Maryland

Maryland

Welcome to Maryland

Maryland’s section of the Appalachian Trail attracts hikers of all abilities and interests, providing an easily-accessible escape into nature for millions of residents within the Baltimore and D.C. metro areas. The Trail features pastoral views and wooded, gentle ridges with relatively little elevation gain and loss in a combination of state and federal lands.

40.9

A.T. Miles in State

7

Shelters

230'–1,880'

Elevation Range

Did You Know?

Only about 41 miles from top to bottom, the A.T. in Maryland passes several historic sites as it winds along the crest of South Mountain, including the original Washington Monument, the only war correspondents monument in the United States, and several historic Civil War battlefields. Annapolis Rock is a striking outcropping on the South Mountain ridgeline with stunning views to the west. A popular day hike, A.T. visitors can chat with the resident caretaker during the summer months before catching a beautiful sunset from this iconic A.T. vista.

Need to Know

Camping

Camping is allowed only in designated overnight sites in Maryland to protect the surrounding forest from the high use this section of the Trail sees each year.

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Maryland Clubs & Partners

Potomac Appalachian Trail Club

Potomac Appalachian Trail Club

The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club manages, maintains and protects the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Georgia with volunteers from its membership and the interested public. The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club promotes the appreciation of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and natural outdoor places through education and recreational activities, with an emphasis on conservation ethics and protection of the forests, their natural resources and wilderness areas.

Visit PATC Website

Mountain Club of Maryland

The oldest hiking club in Maryland (since 1934) and the premier hiking group in the state. We are a Baltimore-based volunteer organization that is centered on hiking. We support Leave No Trace principles, work on local trails and on the nation’s first National Scenic Trail, the Appalachian Trail. We organize and lead hikes and other outdoor activities, such as camping, seasonal canoe trips and backpacking weekends. We offer seasonal canoe trips and backpacking ventures. We have a year-round schedule with hikes in local parks and paths, in State Parks, National Parks, National Forests, and sites in and around Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, New Jersey and Delaware.

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A.T. Communities in Maryland

There are 2 communities along the Appalachian Trail in Maryland that have been recognized by the A.T. Community™ program. These towns are assets for everyone visiting the A.T. and nearby public lands, providing restaurants, supplies, recreation, historic resources, and much more!

Scenic view of landscape with rocky outcropping in foreground

Charissa Hipp

News

Popular Maryland Section of Appalachian Trail Protected

ATC and the Trust for Public Land work together to secure 3-acre property that will safeguard the Trail near the popular Weverton Cliffs overlooking the Potomac River.

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Report an Incident

While the Appalachian Trail is a relatively safe place to visit, that does not mean that there are not potential dangers while you are hiking or camping. If you see something, say something — this will help us keep the A.T. as safe as possible for our visitors.

Incident Reporting

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