Looking for some adventure? Hiking is a great way to spend time with friends and/or family, disconnect from all of the technology, and simply enjoy nature. Plus, there are many benefits that hiking provides!
Convinced? Check out these hiking trails in Maryland!
Best Hiking Trails in Maryland
Waterfalls
Looking to find some great views of waterfalls on the hiking trails in Maryland? Look no further! Here are a few great trails with amazing waterfall views!
Cunningham Falls State Park
The Cunningham Falls State Park offers 3 different trails, an easier and lower trail that is only 1/2 a mile long, a rockier route that is .75 miles long, and a more strenuous route that is full of rocky terrain and amazing views of the Catoctin Mountains.
Although swimming is not permitted near the falls, a short walk from the falls lies Hunting Creek Lake.
Swallow Falls State Park
The park offers a few different hiking options. For an easier hike, go for the Swallow Falls Canyon Trail.
Looking for something longer? Take a walk down the Swallow Falls Trail. The 5.5-mile hike will lead you through the Garrett State Forest where you can gaze at the 300-year-old hemlocks that surround you.
The trail connects with Herrington Manor State Park where a 54-acre lake and beach are hidden. Swimming is permitted and lifeguards are on duty during summer hours.
Great Falls Overlook Trail
For the ultimate waterfall hike, look no further than the Great Falls!
The moderate 4.3-mile loop is located near Potomac, Maryland and features an amazing waterfall.
Plus, the trail is dog-friendly, as long as they are kept on a leash!
Family Friendly
Looking for a great family outing? These family-friendly hiking trails in Maryland still provide amazing views, just without so much strenuous activity as some of the others!
Kilgore Falls
Found within Rocks State Park, the Falling Branch Trail is something even the younger kids can handle!
The 1.2 miles long trail contains the 2nd highest vertical drop waterfall in the state of Maryland at 19 ft.
Patapsco Valley State park
Home of the Cascade Falls, Patapsco Valley State Park offers an easy, 1-hour long hiking trail. Plus, you can relax in the river after your hike!
There is a rock staircase that allows for a longer hike if the children are up for it!
However, the park is busy on weekends, so be sure to get there early for the amazing views!
Gunpowder Falls State Park
Located in Kingsville, Maryland this large park is divided into 6 areas: Hereford Area, Torrey C. Brown Trail, Sweet Air Area, Central Area, Hammerman Area, and Dundee Creek Marina.
The hike along the Sweet Air Area is located within both Hartford and Baltimore counties. It is great for those rowdy kids who love to climb, brave some steeper slopes, and search for hidden trails (the trails just aren’t marked too well)!
Save some time to picnic underneath the trees near the Smithy, where they host Blacksmith demonstrations.
Dog Friendly
Want to take your dog along for the hike? No problem! Many of the hiking trails in Maryland are dog-friendly! Here are a few.
Robert E Lee Park
Within this park is the Lake Roland Trail. The trail is 4.4-miles long with heavy traffic. The moderate trail is located near Baltimore, Maryland and offers a variety of activities.
Dogs are welcome on this well-maintained trail, but they must be kept on a leash.
Liberty Reservoir
Located 8 miles from Sykesville, Maryland, the reservoir contains the Morgan Run Loop which is great for dogs!
What are you waiting for? Get your things in gear and choose one of these amazing hiking trails in Maryland for some spectacular views and memories that you will never forget!
