How to Hike Around Baltimore, Maryland

There are nearly 150 hiking and walking trails in the Baltimore area. These trails represent different challenges for hikers with various stages of experience. Be prepared for the various conditions of the various trail types by wearing proper clothing and shoes, and buy carrying proper gear to make your experience the best possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Maps and books focusing on Baltimore trails
  • Clothing and shoes suited for your desired hikes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy a book of Baltimore trails or contact the Baltimore Recreation and Parks Department for a list of area trails and maps. Contact local hiking clubs about membership and advice and to find out about any guided group hikes that can be scheduled. Decide what trails that you want to explore based on your skill level.

    • 2

      Plan your clothing and shoe choices based on the trails that you plan to explore and the weather for the time of the year that you plan to hike. Water-resistant shoes or boots are always advisable, and they should fit well and be comfortable and well broken in. Wear loose fitting comfortable clothing that you can you hike in comfortably. Wear a weather-resistant parka, waterproof gloves and a warm hat when hiking during harsh Baltimore winters.

    • 3

      Choose a partner to walk with you so that you are not alone in case of emergency. Pack a first aid kit with you and a list of contact numbers for local medical and law enforcement agencies. Carry a cell phone if possible to contact help if needed. Understand the area that you are hiking in, and determine the quickest way back to safety or to a planned meeting place if someone gets lost.

    • 4

      Plan a trip to a trail that connects to the Appalachian Trail such as the Crampton Gap, Fox Gap or Turners Gap Trail if you are an advanced hiker. The Appalachian Trail extends over 2,000 miles between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine. Take the time to time to plan and prepare for long hikes such as this and make practice trips at various times of the year to become acclimated to a variety of weather conditions that you could face.