7 Best Trails For Hiking in Maryland In 2024

Maryland, the Mid-Atlantic state of the US, is known for its natural landscapes and mesmerizing beaches with blue crabs. It is truly a paradise for outdoorsy people.

But did you know that Maryland is also famous for its hiking trails? There are more than a dozen places to go hiking in Maryland! Each one of these locations have something different to offer.

Here you will find hiking trails that are great for a short brisk walk in the outdoors or for a nice long hike to enjoy nature. It does not matter which of these trails you pick for hiking in Maryland. You are bound to have a lot of fun.

In fact, people tend to have their own favorite trails that they head out on frequently! Ask any local and you’ll get conflicting opinions. That’s the beauty about the hiking trails in Maryland. There is a perfect one for everybody!

So, if you’re up for an adventure, here are 7 places for the best hiking in Maryland.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my disclaimer for further information.

1. Cunningham Falls

Cunningham falls is one of the most beautiful spots for hiking in Maryland.

Let’s start with a place that offers an all-in-one experience with some of the most scenic hiking trails in Maryland, amazing waterfalls, beautiful relaxing lakes, and sandy beaches: The Cunningham Falls in Thurmont.

It has long miles of hiking trails that take you up to the waterfalls, which are truly a sight to behold during rain and snow.

But, if you visit in the summers, you might not get a spectacular view of the waterfalls; however, the lakes at the base of the mountains are surrounded by trees and serve as the perfect spot to cool off after a long hike.

And, if you’re looking to really call it a day, you can doze off on the sandy beaches after a small meal.

With so much to do, the Cunningham Falls is a perfect place to be if you’re looking for a worthwhile mountain hike in Maryland! It also has one of the best lakes in Maryland for vacation!

2. Annapolis Rock on Appalachian Trail

If you want to go hiking in Maryland and want a good view at the end of it, consider the Annapolis Rock on the Appalachian trail.

Another famous Maryland hiking trail is the Annapolis Rock on the Appalachian Trail.

This 5-mile trail is one of the most frequented out and back style trails and sees a lot of crowds on the weekends or a pleasant day. However, if you want to avoid the crowd, we suggest hitting the trail on a weekday or early morning.

The best part about Annapolis Rock is that it offers you many stunning views as you hike along. And, if you have pets, we have some good news for you!

You can bring along your furry friend to accompany you on this trail.

Once you’re done hiking, you can head over to the beautiful lake in Greenbrier State Park, which has a proper beach and swim area.

Also, if you’d like to add to your outdoorsy experience, you can camp at one of the 4 campgrounds located inside the park. The Appalachian trail also makes for a great day trip from Baltimore.

3. Billy Goat Trail

If you love hiking in Maryland add Billy Goat Trail to your list!

The Billy Goat trail is a good pick if you’re looking for Maryland hikes near DC.

The trail is distributed into 3 sections. The first section, which lasts for a little more than a mile, comprises a rocky trail, while the second section is easy and more casual.

The last section leads you back to the parking area. Regardless of which section you’re on, you will get a stunning view of the Potomac River!

The trail is almost 7.8 miles long, and it takes almost 4 to 5 hours to complete the circuit. Like the other famous Maryland hiking trails, the Billy Goat trail also has many hikers; therefore, we advise you to visit early in the morning for a solitary hike.

4. Fort Foote Civil War Ruins Trail

A hiking trail with a bit of history? Now you’re talking!

The Fort Foote Civil War Ruins is a 1.7-mile long trail that was originally a fort built in 1863 to defend Washington DC.

It is a complete historical site, with remains of the fort, canons, and even bunkers that were used during the Civil War. So, you can take a trip down history by viewing the century old war equipment, while hiking on the picturesque trail.

Apart from the fort ruins, you get a spectacular view of the National Harbor and Potomac River, and the wildlife and vegetation in the area make it one of the most scenic Maryland hikes near DC.

5. Calvert Cliffs

You can’t go wrong with Calvert cliffs if you are interested in hiking in Maryland.

Hiking is all about gearing up and exploring hidden trails in the mountains. But what if you stumble upon something interesting while hiking? Something like a dinosaur bone or fossil? At Calvert Cliffs, it is a possibility!

Located in Calvert County, the Calvert Cliffs are known to have fossils buried deep in the sands of the beach at the bottom of the cliff.

And, if your kids are with you, make sure you keep a shovel, because the excitement of discovering something is priceless!

People who have hiked on the trail have found dinosaur fossils, shark teeth, turtle shells, and many other artifacts from history.

Plus, the native birds and sea creatures found in the marshland on the way make the trip truly worthwhile!

6. Cascade Falls Loop Trail

Cascade falls is one of the best spots for hiking in Maryland with kids.

Going hiking with kids is fun, but obviously kids can’t really hike all the way on long trails. Therefore, you can try out an easy-going trail like the Cascade Falls Loop trail.

The 3-mile long trail is quite spacious with no elevations or rock climbing involved, making it perfect for a short trip through nature for people with kids and pets.

On your way, you can enjoy the scenic views and wildlife scurrying about. And, once you’re done hiking, you can head towards Ellicott City to grab a bite.

Or if your kids are up for some activities, you can visit the Rockburn Branch Park for some frisbee, catch, basketball, tennis, and mountain biking.

In short, the Cascade Falls Loop trail has something for everyone!

7. Sugarloaf Mountain

Let’s wrap up this article with a hike on the 14-million-year-old Sugarloaf Mountain!

Being one of the best mountain hikes in Maryland, the Sugarloaf Mountain has several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels.

If you’re alone, you can take the more challenging trails; however, if your kids are accompanying you, taking an easy trail would be a good choice.

Regardless of which trail you choose; we ensure you’ll have a great view of the surroundings.

The best part about hiking on Sugarloaf Mountain is the vegetation and wildlife. The mountain has over 500 species of plants and majestic oak, poplar, birch, and hemlock trees that have stood in all their glory for decades!

When it comes to wildlife, you might get lucky and have a close view of the great horned owls, wild turkeys, hawks, various songbirds, white tailed deer, flying squirrels, red fox, Eastern cottontail, and raccoons.

The mountain is also home to the timber rattlesnake and copperhead snake. So, if you come across them, take as many pictures as you want, but don’t touch them!

And there you have it. These are the best ultimate spots for hiking in Maryland.

In fact, if you haven’t realized it yet, Maryland hiking trails are most famous in the entire world and people travel from far and wide to experience them.

Each hiking trail has something that makes it stand out, like the view, or historical remains, or wildlife. And no matter which spot you choose, you won’t be disappointed!

So, pack your bags, gear up, and check out these 7 places to experience the best hiking in Maryland.