Grab the Wool Socks for This Hike in Maryland That’s 100% Worth Braving the Cold

Wintertime can get downright cold in Maryland, which sometimes leaves us with a bit of a dilemma, especially when we’re suffering from cabin fever. We want to spend some time outdoors, maybe on a brisk hike, but it’s just so cold. Brave the cold by pulling on wool socks, and a warm hat, that are sure to make you forget about the chill so you can focus on the natural beauty of this cold-weather hike in Maryland.

A snowy winter day looks so pretty when we're cozied up at home, but if you’re up for braving the cold, you can experience even more of that seasonal beauty, including the crisp air and the sound of snow crunching beneath your feet, on the Greenbrier Lake Loop Trail, an easy 1.3-mile trail in Greenbrier State Park. Allot around half an hour on this kid-friendly path that also welcomes leashed dogs, making for a fun, family-friendly winter adventure.

Breathe in the fresh air as you stroll along the predominately flat trail that circles Greenbrier Lake, a picture of serenity, especially when frozen over in the winter. Take your time, if you’re not too cold, and stop to relax on one of the benches to enjoy the pristine scenery, including bare trees, a wooden boardwalk, and the snow-capped landscape.

Bring a camera along on your adventure, too, to snap photos of the wintry scenery. Pose for selfies in the gazebo that overlooks the lake, by the sandy beach, and on the fairy tale footbridge. As you continue on your way, you’ll pass picnic tables, perfect for a quick stop if you need a breather, and through a wooded area. While the trail is well-maintained, you might run across some rough terrain the closer you get to Greenbrier Lake. If you time your visit just right, you might catch a spectacular winter sunset.

Greenbrier State Park charges a nominal admission fee which varies depending on what time of the year you visit and whether you’re a Maryland resident.

A trek along the Greenbrier Lake Loop Trail is just the beginning of the fun. Why not turn your visit to Greenbrier State Park into a weekend getaway? You’ll find so many things to do in Boonsboro, Maryland, that you might never want to leave. If you’re not sure where to stay in Maryland, book a local Vrbo.

Do you have a favorite cold-weather hike in Maryland? Share it with us by filling out a nomination form. Then check out AllTrails+, which features a full listing of hikes in Maryland, including hiker reviews, photos, and maps. Don’t forget to pull on comfy wool socks and a warm hat before heading out on a winter hike.