Best kid friendly trails in Maryland

The Annapolis Rock is a popular trail with amazing outlooks. You can see Greenbrier Lake and Black Rock Cliff. There is a campground with a caretaker that can provide information to hikers. The rock is also a popular spot for rock climbers. Be careful not to park in unofficial parking areas, police are known to leave tickets on hikers' cars.Show more

This route begins at a parking lot within the park. Hikers are able to park at the Landing Road parking lot as well, however, be aware that if the parking lot gets full and you park on the street, you may be fined or towed.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

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

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

Easy trail system that travels through a forested park and includes a beautiful creek. There are some rocky and root areas, so watch your step! Beautiful views of the river. A excellent place for walking, running or mountain biking.Show more

Please note that there is a $3 fee per person at the center loop parking. Additionally you must make a reservation to see the falls on the weekend.Show more

Parking fills up early at Anglers. Parking is available at the park and you can use the NP pass, but the line to get in can be very long. This is a rewarding hike with many great views, but it can get crowded. Take the extra walk to the falls overlook if you have time.Show more

Reservations are required on weekends and holidays between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. More information here: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/central/rocks.aspx Kilgore falls is a great family-friendly short hike to Maryland's second-highest vertical waterfall located in Rocks State Park in the Falling Branch area. Rocks State Park remains environmentally sensitive and this area in particular, the Falling Brach area, is very well maintained. This area was once a meeting place for Susquehannock Indians. The trailhead can be accessed off of Falling Branch Road of northern Harford County. You will take the singletrack trail all the way to falls. The drop waterfall is created by large rock formations and is breathtaking. This is an easy hike for almost all ages and is great for kids, however there are tree roots on the trail and a stepping stone bridge to get the best view of the falls so use caution in this area or bring water shoes. If you are visiting on a hot summer day, make sure to to bring a bathing suit to take a dip in or wade in the swimming holes at the base of the waterfall, however use caution as there are no lifeguards on site. Because this is a popular trail and there is a small parking area, arrive early to secure a spot. The park rangers will turn you away unless a car has already left the lot. They do not allow you to wait for a spot or wait on the road for a car to leave. You can park at the Eden Mill Nature Center, which is about 1 mile from the trailhead.Show more