland. These places offer relatively easy treks that the whole family can enjoy! We think these are some of the best spring hikes in Maryland (and around Maryland!), and hopefully, you'll love them as much as we do.

1. C & O Canal - Cumberland to DC

Looking for the "best spring hikes near me?" The C & O Canal is a little over 84 miles in length, so you can hop on the towpath at any point. Enjoy walking, jogging, or cycling along this historic spot. During spring, many areas along the towpath and surrounding trails are covered in wildflowers, making for a colorful sight. This is an epic canal trail in Maryland you'll want to do more than once!

2. Rock Creek Regional Park - Derwood to DC

This super-fun park in Maryland has a lengthy paved path that's perfect for family cycling, 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.

3. Calvert Cliffs State Park - Lusby

Take the Red Trail to the cliffs, which is about 2 miles long. Along the way, you'll spot water views and all sorts of wildlife, including turtles. Once you reach the beach, take your time searching for fossils, including shark teeth! This Maryland state park is a true treat for anyone who loves the great outdoors (and looking for fossils). It's one of the best spring hikes in Maryland.

4. Swallow Falls State Park - Oakland

Editor's Note: The access road to this park will be temporarily closed starting in March 2026 due to construction. Check the website for Swallow Falls State Park for updates.

This just may be the most beautiful state park in Maryland. Be sure to bring a camera to snap photos of the beautiful waterfalls. You can hike between the two along a trail that's a little over a mile in length.

5. Elk Neck State Park - North East

You can expect sprawling water views at Elk Neck State Park, with the Elk River on one side, and the Chesapeake Bay on the other. Enjoy seeing the lighthouse up close, visit the beach, and be sure to hike along the gorgeous clay cliffs. Definitely make it a point to visit this state park this spring in Maryland.

6. Washington Monument State Park - Middletown

See the first monument dedicated to George Washington at this unique state park. You can climb to the top and take in the views or hike the nearby trails, which include some of the Appalachian Trail.

7. Centennial Park - Ellicott City

There's a loop around this picturesque lake that's a little over 2 miles in length. This park is perfect for families, offering a playground, paddleboats, and more. Bring a picnic and make a day of it! It's one of our favorite kid-friendly parks in Maryland, too.

8. Terrapin Nature Park - Stevensville

One of the best things about this park is the great views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. You can simply relax at the beach or take to the trails, which provide diverse and scenic sights along the way. This stunning nature park in Maryland is one you'll love to return to time and time again.

9. Chapman State Park - Indian Head

This historic park has manmade sights to see, as well as natural views. Visit the old plantation house, which beckons to the past. Take to the trails, and you'll find weathered old barns, a hidden cemetery, and more. This park and its trails feel like some kind of fairytale scenic place in Maryland.

10. Patuxent River State Park - Upper Marlboro

This place offers unique sights and the boardwalk path here is quite impressive. Keep an eye out for an assortment of wildlife. This is one state park in Maryland you're sure to love as much as the trails!

What are some other spots that are perfect for exploring during spring? Which hikes around the state are your picks for the best spring hikes in Maryland? Need more? Check out this list of some of the best low-key hikes in Maryland to do ASAP.

Before you hit the trails, check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List for everything you'll need and Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to map out your trip.