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Best backpacking hiking trails in Maryland
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Best backpacking hiking trails in Maryland

Got your backpack ready? These multi-day trails are perfect for hardcore adventurers looking to carry everything they need for an extended journey into the wild.

Here are some great trails to explore in Maryland.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Appalachian Trail from Wolfville Crossing

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.0 (33) · 29.2 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

2

Medium

Susquehanna Ridge, Deer Creek and Ivy Branch Loop Trail

Harford County, Maryland · star 5.0 (24) · 11.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 50 min

3

Medium

Mount Dunlop

Washington County, Maryland · star 4.0 (37) · 23.1 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

4

Easy

Burkittsville to Harpers Ferry via Appalachian Trail

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.0 (36) · 15.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 28 min

5

Medium

Lambs Knoll via Appalachian Trail from Reno Monument Road

Washington County, Maryland · star 4.0 (23) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 23 min

6

Medium

Big Savage Mountain Trail

Garrett County, Maryland · star 4.0 (22) · 16.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 38 min

7

Easy

Seneca Greenway Trail

Montgomery County, Maryland · star 4.0 (38) · 19.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 18 min

8

Easy

Monument Knob via Appalachian Trail

Frederick County, Maryland · star 5.0 (34) · 34.8 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

9

Easy

Gwynns Falls Trail via River and Parks

City of Baltimore, Maryland · star 5.0 (43) · 11.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 33 min

10

Easy

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Trail - Cumberland

Allegany County, Maryland · star 5.0 (30) · 14.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 0 min

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Reviews for backpacking hiking trails in Maryland

Msgr. Darius Miller avatar

Appalachian Trail from Wolfville Crossing

OutbackWilderness59 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Efrain Zieme Jr. avatar

Susquehanna Ridge, Deer Creek and Ivy Branch Loop Trail

WildwoodAspenseeker36 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Amb. Charlott Dooley avatar

Mount Dunlop

SequoiaAdventureguide85 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

avatar

Burkittsville to Harpers Ferry via Appalachian Trail

JourneyRavinewalker64 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Wynell Steuber avatar

Lambs Knoll via Appalachian Trail from Reno Monument Road

ShadedRanger86 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails 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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