The best hiking trails in Maryland

1060 Hiking Trails

"Maryland's trails offer breathtaking beauty and history, from mountains to coasts with wild ponies."

Maryland offers a diverse tapestry of hiking experiences, from the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Trail to the serene landscapes of the Chesapeake Bay. Discover the lush forests of Patapsco Valley State Park, where cascading waterfalls and historic ruins await. For a coastal adventure, explore Assateague Island's sandy trails, home to wild ponies and pristine beaches. Each trail in Maryland is a gateway to stunning vistas and rich history, inviting hikers to explore its natural wonders.

Most popular trails

Medium

American Discovery Trail - Maryland and Washington DC

Anne Arundel County, Maryland · star 5.0 (3) · 446.6 km · Est. 18 day

Difficult

Appalachian Trail - Pennsylvania

Washington County, Maryland · star 5.0 (2) · 293.6 km · Est. 12 day

Difficult

American Discovery Trail - West Virginia

Allegany County, Maryland · star 5.0 (4) · 455.8 km · Est. 19 day

Difficult

Catoctin National Recreation Trail

Washington County, Maryland · star 5.0 (3) · 42.0 km · Est. 2 day

Medium

Torrey C Brown Trail

Baltimore County, Maryland · star 3.0 (1) · 32.2 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

Easy

Northern Central Railroad Trail

Washington County, Maryland · star 5.0 (5) · 44.3 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

Medium

Widewater Loop

Montgomery County, Maryland · star 0.0 (0) · 6.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 15 min

Medium

Mather Gorge, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath Loop

Montgomery County, Maryland · star 0.0 (0) · 2.8 km · Est. 38 min

Medium

Valley, Gold Mine and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Loop Trail

Montgomery County, Maryland · star 0.0 (0) · 8.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 7 min

Medium

Valley, Gold Mind Spur and Woodland Loop Trail

Montgomery County, Maryland · star 0.0 (0) · 6.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 44 min

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FAQs about hiking in Maryland

What is the climate like for hiking in Maryland?

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Maryland's climate offers variety for hikers year-round. Spring and fall bring moderate temperatures ideal for comfortable trekking. Summer can be hot and humid, yet the tree canopy in forests like Catoctin Mountain Park provides some respite. Winters are cold but trails in parks like Gunpowder Falls State Park remain open.

For up-to-date weather conditions, check with the National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/).

Keep in mind, conditions can change rapidly in any season, so it's important to pack and dress accordingly. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (https://dnr.maryland.gov) can provide additional guidance on hiking preparedness.

Do I need a permit to hike in Maryland?

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In Maryland, most trails don't require hiking permits, but camping or other special activities might. Check with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (https://dnr.maryland.gov) for specific details and to obtain any necessary permits for activities like backcountry camping or fishing.

Is wild camping allowed in Maryland?

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Wild camping in Maryland is allowed but comes with restrictions. Only certain state parks and forests permit backcountry camping and often require a permit. Strict leave-no-trace principles should be observed. Consult Maryland's Department of Natural Resources for detailed rules and regulations. (https://dnr.maryland.gov)

Are there mountain rescue services in Maryland?

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In Maryland, emergencies while hiking should be reported to local authorities via 911. For specific mountain rescue operations, the Appalachian Search and Rescue Conference (ASRC) serves the Appalachian region including Maryland. Ensure to have a charged cell phone for communication. (https://www.asrc.net)

Are there dangerous plants in Maryland?

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In Maryland, hikers can encounter a variety of flora, from deciduous forests with oak and maple trees to colorful wildflowers like Black-eyed Susans. This biodiversity changes with elevation and location, adding to the hiking experience. Learn more here: https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/plants_wildlife/home.aspx.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Maryland?

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Hikers in Maryland may encounter diverse wildlife, from deer and foxes to insects like butterflies. Always observe from a distance, and be alert to avoid ticks and mosquitoes. More wildlife information can be found on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website: https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/pages/plants_wildlife/mdwllists.aspx.

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