Underrated State Forest Hikes in Maryland That Rival the Famous Billy Goat Trail

Maryland is a surprising hotspot for hiking, with multiple unique rock formations and beautiful water features crisscrossing through the state. Of these hikes, the Billy Goat Trail is one of the most popular options that leads to the Great Falls Overlook. With multiple different trail sections to choose from, the crowds for this hike can be more than a tad overwhelming at times. Luckily, there are some underrated state forest hikes to choose from that can be just as beautiful and dynamic, but offer a bit more peace. 

1. Long Pond Trail via Deep Creek Run

Distance: 9.8 miles

Location: Green Ridge State Forest

The longest hike on this list, this beautiful trail can be challenging due to the changing terrain, but hikers note that this is one of the reasons why it can also be so much fun. Taking over four hours to complete, this out-and-back trail is very remote and, as such, can offer excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. Be sure to check the water levels when visiting because, although the trail is always accessible, some travelers might not enjoy getting their shoes wet during water crossings.  

2. Cedarville Orange Trail

Distance: 6 miles

Location: Cedarville State Forest

This remote loop trail follows the edges of the Cedarville Bog, part of a swamp system that carries some truly unique wildlife, including carnivorous plants. The trail itself takes almost two hours to complete but is flat and easy to use (and is popular with runners). Hikers mention how well-marked the trail is, as well as the fun, occasional presence of horseback riders.

3. Rock Maze Trail

Distance: .8 miles

Location: Garrett State Forest

The shortest hike on this list, this trail also happens to be the most popular of the bunch, but it is still somewhat of a hidden local gem. Its popularity, despite not even taking twenty minutes to complete, comes from the interesting rock maze that can be climbed on or over. The area makes young children (and a few whimsical adults) feel like they’re in a labyrinth from a fantasy movie.

4. High Rock

Distance: 2.2 miles

Location: Savage River State Forest

Not surprisingly, this hike takes you up a "high rock," which leads to beautiful views of the forest and countryside. An out-and-back trail, this hike only takes a bit over an hour to complete, which means that there are steeper sections to traverse in order to reach the top. Hikers mention that despite this, the trail is easy to use and is especially beautiful when the leaves change in autumn. 

5. Twin Oaks Pine Lick Loop

Distance: 4.2 miles

Location: Green Ridge State Forest

This trail is open all year and is accessible during any weather, but it's almost always uncrowded, leading to a distinct feeling of tranquility as one walks. The hike loops and takes just under two hours to complete, with occasional water crossings and well-marked passages. Hikers mention that this would be a perfect hike to take your leashed dog on for a relaxed, quiet day in nature. 

6. Thayer Trace

Distance: 3.4 miles

Location: Savage River State Forest

Although this hike is only recommended to visit from early summer to autumn due to weather conditions, it has many uses when it's open and is a popular spot for runners, bikers, and hikers (of course). Taking about an hour and a half to complete, hikers say that this loop trail is very quiet and peaceful, as well as only moderately challenging with occasional rocky footpaths. 

Are there any Maryland hikes you would have added to the list? Visit our nomination form and tell us all about them!