17 Things to Do in Maryland for Outdoor Lovers

When it involves outside adventures, Maryland won’t appear to be it has loads however belief me, it’s the excellent place for you! It presents numerous adventures from climbing the paths to kayaking journeys in numerous state parks and extra.

Not restricted to state parks, outside lovers can discover high experiences such because the well-known Assateague Island National Seashore, recognized for its wild horses and gorgeous seashores. Visitors may also go climbing on trails within the Appalachian Mountains, with the difficult terrain of the Maryland Heights Trail and the Annapolis Rock Trail.

For water lovers, kayaking or paddleboarding within the Chesapeake Bay is a should, plus guests can take a ship tour to see the historic lighthouses dotting the shoreline.

17 Things to Do in Maryland for Outdoor Lovers

1. State parks

If you might be on the lookout for a enjoyable outside expertise with good surroundings, Maryland’s state parks supply the proper getaway. 

With over 50 parks to select from, there’s one thing for everybody, from the gorgeous views of Patapsco Valley State Park to the historic ruins of Fort Frederick State Park. Visitors can get pleasure from climbing, biking, or horseback using on the paths, or cool off with a swim within the crystal-clear waters of the state’s many lakes and rivers. 

History fanatics will love exploring the Civil War-era forts and battlefields at Antietam National Battlefield and South Mountain State Park, whereas wildlife fanatics can observe the numerous species of birds and animals on the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. 

And with tenting and cabin choices obtainable, you’ll be able to actually immerse your self in the great thing about Maryland’s state parks and make lasting reminiscences with household and pals.

2. Hiking trails

Maryland is a hiker’s paradise, providing a various vary of trails that cater to all ability ranges and pursuits. 

The in style Billy Goat Trail in Great Falls is a difficult hike that rewards guests with breathtaking views of the Potomac River. Meanwhile, Catoctin Mountain Park boasts a community of trails that cross by gorgeous waterfalls, tranquil streams, and forests. 

For historical past lovers, the Antietam National Battlefield presents an opportunity to stroll within the footsteps of troopers from the Civil War. Whether you’re on the lookout for a difficult ascent or a leisurely stroll, Maryland’s climbing trails supply one thing for everybody (additionally for full climbing learners!), making it the proper vacation spot for a memorable outside journey. You could even spot some native wildlife or uncover hidden gems like waterfalls and rock formations as you make your means round.

3. Nature facilities

For nature lovers on the lookout for a singular technique to discover the nice outdoor, visiting Maryland’s nature facilities is a should! 

From interactive displays and academic applications to guided excursions and particular occasions – there are many actions that can preserve you busy all yr spherical. Whether you’re all for studying about native wildlife or discovering native vegetation and timber, these nature facilities have one thing for everybody. 

You may also take part in hands-on experiences like studying about butterflies or constructing birdhouses, which can assist deepen your appreciation of this stunning state.

4. Go horseback using 

Many horseback using excursions and stables supply guided rides, permitting you to discover the gorgeous surroundings and wildlife of the state in a protected and pleasant means. 

Most of those stables or farms permit everybody whether or not seasoned equestrian or a newbie.

From Assateague Island State Park to Catoctin Mountain Park, you’ll find quite a lot of trails that vary from straightforward strolls for learners to difficult climbs for skilled riders. As you traverse by way of these trails, soak up breathtaking views and observe native wildlife up shut as you make your means round this stunning state. 

For an unforgettable expertise, you’ll be able to’t miss the Assateague Island National Seashore. 

This 37-mile stretch of barrier islands off the coast of Maryland is house to over 400 wild horses and ample wildlife. Here, you’ll be able to discover miles of untouched seashores and distinctive wetlands on horseback, taking within the unimaginable surroundings and recognizing wild horses alongside the best way.

5. Go Golfing

Golfing in Maryland is an expertise like no different. With a few of the greatest programs within the nation, golfers can get pleasure from a spherical of 18 holes surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and lakes. From difficult championship programs to family-friendly government layouts, there’s one thing for everybody right here in Maryland.

Not solely are the programs stunning and well-maintained, however in addition they supply nice facilities resembling bars, eating places, spas, professional retailers, driving ranges, and observe greens with the intention to excellent your recreation earlier than teeing off. Here are a few of the greatest locations to play golf in OC Maryland.

6. Go swimming within the Lakes

Not all of the lakes in Maryland permit swimming however nothing beats taking a dip within the shimmering lakes of Maryland on a sizzling summer season day! From Deep Creek Lake, to Rocky Gap Lake, Maryland’s waterways present an idyllic setting for swimming and different water actions. 

Some lakes have actually crystal-clear waters and luxurious inexperienced environment, some have large swimming holes that guests can throw themselves into and really feel relaxed when spending time round these serene our bodies of water. 

7. Check out some waterfalls

Maryland might not be the primary place that involves thoughts once you consider waterfalls, however the state is definitely house to some actually breathtaking waterfalls. 

From the cascading fantastic thing about Cunningham Falls in Catoctin Mountain Park to the peaceable serenity of Kilgore Falls in Rocks State Park, there’s a waterfall in Maryland for each sort of adventurer. Some waterfalls require a little bit of a hike to achieve, however the reward of gorgeous views and the soothing sound of speeding water makes it nicely well worth the effort.

Some Popular Maryland Waterfalls:

• Cunningham Falls – This 78-foot cascading waterfall is situated within the stunning Catoctin Mountains and is definitely accessible by automobile. The path to the falls is lined with lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for a peaceable picnic or stroll.
• Muddy Creek Falls – This is a crashing 53-foot waterfall situated in Swallow Falls State Park close to Oakland, Maryland. 

8. Enjoy the outside in St Michaels

St. Michaels, Maryland is a pleasant little city that gives guests the proper alternative to flee the craziness of metropolis life and join with the nice outdoor.

A day spent exploring St. Michaels and its surrounding is so value it with scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay, contemporary sea air, and the charming sights and sounds of the city itself. Visitors can lease a motorbike or kayak and discover the numerous trails and waterways surrounding St. Michaels, or just stroll by way of the city’s historic streets and admire the fantastically preserved structure.

Local seafood is a must-try for any customer, and there are many nice eating places in St. Michaels serving up contemporary crab truffles and different scrumptious seafood dishes. You may even make a day journey out of St Michaels and keep in a few of their good mattress and breakfasts. 

9. Go kayaking

Outdoor lovers on the lookout for an unforgettable expertise ought to think about going kayaking in Maryland because the state gives loads of alternatives to discover nature from a singular perspective. 

Maryland presents a few of the greatest kayaking alternatives within the nation as a result of its miles of shoreline and abundance of bays, creeks, and rivers. From calm waters to rapids that can check your expertise, guests can discover one thing for all ranges of paddlers right here. 

10. Explore Assateague National Seashore

Exploring the Assateague National Seashore in Maryland is a must-do for any nature lover. The park spans over 37 miles of pristine shoreline, dunes, and marshland, making it one of the vital distinctive and numerous ecosystems within the nation. Visitors can get pleasure from climbing, biking, or horseback using on the miles of trails that wind by way of the park, or spend a day lounging on the seashore.

The park additionally presents improbable alternatives for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. One wonderful factor about this place is the wild horses. They roam across the seashore freely all day and are a sight to behold! 

11. Smell some lavender

Visiting lavender farms is such a sensory and calming expertise even for outside lovers. It won’t be adventurous like mountaineering or kayaking, however it gives numerous calm and permits guests to absorb the great thing about the panorama whereas exploring the huge array of merchandise constructed from these fragrant flowers.

From important oils, bathtub salts, candles, and soaps to sachets and teas—there are numerous methods to benefit from the calming scent of lavender. 

Visitors may even create their very own distinctive mix utilizing oils from totally different varieties. There are additionally loads of actions designed particularly for teenagers – like scavenger hunts, academic talks about how lavender is harvested and processed into important oils, and crafting classes the place they’ll make their very own perfumes out of pure substances. 

12. Enjoy the great thing about Sunflowers

If you’re on the lookout for a shocking and distinctive outside journey in Maryland, visiting sunflower fields must be on the high of your checklist! The vibrant and cheerful flowers towering over you create a wide ranging and unforgettable expertise.

One of one of the best issues about visiting sunflower fields is the chance for gorgeous pictures – the colourful yellow petals make the proper backdrop for a household picture shoot or a romantic couple’s outing. Plus, lots of the fields supply extra actions like hayrides and pumpkin patches, making it a great day journey for the entire household. 

13. Ocean City boardwalk

The Ocean City Boardwalk is among the most iconic and beloved sights on the East Coast. Spanning about 3 miles alongside the Atlantic Ocean in Maryland, this historic boardwalk has been a well-liked vacation spot for generations of households on the lookout for enjoyable and rest.

There is a lot to do right here just like the amusement park rides to the carnival video games. Visitors can hop on a curler coaster, take a stroll on the sandy seashores, buy groceries, or seize some ice cream whereas soaking within the solar. There are nice household motels on the boardwalk to spend the weekend.

14. Ziplining

If you’re on the lookout for an thrilling and adrenaline-filled journey, ziplining in Maryland is the proper exercise for you! With breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay and quite a few forests to discover, Maryland presents a few of the greatest zip-lining experiences within the nation. The zipline routes are nice for each learners and seasoned zipliners

15. Grab some sunshine on the seashore

Heading to the seashore in Maryland is a good way to get pleasure from a few of the greatest that nature has to supply. Visitors can spend an thrilling day trip with household and pals, or just chill out and soak up some gorgeous surroundings. There are miles of sandy shorelines ready to be explored in numerous components of Maryland resembling Ocean City and Assateague National Seashore plus a number of within the Chesapeake Bay space. 

16. Go Crabbing

With a few of the greatest crabbing spots within the nation, Maryland is known for its blue crabs. You can catch crabs off the shore, from a pier, and even on a ship. One of one of the best spots to crab is the Chesapeake Bay the place guests can get an important view of the clear blue waters and ample wildlife.

There can also be all kinds of crabs for anglers to focus on. From blue crabs to rockfish and even tender shells throughout sure instances of the yr, there isn’t any restrict.

17. Go tenting

If pitching a tent outdoors and sleeping underneath the celebrities sounds wonderful to you, then Maryland is a superb state for that.

Its campsites supply quite a lot of facilities, from primary tent tenting to RV hookups and cabin leases, so you’ll be able to select the extent of consolation that most closely fits your wants. During the day, you’ll be able to discover the numerous climbing trails, mountain biking routes, and fishing spots that Maryland has to supply. At night time, you’ll be able to collect across the campfire with others and benefit from the night time.

Frequently requested questions on issues to do in Maryland for outside lovers

What leisure and leisure actions do you get pleasure from in southern Maryland?

When it involves outside leisure actions, Southern Maryland is the place to be. Visitors can discover loads to do right here resembling kayaking and fishing on the Potomac River, biking and climbing alongside the paths of Patuxent River State Park, and extra. 

For those that choose a slower tempo, there are various golf programs to discover, or perhaps even go to one of many state parks for historic websites resembling St. Mary’s City or Point Lookout Lighthouse. There are additionally loads of alternatives for chook watching, stargazing, and tenting all through Southern Maryland. 

What are three in style leisure actions?

Three in style leisure actions embrace climbing, biking, and swimming. Other leisure actions which can be rising in popularity embrace kayaking, mountaineering, yoga, and golf. 

In addition to bodily actions resembling these, different types of recreation may also be loved resembling board video games or trivia competitions.

Final ideas on issues to do in Maryland for outside lovers

As you’ll be able to see, Maryland is a superb vacation spot for outside lovers. No matter your pursuits, seeking to hike, bike, kayak or just take within the surroundings, there are a great deal of actions obtainable that can fill your days with journey and enjoyable. 

From the Appalachian Trail to Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland has one thing for everybody who loves being outdoor. So when you’re on the lookout for an unforgettable journey within the nice outdoor, pack your baggage and head to Maryland – you gained’t be upset!

Lola is the founding father of Deyewa, the place she gives households with nice trip concepts and ideas for planning actions and issues to do in Maryland. She is a spouse and mother of three younger children and loves to assist others expertise and discover the world round them.