Best trails in Maryland

The Annapolis Rock trail is a popular trail for day hikers in South Mountain State Park with great views along the trail to Annapolis Rock. You can see Greenbrier Lake and Black Rock Cliff. From the parking lot, follow the white-blazed trail along the Appalachian Trail towards the Pine Knob Shelter. Towards the top, you will split off to the left towards the blue-blazed path that leads to Annapolis Rock. There is a campground with a caretaker that can provide information to hikers about the local flora and fauna. You may also see rock climbers along the cliff line as well! Be careful not to park in unofficial parking areas, police are known to leave tickets on hikers' cars that are illegally parked. Show more

The Cascade Falls Loop Trail begins at a parking lot within the park and there is a fee per vehicle. Hikers are able to park at the Landing Road parking lot as well, however, be aware that if the parking lot gets full, you will not be able to park on the street. This is a wonderful kid-friendly hike that features a relatively flat trail and a couple of stream crossings. The trails can become wet and muddy after a rainfall, so make sure to wait an appropriate amount of days if you want to avoid wet feet. There are beautiful views all around and make sure to take in the fresh forest air. The waterfalls are spectacular and draw a crowd on a nice day. During the winter months, the trails can become icy and it is not suggested to be as kid-friendly. This is a multi-use trail so many other users may enjoy mountain biking as well. Show more

The Sugarloaf Mountain and Northern Peaks Trail is a loop trail that starts very steep and evens out in the middle before becoming more steep again at the very end, with the rest of the trail being much less of an incline going up and down. Most of the trail was rocky or uneven with tree roots, so wearing proper footwear is advised. This route follows what is marked as the blue trail loop counterclockwise, but around mile 2.7 it can be helpful to follow the offline maps since there is a confusing split in the trail. The hiking and views are beautiful, and definitely worth getting a little lost in any case to enjoy this area. Additionally, the fall colors are breathtaking and it is often much busier at this time of year. Since the trails are well marked and there are different options for different distances or interests, this is a great area along the Potomac River to explore numerous hiking trails. Users recommend arriving early to avoid parking area issues, along with helping to avoid crowds at the peaks but otherwise not too many are normally on the trails themselves. Users should also know that the gates will be locked if arriving before sunrise. Since some users enjoy taking this route counter-clockwise on the white trail, be prepared for some stairs at the end and to avoid following the blue blazed markings. Show more

From the parking lot, don't head straight into the forest as that's not the correct trail; instead walk towards the road, turn right, and walk to the end of the road. The trail starts by going up a bunch of stone steps. This trail is all switchbacks and sometimes a little steep. Make sure to bring water and a little snack to enjoy at the top while you sit back and enjoy the view. Going back is easier as it’s pretty much all down hill. Just be sure to wear some good hiking boots or a shoe with good traction as there is a lot of rocks on the trail. Best to go on a weekday to avoid crowds.Show more

A muddy start and finish, this trek takes you around the borders of McKeldin by following the river. Lots of beautiful rock outcroppings, small "waterfalls" and a great view of the rapids.Show more

A rugged hike to two outstanding vistas and a fascinating rock formation in Catoctin Mountain Park. This is a somewhat rugged hike to two outstanding vistas and a fascinating rock formation known as Wolf Rock, traveling through immense stands of hardwoods and abundant mountain laurel. Special considerations: With two outstanding vistas, add plenty of time to your itinerary for enjoying the views. Offline map is recommended. Users have reported that the trails are not marked well.Show more

Pets are not allowed in this park from the Saturday before Memorial Day until after Labor Day. Pets are allowed the rest of the year. $3 for Maryland Residents, $5 for out of state visitors Open daily 8 AM - SunsetShow more

This loop is a combination of all of the three major loops in the Catoctin Mountain Park, totaling 8 miles and including Cunningham Falls, Hog Rock, Blue Ridge Summit, Thurmont Vista, Wolf Rock, and Chimney Rock. Ranges from an easy walk to a challenging uphill hike, but the beautiful vistas make it well worth the effort. The park also has many interesting geological formations and wildlife. The trail is very rocky in many areas.Show more

Do not park on Landing Road or surrounding neighborhoods. There is ticketing and towing enforced. Show more

From White Oak Dr, Hagerstown, MD to Black Rock SummitShow more