Greetings, explorers! The following hike in Maryland is a must-do for its unique natural wonders, tunnels, and most of all, swinging bridges! Since this trek is also mostly paved, it’s perfect for all ages. Check it out and enjoy this bridge hike in Maryland.
Did you know that there’s a trail in Maryland with not one, but TWO swinging bridges? It’s called Grist Mill Trail and it starts in Ellicott City.
Jamie Alvarenga / Only In Your State You’re about to see some of the most jaw-dropping scenic views in Maryland.
You can park at several areas along the trail but I usually type 1 Illchester Road into my GPS. This will take you to a small parking area just off of the trail.
Google Maps
Simply walk up to the path and begin your journey. The hike instantly starts with the first swinging bridge, crossing over scenic water views.
AllTrails / Alanna Martin
Most of Grist Mill Trail is paved, making for a pretty easy stroll. You can also bicycle along this spot if you prefer.
AllTrails / Kevin Millett
Along the way you’ll see stone tunnels that you can walk through…
Jamie Alvarenga / Only In Your State
…and observe natural sights on the other side.
Jamie Alvarenga / Only In Your State
Stay on the path, however, if you want to see the second swinging bridge. This one is the most well known…
TripAdvisor / Kenneth B
…and has great views of Patapsco River down below.
Flickr / 1sock
You can continue on Grist Mill Trail, for a total of 2.5 miles…
Flickr / katie wheeler
…OR make a detour to Cascade Falls Trail. This bumpy path is a quarter mile and leads to this impressive natural wonder.
Flickr / Forsaken Fotos
Come see why this bridge hike is a favorite among locals, and why people drive great distances to experience the beauty. No matter the season, you’re sure to enjoy.
Flickr / Nicolas Raymond NOTE: Parts of the trail may currently be closed due to the removal of Bloede Dam. Stay up to date on closures by clicking here.
For more information about Patapsco Valley State Park, visit the official website here.
Have you ever explored the Grist Mill Trail? What are your favorite nature trails in Maryland?
Jamie Alvarenga / Only In Your State
You’re about to see some of the most jaw-dropping scenic views in Maryland.
Google Maps
AllTrails / Alanna Martin
AllTrails / Kevin Millett
TripAdvisor / Kenneth B
Flickr / 1sock
Flickr / katie wheeler
Flickr / Forsaken Fotos
Flickr / Nicolas Raymond
NOTE: Parts of the trail may currently be closed due to the removal of Bloede Dam. Stay up to date on closures by clicking here.
For more information about Patapsco Valley State Park, visit the official website here.
For another amazing hike, check out this incredible fossil beach in Maryland.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Patapsco Valley State Park, Woodstock, MD 21163, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
bridge hike in Maryland February 09, 2020 Elisa Regulski What are the most unique hikes in Maryland? The Western Maryland Rail Trail is one of the most unique hikes in Maryland. Even though it’s long, it’s well worth the journey. On this 23-mile path, you’ll cross over bridges, pass by shimmering bodies of water, and see gorgeous plants. Be sure to read the historical markers along the way. This place has lots of stories to tell. To learn more about this delightful nature trail, read our feature article here. What are the best family-friendly hiking trails in Maryland? There are so many family-friendly nature trails in Maryland. The Cascade Falls Trail, also located inside Patapsco Valley State Park, is under one-mile long, and it leads to a wonderful waterfall. The Savage Mill Trail is only .8 miles long, and it also offers splendid views. Show the little ones the wonders of Maryland nature! They will love the gorgeous woodland views and rippling creeks. For even more fun, visit the boardwalk trail at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp. This hike is only 0.4 miles long, but it’s packed with unique sights. Plus, the pathway is level and easy to follow. You’ll hardly work up a sweat on this breezy stroll. Are there any historic hiking trails in Maryland? There are so many historic nature trails in Maryland. The Piscataway Park Trail is a lovely destination that you’ll want to return to again and again. This 3-mile loop weaves by a colonial farm and rustic bridges. The Maryland Heights Trail, located in Knoxfille, is another fascinating hiking trail in Maryland. Not only does this 2.8-mile trail have splendid views of Harpers Ferry, it’s also loaded with Civil War history. Don’t skip over the historical markers. They are full of incredible information.
The OIYS Visitor Center
bridge hike in Maryland
February 09, 2020
Elisa Regulski
What are the most unique hikes in Maryland? The Western Maryland Rail Trail is one of the most unique hikes in Maryland. Even though it’s long, it’s well worth the journey. On this 23-mile path, you’ll cross over bridges, pass by shimmering bodies of water, and see gorgeous plants. Be sure to read the historical markers along the way. This place has lots of stories to tell. To learn more about this delightful nature trail, read our feature article here. What are the best family-friendly hiking trails in Maryland? There are so many family-friendly nature trails in Maryland. The Cascade Falls Trail, also located inside Patapsco Valley State Park, is under one-mile long, and it leads to a wonderful waterfall. The Savage Mill Trail is only .8 miles long, and it also offers splendid views. Show the little ones the wonders of Maryland nature! They will love the gorgeous woodland views and rippling creeks. For even more fun, visit the boardwalk trail at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp. This hike is only 0.4 miles long, but it’s packed with unique sights. Plus, the pathway is level and easy to follow. You’ll hardly work up a sweat on this breezy stroll. Are there any historic hiking trails in Maryland? There are so many historic nature trails in Maryland. The Piscataway Park Trail is a lovely destination that you’ll want to return to again and again. This 3-mile loop weaves by a colonial farm and rustic bridges. The Maryland Heights Trail, located in Knoxfille, is another fascinating hiking trail in Maryland. Not only does this 2.8-mile trail have splendid views of Harpers Ferry, it’s also loaded with Civil War history. Don’t skip over the historical markers. They are full of incredible information.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
The Western Maryland Rail Trail is one of the most unique hikes in Maryland. Even though it’s long, it’s well worth the journey. On this 23-mile path, you’ll cross over bridges, pass by shimmering bodies of water, and see gorgeous plants. Be sure to read the historical markers along the way. This place has lots of stories to tell. To learn more about this delightful nature trail, read our feature article here.
What are the best family-friendly hiking trails in Maryland?
There are so many family-friendly nature trails in Maryland. The Cascade Falls Trail, also located inside Patapsco Valley State Park, is under one-mile long, and it leads to a wonderful waterfall. The Savage Mill Trail is only .8 miles long, and it also offers splendid views. Show the little ones the wonders of Maryland nature! They will love the gorgeous woodland views and rippling creeks. For even more fun, visit the boardwalk trail at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp. This hike is only 0.4 miles long, but it’s packed with unique sights. Plus, the pathway is level and easy to follow. You’ll hardly work up a sweat on this breezy stroll.
Are there any historic hiking trails in Maryland?
There are so many historic nature trails in Maryland. The Piscataway Park Trail is a lovely destination that you’ll want to return to again and again. This 3-mile loop weaves by a colonial farm and rustic bridges. The Maryland Heights Trail, located in Knoxfille, is another fascinating hiking trail in Maryland. Not only does this 2.8-mile trail have splendid views of Harpers Ferry, it’s also loaded with Civil War history. Don’t skip over the historical markers. They are full of incredible information.
