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Best horseback riding hikes in Maryland
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Best horseback riding hikes in Maryland

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Maryland.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Kilgore Falls Trail

Harford County, Maryland · star 4.4 (33) · 1.1 km · Est. 17 min

2

Easy

Torrey C Brown Trail from Paper Mill Flats

Baltimore County, Maryland · star 4.3 (31) · 31.6 km · Est. 6 hrs 46 min

3

Easy

Middle Run and North Branch Patapsco River Knot

Carroll County, Maryland · star 4.3 (37) · 5.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 14 min

4

Medium

Catoctin National Recreation Trail - Short from Catoctin Furnace Road

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.5 (35) · 8.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

5

Easy

Triadelphia Reservoir West Shore Walk

Montgomery County, Maryland · star 4.5 (29) · 14.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 6 min

6

Easy

Big Elk Creek Loop

Cecil County, Maryland · star 4.4 (27) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs

7

Easy

Furnace Branch Trail

Frederick County, Maryland · star 4.4 (28) · 4.1 km · Est. 51 min

8

Easy

Rockburn Branch Loop Trail

Howard County, Maryland · star 4.4 (35) · 3.8 km · Est. 55 min

9

Medium

Garrett's Pass - Cascade Falls Loop Trail

Howard County, Maryland · star 4.5 (41) · 4.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 15 min

10

Easy

Cherry Tree Hill to Liberty Reservoir Loop

Carroll County, Maryland · star 4.4 (38) · 12.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 5 min

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Reviews for horseback riding hikes in Maryland

Kyoko Swift DDS avatar

Kilgore Falls Trail

ExplorerTracer24 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Gov. Rodney Nikolaus avatar

Torrey C Brown Trail from Paper Mill Flats

SequoiaAdventurer82 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Eloisa Zboncak avatar

Middle Run and North Branch Patapsco River Knot

BackpackerBushstrider99 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Felicitas Durgan I avatar

Catoctin National Recreation Trail - Short from Catoctin Furnace Road

RoverRidgechaser40 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Aurea Brakus avatar

Triadelphia Reservoir West Shore Walk

WandererWanderer48 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes 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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