The best walks and hikes around Baltimore
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Hikes around Baltimore navigate a varied landscape that includes urban waterfronts, city parks, and forested areas surrounding reservoirs. The terrain is generally characterized by low elevation, with many routes following paved paths or well-maintained trails along rivers and shorelines. The region offers a mix of urban greenways and more natural settings in parks just outside the city center.
Best hiking trails around Baltimore
- The most popular hiking route is Baltimore Waterfront Promenade — Inner Harbor, a 6.0 mile (9.6 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 25 minutes to complete. This route follows the city's shoreline, passing through the Inner Harbor area.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Canton Waterfront Park to Fell's Point via Baltimore Waterfront Promenade, an easy 4.5 mile (7.2 km) path. The trail offers views of the Patapsco River and connects several waterfront parks.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Stony Run Walking Path loop — Wyman Park, a 2.7 mile (4.3 km) trail leading through a wooded stream valley, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Baltimore is defined by urban waterfront promenades, forested stream valleys, and trails around local reservoirs. The network provides mostly easy and moderate options suitable for a range of fitness levels.
- The routes in Baltimore are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 790 hikers have used komoot to explore Baltimore's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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10.4km
02:40
40m
70m
Hike the 6.4-mile Herring Run Greenway, a moderate trail through a stream-valley oasis in Baltimore, featuring woods and wildlife.
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2.87km
00:43
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Take an easy stroll along the Baltimore Waterfront Promenade, a pleasant hike that offers continuous views of the Patapsco River and the bustling Inner Harbor. This easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) route involves a minimal elevation gain of just 14 feet (4 metres), making it perfect for a quick 43-minute outing. As you walk, you'll pass by historic ships and iconic city sights, including the National Aquarium and the distinctive Domino Sugar Factory, blending urban charm with glimpses of Baltimore's industrial heritage. The paved path provides a smooth terrain, ideal for a leisurely walk where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the waterfront.
The Baltimore Waterfront Promenade is accessible for all skill levels, offering a straightforward path without complex navigation. To ensure a pleasant walking experience, please note that bicycles are generally not permitted on the promenade. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider starting your hike early in the morning or later in the evening, especially during the warmer summer months, to avoid larger crowds. The route is well-integrated into the city, making it easy to reach by public transport or by finding nearby parking options.
This urban trail is notable for connecting several of Baltimore's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Fells Point and Canton, allowing you to experience the city's diverse character firsthand. It provides a unique perspective on the city's maritime history and its ongoing revitalization, offering a dynamic backdrop for your walk. The promenade serves as a fantastic introduction to Baltimore's waterfront, inviting you to explore further into its historic districts and modern attractions.
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1
hikers
2.51km
00:38
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Baltimore Waterfront Promenade, a route that offers continuous views of the Patapsco River and the bustling Inner Harbor. This accessible path covers 1.6 miles (2.5 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 24 feet (7 metres), making it a relaxed experience you can complete in about 38 minutes. As you walk, you'll pass marinas, historic ships, and the iconic National Aquarium, providing a dynamic urban landscape.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the promenade features a varied, mostly paved surface that is generally smooth and flat. While largely even, be aware that some brick sections can be uneven, so watch your step. The route is also largely accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it a great choice for families looking for an enjoyable outing.
This promenade stands out as one of the best urban walks in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, blending modern developments with the city's rich past. You might spot the historic Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse or the Dolphin Fountain along the way, adding unique points of interest to your journey. It's a perfect way to experience the vibrant atmosphere and historical charm of Baltimore's waterfront.
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4.76km
01:16
50m
30m
Hike the easy 3.0-mile Gwynns Falls Trail in Baltimore, winding through urban forest with diverse scenery and historical points of interest.
21.3km
05:40
250m
160m
The Jones Falls Trail presents a challenging hike, covering 13.3 miles (21.3 km) with an elevation gain of 828 feet (252 metres). This difficult route typically takes around 5 hours and 39 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will experience a unique blend of natural beauty and urban exploration, winding through serene wooded sections along the Jones Falls River. Keep an eye out for herons in the quieter stretches before the path transitions into more bustling city environments, passing through the expansive Druid Hill Park with its rolling woodlands and historical monuments.
The trail is easily accessible from various points across Baltimore, with multiple access points making it convenient to start your hike. Its proximity to the light rail also provides good public transport options. Be aware that this is a multi-use path, so you will be sharing it with cyclists throughout your journey. We recommend wearing appropriate footwear, as some sections of the trail can be steep or rocky.
This route offers a diverse journey that seamlessly blends natural landscapes with urban and historical attractions. Beyond the wooded river sections, you will eventually gain views of the Baltimore Waterfront as you approach the Inner Harbor. The trail provides a comprehensive way to experience both the natural and developed sides of the city.
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Tips from the Community
Herring Run Park hosts the Herring Run Greenway, a 4.2-mile loop trail accessible to bikers, runners, and hikers. The park features the serene Herring Run River, has a wooded environment, and is open throughout the year.
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This is a beautiful waterside park that hosts a memorial to the Korean War. From here the waterfront promenade begins to make its way along the dockside into center harbor, and as you set off you get great views across Northwest Harbor to Fort McHenry.
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Leakin Park, in Baltimore, is a vast urban oasis featuring wooded trails, historic structures, and scenic streams. It offers diverse recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, biking, and the ideal environment for a family day out.
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Herring Run Park hosts the Herring Run Greenway, a 4.2-mile loop trail accessible to bikers, runners, and hikers. The park features the serene Herring Run River, has a wooded environment, and is open throughout the year.
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Taylor's Grove is a small patch of forest within Druid Hills Park that was planted by Matthew Taylor, a tree-loving citizen of Baltimore, in the early 1900s.
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Step back in time to 1919 when the War Mothers of World War I crafted the poignant Grove of Remembrance in Druid Hill Park. A testament to sacrifice, this arboretum, graced by a substantial pavilion near the Jones Fall Trail, stands as a timeless memorial.
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This is a beautiful waterside park that hosts a memorial to the Korean War. From here the waterfront promenade begins to make its way along the dockside into center harbor, and as you set off you get great views across Northwest Harbor to Fort McHenry.
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The waterfall is a nice way to view Jones Falls as it flows south through Baltimore. The trail and steps down to the falls are a little decrepit and there is lots of graffiti.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many dog-friendly hiking trails near Baltimore?
Yes, many parks and trails in the Baltimore area welcome dogs on a leash. Patapsco Valley State Park is a popular choice for dog owners, offering miles of varied trails. For a more relaxed, flat walk, the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail (formerly the NCR Trail) is another excellent option where you and your canine companion can cover long distances.
What are the best hikes for families with children?
For a family-friendly outing, the Cylburn Arboretum loop is a wonderful choice. It's a short, easy walk through beautiful gardens and wooded paths. Another great spot is Oregon Ridge Park, which is highly regarded by local families for its playground and accessible nature trails.
Can I find any challenging hikes in the Baltimore area?
While the immediate Baltimore area is known for easier trails, you can find more challenging terrain in Patapsco Valley State Park. Trails there often feature steep sections with rocks and roots. For a true challenge, experienced hikers often head to nearby access points for the Appalachian Trail, such as the ascents to Annapolis Rock or Weverton Cliffs, which reward you with panoramic views.
Where can I find hikes with waterfalls near Baltimore?
Cascade Falls in Patapsco Valley State Park is a well-known destination for a waterfall hike. The trail to the falls involves some light scrambling over rocks and roots. For another beautiful option, consider a trip to Rocks State Park, which is home to Kilgore Falls, a serene and picturesque waterfall.
What are some good trails for beginners?
If you're new to hiking, the Stony Run Walking Path loop is an excellent starting point. It's a relatively flat and short trail through a pleasant wooded area. The Sea Wall Trail at Fort McHenry National Monument is another fantastic option, offering a flat, paved path with great views of the harbor.
Are there any good circular hikes?
Yes, there are many great loop trails. The Herring Run Greenway via Lake Montebello loop offers a longer circuit that combines a lakeside path with a greenway trail. For a more rugged loop, the Avalon Loop in Patapsco Valley State Park is a local favorite that includes varied terrain and a historic swinging bridge.
What are the hiking options around the local reservoirs?
The reservoirs near Baltimore offer miles of scenic trails. Loch Raven Reservoir is a serene escape with numerous paths that wind along the shoreline through forests and fields. Prettyboy Reservoir also provides a network of trails suitable for various skill levels, allowing you to enjoy peaceful hikes with beautiful water views.
How do other hikers rate the trails around Baltimore?
The trails around Baltimore are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the region's surprising diversity, from the peaceful, wooded stream valleys like the Gwynns Falls Trail to the scenic urban paths along the waterfront.
What's a good hike for scenic views?
For stunning urban and water views, the Canton Waterfront Park to Fell's Point walk is hard to beat, especially around sunrise or sunset. If you're seeking natural vistas, the King and Queen Seat at Rocks State Park offers a dramatic rock outcrop with commanding views of the surrounding forest.
How many hiking trails are available around Baltimore?
There are over 50 hiking routes to explore around Baltimore on komoot. The selection is dominated by easy and moderate trails, with 48 rated as easy and 9 as moderate, ensuring plenty of options for casual walkers and seasoned hikers alike.
Can I get to any trailheads using public transport?
Yes, some trails are accessible via public transit. The Gwynns Falls Trail, an urban greenway, has several access points within the city that can be reached by bus. Similarly, trails within Druid Hill Park are easily accessible. For parks further out, like Patapsco Valley, public transport options are more limited, and driving is often more practical.
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