Have you ever begrudgingly gotten dressed and headed outdoors during winter, only to regret your decision? While the cold can be a pain, the following 10 spots are excellent trails for winter hiking in Maryland that are worth leaving the house for. Plus, they’ll give you an excuse to chug hot chocolate upon your return home. 🙂

1. Patapsco Valley State Park
8020 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043, USA
Flickr / Forsaken Fotos
This sprawling park covers parts of Howard and Baltimore County. While it's understandably crowded during warmer months, winter offers a bit more quiet. Check out the swinging bridge. You won't be sorry.
2. Maryland Heights
489 Harpers Ferry Rd, Knoxville, MD 21758, USA
Flickr / Jeff Walters
You'll find this scenic hike situated on the Potomac River, across from Harpers Ferry, WV. The 2.5-mile trek is moderate but once you reach the top, it's so worth it.
3. The Appalachian Trail's Annapolis Rock Hike
11175 Baltimore National Pike, Myersville, MD 21773, USA
PT Sandiford/AllTrails
While the Appalachian Trail crosses through 40 miles of Maryland, there are several smaller sections you can hike. The Annapolis Rock Trail is about five miles in length and offers spectacular views along the way. Winter is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
4. Swallow Falls State Park
2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, USA
Flickr / Glen Engel-Cox
Head to Garrett County to explore Maryland's most marvelous waterfall in a surreal, frozen state. There's also a 1 1/4 mile trail that follows along the picturesque Youghiogheny River.
5. Antietam Battlefield
Antietam National Cemetery, 302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782, USA
Jonathan M/TripAdvisor
This historic spot lies in Sharpsburg and while it's gorgeous year-round, there's a certain serenity about it in the winter. Check out our previous post about the pictured Bloody Lane.

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6. Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
2880 Grays Rd, Prince Frederick, MD 20678, USA
Flickr / alliecat1881
This hidden sanctuary is located in Calvert County. Follow the winding boardwalks throughout the swamp year-round. In winter, however, parts become frozen over and it's a pretty sight. This area is temporarily closed due to a fire. Check here to find out when it re-opens.
7. Calvert Cliffs State Park
10540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD 20657, USA
Flickr / Forsaken Fotos
This Southern Maryland gem just may be Maryland's most magnificent hike. Because of its astounding scenery, the trails can get pretty crowded during the summer. Explore during winter for a more quiet and private experience.
8. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 2145 Key Wallace Dr, Cambridge, MD 21613, USA
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program
This dreamy wildlife refuge is filled with water views. It's other-worldly during winter.
9. Rocky Gap State Park
12900 Lake Shore Dr, Flintstone, MD 21530, USA
Flickr / Terri
Bundle up and head to this Western Maryland park for chilling views of Lake Habeeb. There are several trails throughout that are perfect for some arctic-like exploring.
10. Elk Neck State Park
4395 Turkey Point Rd, North East, MD 21901, USA
Rebelee Jeyasingh/Google
You'd be surprised just how beautiful this North East park really is during colder months. With water views from several angles and a postcard-worthy lighthouse, this spot is worth braving the cold for.

Any other winter hiking spots you enjoy exploring in Maryland?

If you’re looking for more things to do in the winter in Maryland, you’ll also be interested in these majestic spots that will make you feel like you’re at the North Pole.

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More to Explore

Winter In Maryland

William Suphan | November 22, 2022

What is winter like in Maryland?

This is what winter is like in Maryland:

  • Winter in Maryland lasts for 3.1 months, from December 1 to March 4.
  • Low temperatures during the winter range from 21°F to 31°F and high temperatures average from 36°F to 40°F.
  • Annual snowfall averages in Maryland are between 4.1 inches and 7 inches.
  • The coldest ever recorded temperature during winter in Maryland was -40°F in 1912 at Oakland.

While winter in Maryland gets rather cold, here are 11 things no one tells you about surviving what winter is like in Maryland. 

Where are the best places to visit in Maryland during the winter?

The best places to visit in Maryland during the winter are:

  • Annapolis. This town has a lot of architectural beauty and history and is a great place for sailing and shopping.
  • Eastern Shore. Winter is oyster season on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and many local restaurants are serving them up as fresh as can be.
  • Cumberland. This is the place for outdoor adventure with many hiking trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
  • Sandy Point State Park. Several hiking trails are available here along the coast of Chesapeake Bay, and there is an annual Polar Bear Plunge for the more adventurous.

These are just a few of the best places to visit in Maryland during the winter, and there are several more for you to discover. 

What are the most popular winter activities in Maryland?

The most popular winter activities in Maryland include:

There are many more places to enjoy these and more of the most popular winter activities in Maryland. 

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