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Best forest hiking trails in Frederick County
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Best forest hiking trails in Frederick County

Need a nature reset? These forest hikes will immerse you in a sea of greenery, where the air is crisp, the ground is soft, and every step feels like a magical woodland escape.

Here are some great trails to explore in Frederick County.

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

Easy

Walkersville Reservoir and Walkersville Watershed Loop

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.0 (25) · 3.2 km · Est. 46 min

3

Easy

Burkittsville to Harpers Ferry via Appalachian Trail

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

4

Medium

Cat Rock and Bob's Hill Trail

Frederick County, Maryland · star 5.0 (31) · 17.0 km · Est. 4 hrs 29 min

5

Easy

Black Rock and Annapolis Rock via Appalachian Trail

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.0 (33) · 13.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 18 min

6

Easy

Ballenger Creek Park Loop - West

Frederick County, Maryland · star 5.0 (26) · 1.7 km · Est. 23 min

7

Easy

Monocacy National Battlefield - Worthington Farm and Thomas Farm Loop

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.0 (33) · 13.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 49 min

8

Easy

Furnace Branch Trail

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.0 (28) · 4.1 km · Est. 51 min

9

Easy

Knuckle Buster Trail, VW Trail and Catoctin National Recreation Trail Loop

Frederick County, Maryland · star 5.0 (36) · 5.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 12 min

10

Medium

Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock via Gateway Trail

Frederick County, Maryland · star 5.0 (38) · 5.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 36 min

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Reviews for forest hiking trails in Frederick County

Msgr. Darius Miller avatar

Appalachian Trail from Wolfville Crossing

OutbackWilderness59 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Lora Witting avatar

Walkersville Reservoir and Walkersville Watershed Loop

RangeRockhopper46 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

avatar

Burkittsville to Harpers Ferry via Appalachian Trail

JourneyRavinewalker64 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Priscilla Metz avatar

Cat Rock and Bob's Hill Trail

HorizonOutfitter51 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Felicitas Durgan I avatar

Black Rock and Annapolis Rock via Appalachian Trail

RoverRidgechaser40 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Frederick County

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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