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OutsideAtlas Blog

421 articles — hiking safety primers, beginner guides, camping strategy, and state-by-state ranked lists. Every post is grounded in real trail data.

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Maryland

8 ranked-list guides for hiking and parks in this state.

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Complete catalog

8 articles. Newest first.

Hiker on a high alpine ridge above a glacial valley at dawnPhoto: Tobias Mrzyk
State Rankings

The 10 Longest Hiking Trails in Maryland, Ranked

Maryland's longest mapped hiking trails, ranked by distance with notes on what makes each route worth the commitment.

Hiker on a high alpine ridge above a glacial valley at dawnPhoto: Tobias Mrzyk
State Rankings

Maryland's 10 Most Punishing Trails by Elevation Gain

Steep is hard. These are the ten Maryland trails with the most total elevation gain — quad-burners earned by hard climbing.

Cascading waterfall through a green moss-covered ravinePhoto: Maddi Bazzocco
State Rankings

The Best Beginner-Friendly Hikes in Maryland

Ten gentle, well-marked Maryland trails perfect for first-time hikers, families, or recovery days.

Hiker on a high alpine ridge above a glacial valley at dawnPhoto: Tobias Mrzyk
State Rankings

The 10 Most Challenging Hikes in Maryland

Maryland's ten hardest hikes — expert difficulty, big mileage, or serious exposure. Reserved for experienced hikers.

Going down the Grand Canyon. Seeing our destination from afar. So worth! If you find this picture useful, consider donating! Venmo: @diegonachoPhoto: Diego Lozano
Parks & Travel

The Best National Parks & Recreation Areas in Maryland

Federal parks and recreation areas in Maryland ranked by what they actually offer hikers and campers, not just popularity.

Hiker on a high alpine ridge above a glacial valley at dawnPhoto: Tobias Mrzyk
State Rankings

Best Waterfall Hikes in Maryland: 10 Trails to See Falls Up Close

Maryland's best hikes to named waterfalls — from short family-friendly viewpoints to all-day cascade chasing.

Sunlit forest trail winding through tall conifersPhoto: Sergei Akulich
State Rankings

Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Maryland: Leash-Welcome Trails

Hikes in Maryland where dogs are explicitly welcome — picked for moderate length, manageable terrain, and verified leash access.

Sunlit forest trail winding through tall conifersPhoto: Sergei Akulich
State Rankings

Best Family-Friendly Hikes in Maryland: Easy Trails for Kids

Short, gentle Maryland trails sized for kids, grandparents, and recovery days. The ones we'd take our own families on.