What are the best Maryland hikes for Families? Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker and mom, Janet Jefferson discusses hikes suitable for everyone in the family. A variety of trails for all abilities have been chosen, some leading to magnificent views, others to waterfalls, and some that are fun for rock hopping.
Trails have been evaluated for length and difficulty as well as any amenities. Plus some tips on where to look for as you hike, since many trails reveal hidden surprises if you know where they are.
Keep trails clean and follow the hikers rule: “Take only pictures. Leave only footsteps.” Most of all, enjoy your time outside.
Easy Maryland Hikes for Families
Patuxent Wildlife Refuge, South Tract. Cash Lake Loop
Rapids Bridge Loop, Rock Creek Park. Creek portion of rapids bridge loop, cross rapids bridge to beach drive or valley view trail.
Sligo Creek Trail, Takoma Park/Silverspring
Boundary Bridge Loop, Chevy Chase
Wheaton Regional Park, Wheaton-Glenmont
Kingman Island, NE DC
Roosevelt Island, east of Rosslyn
Flag Ponds Nature Park, Lusby
North Point State Park, Edgemere
Moderate Maryland Hikes for Families
National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Calvert Cliffs, Lusby
Broad Creek Trail, Annapolis
Piscataway Park, Accokeek
South River Farm Park, Edgewater
Burnt Mills, Kemp Mill. South/East: North West Branch Trail or North/West: Rachel Carson Greenway Trail
Fort De Russy/Milkhouse Ford Loop, Rock Creek Park
Difficult Maryland Hikes for Families
Billy Goat Trail, Section A (one way). Return along canal. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Potomac
