The Annapolis Rock Trail Hike is not only one of the best day hikes near Frederick, but one of the most popular hikes in Maryland. After doing it recently with Nicole, I can see why. The 5.3-mile up and back length is perfect for a day hike, and you are rewarded with beautiful views.
Annapolis Rock Trail Hike Basics
- Location: Just off Exit 42 of I-70 South of Hagerstown (see below)
- Distance from Frederick: 14.4 Miles, ~25 Minutes
- Parking and Fees: Ample Parking at the Annapolis Rock Trail Head (but fills quickly). No Fees. Annapolis Rock Parking Address Link
- Trailhead: Look for the “Welcome to the Appalachian Trail” sign at the top of the parking lot
- Total Distance: 5.3 Miles, Out and Back
- Duration: ~3 Hours
- Elevation Gain: 780 Feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Dog Friendly: Yes
What You'll Experience on the Annapolis Rock Trail Hike
This is a classic ‘reward’ hike. You’ll start by reading about the Appalachian Trail at the trailhead (there are actually multiple day hikes that begin from this parking lot).
The Appalachian Trails runs for 41 miles in Maryland with its classic white blazes. (Fun Fact: my aunt was president of the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club when I was young, and took me on a maintenance trip where I got to paint white blazes on trees).
The first half mile of the trail is alongside I-70 and beneath US-40, both of which create plenty of traffic noise, and you’ll initially wonder why anyone would consider this hike peaceful.
But fear not. Soon, you’ll be climbing the Appalachian Trail along a wide, comfortable, and peaceful trail, with everything building towards a rewarding finish.
Along the way, you’ll pass signs for an offshoot trail to the Pine Knob Shelter. This is a popular camping area for through hikers on the AT.
After ~2.2 miles, look for signs for the connector trail to “Annapolis Rocks,” which is only 0.3 miles from your reward.
The Rewards of the Annapolis Rock Views
No one is going to identify Maryland as a state with epic views from towering peaks or stunning mountain summits. But here and there, you’ll find amazing panoramas. Annapolis Rock is one of them.
After 2.5 miles, you’ll finally reach Annapolis Rock, with breathtaking views of the Cumberland Valley before you. You’ll likely see the lake at Greenbrier State Park.
The views are great anytime, we did it after work at sunset, and the colors were splendid.
Additional Tips and Suggestions for the Annapolis Rock Hike
- Finishing the hike means retracing your steps back to the parking lot
- There’s an option to continue on to Black Rock Cliff, ~1 more mile for more rocks and views
- Bring plenty of water, especially in summer
- Also, I recommend bringing a ‘summit beer.’
- Suggested refreshment stop on way back to Frederick:
More Information and Resources
