Maryland is jam-packed with beautiful hikes, trails, biking paths, and greenways. It’s so easy to find a spot to take in the fresh air! If you’re looking for a new place to explore here in the Old Line State, you’ve got to check out the Western Maryland Rail Trail. It’s one of the best hikes in Maryland, and if you’re a fan of cycling, you’re sure to fall in love. This local gem is underrated, which means you might have it all to yourself. After just one visit, though, you’ll see why it’s truly deserving of so much more attention. With scenic views and tons of history, this spot is worth visiting at least once.
Western Maryland Rail Trail is about 23 miles in length, paralleling the C & O Canal.
Google Maps
The paved path begins in Big Pool, Maryland…
Flickr / Kordite
…and is very easy to navigate along the way. Mile markers are visible, and the flat surface makes this a great adventure for all ages.
Google / Micah Delosier
From children to the elderly, everyone will enjoy the views along the way.
Google / Micah Delosier
Walk, jog, or cycle along Western Maryland Rail Trail, where you can explore a portion or ride the entire 23 miles.
Flickr / neilfein
Natural scenery varies along the way. This rocky stretch near Hancock is one of our favorite spots.
Flickr / Jake Slagle
Cross over bridges…
Google / Micah Delosier
…that will provide plenty of water views…
Google / Micah Delosier
…and be sure to stop and read the history postings along your travels. Many structures in the area date back to the early 1900s.
Google / Tom Z
So, next day you’re craving the outdoors, consider a visit to Western Maryland Rail Trail. Bring the family and have a beautiful day trip to remember.
Google / Micah Delosier
For more information, including current park conditions and any operating hour updates, visit the Western Maryland Rail Trail official trail website.
Google Maps
Flickr / Kordite
Google / Micah Delosier
Flickr / neilfein
Flickr / Jake Slagle
Google / Tom Z
If you’re always looking for another scenic adventure, check out this fascinating Maryland rock maze, which is the perfect destination for a family day trip!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in maryland June 17, 2022 Kim Magaraci What are the best hikes in Maryland for families with kids? If you’re trying to introduce young children to the great outdoors, it can be intimidating! It’s wise to pick a few short and easy trails to help foster a love of nature without adding any stress or struggle – that comes later, when they’re hopelessly addicted to hiking! Some of our favorite short and kid-friendly hikes in Maryland include trails on Assateague Island, the short Battle Creek Cypress Swamp boardwalk trail, and the easiest trails at Rocky Gap State Park. For some more ideas, check out our list of the top kid-friendly hikes in Maryland. Are there any scenic waterfall hikes in Maryland? The Old Line State has plenty of waterfalls! You can find two cascades in one spot at Swallow Falls State Park, so that’s always a favorite. The Cascade Falls trail is an easy one that everyone in the family will love, so that belongs on your Maryland bucket list for sure. If you can’t get enough waterfalls in Maryland, head out on our Ultimate Maryland Waterfall Road Trip and see the best of the state on a journey you’ll remember for the rest of your life. There’s so much beauty to see in Maryland!
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in maryland
June 17, 2022
Kim Magaraci
What are the best hikes in Maryland for families with kids? If you’re trying to introduce young children to the great outdoors, it can be intimidating! It’s wise to pick a few short and easy trails to help foster a love of nature without adding any stress or struggle – that comes later, when they’re hopelessly addicted to hiking! Some of our favorite short and kid-friendly hikes in Maryland include trails on Assateague Island, the short Battle Creek Cypress Swamp boardwalk trail, and the easiest trails at Rocky Gap State Park. For some more ideas, check out our list of the top kid-friendly hikes in Maryland. Are there any scenic waterfall hikes in Maryland? The Old Line State has plenty of waterfalls! You can find two cascades in one spot at Swallow Falls State Park, so that’s always a favorite. The Cascade Falls trail is an easy one that everyone in the family will love, so that belongs on your Maryland bucket list for sure. If you can’t get enough waterfalls in Maryland, head out on our Ultimate Maryland Waterfall Road Trip and see the best of the state on a journey you’ll remember for the rest of your life. There’s so much beauty to see in Maryland!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
If you’re trying to introduce young children to the great outdoors, it can be intimidating! It’s wise to pick a few short and easy trails to help foster a love of nature without adding any stress or struggle – that comes later, when they’re hopelessly addicted to hiking! Some of our favorite short and kid-friendly hikes in Maryland include trails on Assateague Island, the short Battle Creek Cypress Swamp boardwalk trail, and the easiest trails at Rocky Gap State Park. For some more ideas, check out our list of the top kid-friendly hikes in Maryland.
Are there any scenic waterfall hikes in Maryland?
The Old Line State has plenty of waterfalls! You can find two cascades in one spot at Swallow Falls State Park, so that’s always a favorite. The Cascade Falls trail is an easy one that everyone in the family will love, so that belongs on your Maryland bucket list for sure. If you can’t get enough waterfalls in Maryland, head out on our Ultimate Maryland Waterfall Road Trip and see the best of the state on a journey you’ll remember for the rest of your life. There’s so much beauty to see in Maryland!
