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Best forest hikes in Maryland
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Best forest hikes in Maryland

Need a nature reset? These forest hikes will immerse you in a sea of greenery.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Maryland.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Catoctin National Recreation Trail - Short from Catoctin Furnace Road

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.5 (35) · 8.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

2

Medium

Merryman's Mill Upper and Yellow Loop Trail

Baltimore County, Maryland · star 4.5 (21) · 6.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 31 min

3

Easy

Stoneybrook Trail, Western Piedmont Trail and Kingsley Trail Loop

Montgomery County, Maryland · star 4.6 (29) · 16.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 42 min

4

Medium

Quarry - Orange - Little Gunpowder Loop Trail

Baltimore County, Maryland · star 4.6 (34) · 6.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 30 min

5

Easy

Great Eastern Trail to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail

Allegany County, Maryland · star 4.5 (21) · 22.8 km · Est. 5 hrs 38 min

6

Easy

Kingsley and Hard Cider Loop Trail

Montgomery County, Maryland · star 4.4 (38) · 2.9 km · Est. 39 min

7

Easy

Life on the Forest Trail

Worcester County, Maryland · star 4.8 (30) · 729 m · Est. 8 min

8

Easy

Spicebush Nature Loop Trail

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.7 (23) · 580 m · Est. 8 min

9

Easy

Harmans Park Loop

Anne Arundel County, Maryland · star 4.7 (24) · 1.8 km · Est. 23 min

10

Easy

Hammond Park Loop

Howard County, Maryland · star 4.3 (17) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 5 min

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Reviews for forest hikes in Maryland

Felicitas Durgan I avatar

Catoctin National Recreation Trail - Short from Catoctin Furnace Road

RoverRidgechaser40 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Zane Orn DC avatar

Merryman's Mill Upper and Yellow Loop Trail

HollowSummiter18 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Shawn Bode avatar

Stoneybrook Trail, Western Piedmont Trail and Kingsley Trail Loop

TrailTrailstar22 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

David Pugh avatar

Quarry - Orange - Little Gunpowder Loop Trail

dpugh717 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Adaline Swaniawski III avatar

Great Eastern Trail to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail

MeadowTrailstar95 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Maryland

What is the climate like for hiking in Maryland?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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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