Watch CBS News

Best Hiking Trails In Baltimore

Maryland has some of the most scenic and diverse trails to hike. You will experience the best that nature has to offer with some of the most enjoyed hiking trails around Baltimore. The hiking trails in Maryland are easy to access as well as provide lodging, dining and trail services. Also, you could find access to bike rentals and shopping venues so you will find some of the best places to hike in the Maryland area. As you continue to read on, you will find some of the best trails in Maryland to get the most out of your hiking desires.
Patapsco State Park

As one of Maryland's first state parks, the valley and resources have been enjoyed by many over the the years. Opening in 1907, Patapsco State Park has grown to become an excellent place to hike around the Baltimore area. Open from 9 a.m. to sunset, the park holds certain activities outside of the regular park hours such as fishing, boat launching and permitted hunting. Also, this park is pet friendly and pets are allowed in such areas as the Avalon, Orange Grove, Glen Artney areas of  Patapsco Valley State Park. This also includes the McKeldin Area as well as the day-use area of the Hilton Area.

Double Rock Park

Double Rock Park provides a peaceful place to picnic and or hike. The Double Rock Park trail is 1.6 miles long and is looped around the Parkville area. One of the special characteristics this park has is its abundance of nature with a blend of contemporary activities. When you arrive to Double Rock Park you will see a beautiful blend of wild flowers while walking by one of the most beautiful flowing streams. You'll also find baseball diamonds, playgrounds for children as well as easily accessible restrooms. Double Rock Park is a versatile park that serves the best hiking places as well as a recreational area.

Related: Best Summer Backpacking Trips Near Baltimore

Gwynns Falls Trails

Known as a unique valley connector for Baltimore, the Gwynn Falls Trail is considered to be the most complete system of watershed parks in the Baltimore area.The Greenway has over 2000 acres worth of publicly owned parkland within the Gwynns Falls system. The best part about the trail is that it travels through west and southwest Baltimore City. A well known fact about this trail is that these parks are approximately 20 miles of paths that include wonderful hiking in an urban area. Over 30 neighborhoods with historical landmarks and unique environmental educational activities are readily available for hikers on this trail. This trail also has a touch of contemporary amenities such as fishing, picnicking and biking!

Gunpowder Falls State Park

Gunpowder was established in 1959 in order to protect the Gunpoweder River and the big and little Gunpowder valleys. Now, Gunpowder falls is considered to be one of Maryland's largest state parks. This park allows over 18,000 acres in both Harford and Baltimore county. Regarding the hike, the Muskrat trail is short and goes through the marsh. The best aspect of this hiking journey is that it features an observation deck and provides a place for your canoe and/or kayaking options.

Soldiers Delight

Located in Baltimore County, Soldiers Delight is a natural area in Owings Mills. What is so special about this hiking area is the fact that delight has over 39 rare and endangered plant species and soon to be a revival of natural serpentine habitat due to a five year effort to remove 1,000 acres of pines. While you hike on this trail, you will notice the fact that there are rocks, minerals, and insects that are unique to this area. This trail is seven miles long and comes with a visiting center, reference library, and real cultural history of the area.

Related:  Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails Near Baltimore

Nelson Barnes II is a freelance writer covering all things Baltimore. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.