Growing up in Maryland, you learn from a young age how to love the outdoors. From the Appalachian mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, life in Maryland revolves around nature. Its easy to find a great trail with amazing views, unique species or spectacular waterfalls. If you know where to look, Maryland will surprise you. I love to hike in my state, so I’ve created the ultimate list of the best hikes in Maryland. Here’s a list of 10 Best Hikes in Maryland from a local.
Annapolis Rock/ Black Rock via Appalachian Trail
First up, we have Annapolis Rock/ Black Rock via the Appalachian Trail. This trail is located in South Mountain State Park in Boonsboro, Maryland. The trail follows along the Appalachian Trail until you split off for the Annapolis Rock overlook. The great thing about this overlook, is that there are multiple places to sit and relax. Even when the trail is crowded, you can find a secluded place to sit. Continue hiking along the AT for an additional 2 miles to the next overlook, Black Rock. Sit and enjoy the vast view of Western Maryland from this point. You can see why this is one of the best hikes in Maryland.
Weverton Cliffs
Weverton Cliffs has a special place in my heart because it’s an incredible payoff for a relatively short hike. You can complete this hike in a couple hours. This trail, located near Harpers Ferry, Maryland is a challenging incline with a beautiful view. You have a sweeping view of the Potomac River surrounded by rolling hills and historic towns. Sometimes, you will be lucky enough to see the train ride by in the distance. Another thing to note is this overlook is western facing, so its perfect for a sunset hike. This hike is short compared to other hikes in the area which is enticing to families and crowds so you will likely see many others on this trail. This is a personal favorite and one of the best hikes in Maryland.
Maryland Heights Loop
There is a lot of debate about which state this hike is in. Technically, the trail starts in the town of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. But the fact is- Maryland Heights is in Maryland. So I’m counting this as a Maryland hike. This trail is one of the best hikes in Maryland. Its got enough incline to really get your heart rate up. The overlook is unmatched. You get to see the meeting of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. It’s also the meeting point of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. The best part about this trail is it begins and ends in the most adorable mountain town. There are restaurants, shops, ice cream parlors and even clean public bathrooms to enjoy after your hike.
King and Queen Seat Loop at Rocks State Park
This hike is a favorite by everyone nearby. This challenging hike in Central Maryland is a 3 mile loop with a lovely rocky overlook. Located in Harford County, Maryland, this hike draws hikers from all over Maryland and nearby states. The view of the rolling farmland surrounding Deer Creek Valley is an incredible sight for hikers. The iconic rock formation at the top is also a draw for beginner and skilled climbers. You will likely see climbers on the 94 foot outcrop.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf is a very popular hiking area near Frederick, Maryland. The interesting part about this hike, is that it is not a National Park, State Park or public lands. This mountain is privately owned by a remarkable couple. They spent years obtaining the nearby lands to preserve its beauty. They created a private organization to ensure the natural beauty was available to all for hiking, picnicking, or horseback riding. Get here early on weekends. The parking lot tends to fill up quickly.
Cunningham Falls and Chimney Rock Trails
This park has 2 trails that I can’t forget. Located near Thurmont, Maryland, this park has the largest cascading waterfall in the state at 78 feet. The hike to the falls is very easy. You can choose to take the boardwalk, or the 1 mile loop to the falls. This falls is so gorgeous, its definitely worth visiting. Also located in this park, is the hike to Chimney Rock and Wolf Rock. This 4 mile loop features sweeping views of Western Maryland, historic rock formations and charming picnic spots. This area is the perfect place to spend a day in Maryland.
Cascade Falls at Patapsco Valley State Park
This picturesque State park extends along 32 miles of the Patapsco River in Maryland. Located less than 10 miles from Baltimore, this park sees lots of visitors. Families will gather at the riverfront and playgrounds on the weekends. One of my favorite waterfalls in Maryland is located in this park. At the Avalon Entrance to Patapsco State Park, follow the road along the river to the Orange Grove Parking lot. The falls is less than a mile hike away. You can continue hiking along the trail loop for 2.3 miles, then cross the locally famous swinging bridge. This trail is surprisingly peaceful for being so close to a city. You wont regret visiting!
Calvert Cliffs State Park
This captivating park is known for its massive cliffs that stand along the shore to the Chesapeake Bay. Located in Southern Maryland, this park has many trails leading to the sandy beaches. The Red trail being the most popular is 4 miles out and back. Since this is a shoreline park, there is not much elevation gain. A leisurely stroll through the pines, along the boardwalk and over the marsh will lead you to some pretty exciting finds along the shore. The cliffs at Calvert Cliffs State Park were formed 10 – 20 million years ago. As they slowly erode, remains from prehistoric species can be found on the beach. It is fairly common to find shark or whale teeth, or unique fossils.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Don’t forget about the eastern shore of Maryland. While this side of the state is flat, coastal terrain, there are still some amazing hikes. My favorite area to hike is Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. Located near Cambridge, Maryland this area is a refuge for migratory birds. It is home to one of the highest concentrations of bald eagles on the Atlantic coast. There are 5 miles of hiking trails, and also many paddling trails. Hike through tidal marsh and a forest of towering loblolly pines. Being on the eastern side of the Chesapeake Bay, this area gets amazing sunset views. You won’t want to miss this unique park in Maryland.
Gunpowder Falls State Park
This very popular state park is located in northern Baltimore county. Being just outside of the city, this park attracts visitors for hiking, boating, swimming, fishing and tubing. With so many activities, it’s no wonder this park is usually busy. My favorite trail in this park is the Lost Pond trail. This lesser known trail is great any time of year, but especially in the summer. The trail follows along the Big Gunpowder River to a natural swimming hole. Bask in the sun on one of the many large flat rocks lining the shore. Us locals refer to this trail as Pot Rocks, named after the large rocks you can jump off of into the water. Be sure to enjoy this trail in Maryland!
For being such a small state, Maryland is a great destination for outdoor lovers. From the Appalachian Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, there is a trail for everyone. Now I know when it comes to epic hikes, no one is thinking of Maryland. It’s probably pretty low on the list of “Best Hiking Destinations”. But, if you know where to look, you can find an amazing hike in any destination. Even though Maryland isn’t well known for hiking, I think these trails can hold their own. Let Maryland hiking impress you. Which trail are you going to hike first?
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