frederick excursions - EpicBend

Little Bennett Bike Trails (Biking Guide Near Frederick MD)

Glenn VanLandingham — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:03:48 +0000

Little Bennett Regional Park offers some of the best beginner-friendly mountain biking trails near Frederick, Maryland.

Located in Clarksburg just off I-270, the park features miles of scenic forest singletrack, gravel connectors, and moderate loop rides suitable for families and recreational riders. With over 25 miles of natural surface trails, Little Bennett is one of the top places for outdoor biking in Montgomery County.

Read on to learn more about one of the best bike trails near Frederick for you and your family to enjoy.

What Makes the Little Bennett Bike Trails Ideal?

Nicole and I spend much of our time in Bend Oregon, which we blog about on this site. Bend is considered one of the premier mountain biking destinations in America.

While no one will confuse Frederick mountain biking with Bend, you can find some great trail riding in the Frederick area. The Frederick Watershed Mountain Biking Trails are particularly well known for hard-core mountain bikers.

But that’s not you. You aren’t looking for black diamond riding, rough and tumble trails that require highly technical biking skills.

What you are looking for is place to get outside, preferably into the forest, onto bike trails that are wild but not overly bumpy, but will challenge you occasionally and give you some thrills.

Basically, a place to take those hybrid mountain bikes that have never seen anything but pavement onto something that feels more like….mountain biking.

Little Bennett Regional Park is a perfect biking excursion from Frederick for you, your partner, and/or your family.

Where Are the Little Bennett Bike Trails, and More Basics

Little Bennett has a series of bike trails with varying degrees of difficulty. This post will suggest a great loop that is everything described—a ‘goldilocks’ mountain bike trail that is not too hard, not too easy, and probably perfect for the whole family.

Total Distance: 14.2 km
Total Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your group
Trail Start: Hyattstown Mill Trailhead (14901 Hyattstown Mill Rd, Clarksburg, MD 20871)
Distance from Frederick: 12 miles, ~21 minutes
Parking and Fees: No fees, just park and go

Review of Our Recent Mountain Bike Ride on This Loop

Nicole and I did this loop recently on a Sunday. Let me first qualify by saying that both of us are decent bikers, in good fitness for our age (50+), probably what you would consider ‘casual mountain bikers’.

We are not Olympic athletes and are definitely not ‘hardcore’. The trails at Watershed, while popular, are too bumpy and technical for us.

Nicole has a proper ‘mountain bike’. I only have what is considered a ‘hybrid bike’. In other words, I have one of those bikes that people often buy at Dick Sporting Goods and mostly use on pavement and only occasionally on single-track dirt trails.

With all the above qualifications…we LOVE this bike loop. It’s our favorite Frederick area bike trail.

Overview of the Little Bennett Bike Loop

You will start by going out on the Hyattstown Road trail, and you will spend most of your time on this trail. This trail is a glorified forest road.

If you can ride on your neighborhood bike trails, you can handle this section. It’s gravel and dirt, so of course, it’s a little bumpy. But even your kids will love it.

You’ll be on a forest bike trail, quiet and peaceful, and you’ll probably see wildlife. You’ll follow this trail for several kilometers. There are cool bridges across streams. There are places to read interpretive signs about bluebirds and their peculiar behavior among the bird boxes.

You’ll eventually come to Clarksburg Road and another parking area. Here, you can take 2 different trails: The Hard Cider Trail or Kingsley Trail Gravel Road.

Take This Biking Adventure to Another Level

If you’ve enjoyed the Hyattstown Road trail, and for example have younger kids are plenty challenged by this gravel road, continue on the Kingsley Trail Gravel Road. In fact, take this trail a little farther, then turn back.

Work your way back to the Hyattstown Mill parking lot where you started, and call it a ride. You and your partner or spouse will have had a great experience.

However, if you are ready for something more challenging, do what Nicole and I did and take the Hard Cider Trail. This trail will be a step up in challenge.

It is more of a ‘single-track’ mountain bike trail, with ups and downs, bumps, rocks, and tree roots, and an experience more like the mountain biking we do in Bend.

But you can do it. Take your time. If something looks hard, stop and walk your bike. You came out to challenge yourself and do something new, and that’s what you are doing.

This bike that has never seen anything but pavement is finally serving its real purpose…mountain biking.

The Loop Portion of the Trail

After taking the Hard Cider Trail, after huffing and puffing and getting a full-on sweat, you’ll eventually intersect with the Putnam Trail. Bear left.

From here, you have several options to turn this into a loop back to where you parked.

Nicole and I took Putnam to Loggers Trail, where we turned left. This trail is now officially an ‘intermediate’ trail, supposedly harder, though honestly, I didn’t notice much difference.

Alternatively, you can keep going all the way to the green Browning Run trail and turn left.

From Loggers, we took a right onto Pine Knob, another intermediate trail (where I promptly saw 2 baby deer nursing with their mom). We then turned left on Browning Run blue (intermediate), which took us down an extended, somewhat challenging journey back to the Hyattstown Road trail.

From there, you coast back to the parking lot, feeling the glory of your hard work and this new extreme sport in which you are now officially a participant.

Little Bennett Bike Trails - Maps

If you want to build your own Little Bennett mountain bike excursion, there are several published maps to help you:

Why We Love This Little Bennet Bike Trail

Little Bennet is a Montgomery County park, but it’s a short drive down I-270 from Frederick. It’s the perfect excursion out of town to what feels like a leafy, secluded park, complete with trees, water, wildlife, and plenty to explore.

As mentioned, it’s also challenging enough to give you a sense of adventure, but it’s not as challenging as the X Games.

Suggest After Biking Refreshment Stop on the Way Back to Frederick

The Comas Inn is 7 minutes down the road from the parking lot and has the perfect Beer Garden to relax in after your ride.

It was recently taken ownership by Vanish Brewery, and better than ever!

Outdoor Activities In and Around Frederick, MD

The post Little Bennett Bike Trails (Biking Guide Near Frederick MD) first appeared on EpicBend.

Kayak the Monocacy River on the Monocacy Scenic Water Trail

Glenn VanLandingham — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 22:40:43 +0000

The Monocacy River near Frederick, MD, is the largest river that feeds the Potomac in Maryland. It is also a scenic river, popular for recreation, and kayaking the Monocacy River is one of the best outdoor experiences in Frederick.

An established Monocacy Scenic Water Trail makes it easy to access the river and plan a Monocacy River kayaking adventure.

In this post, we report on the recent kayak trip Nicole and I took on the upper section of the Monocacy Scenic Water Trail and tell you what you need to know if you want to enjoy it.

Nicole and Glenn Kayak the Monocacy Scenic Water Trail

Watch this video on the EpicFredrick YouTube Channel, for a report on our trip on the stretch of the Monocacy Water Trail from Devilbiss Bridget to Links Bridge and back. This was about a 2 hour paddle upstream, and 1 hour paddle back.

Monocacy Scenic Water Trail - Basic

The Monocacy Scenic Water Trail travels 41.8 starting at Rocky Ridge Soft Access on Maryland Route 77, about 25 minutes north of Frederick. The trail spans 3 sections ending south of Frederick at the Monocacy Boat Ramp on the C&O Canal near the mouth of the Potomac.

Frederick County Parks and Rec Info Site
River Access Map
Frederick Count Gov Info Sheet
Check Water Levels at USGS Site
National Park Services Info Site

Sections of the Monocacy Scenic Water Trail

The trail is broken into 3 main sections:

Section 1: Rocky Ridge Soft Access to Devilsbiss
Section 2: Devilbiss to Gambill Mill
Section 3: Gambill Mill to Monocacy Boat Ramp

Section 1 is generally consider the most remote, calm, and scenic.

Accessing the River and Paddling the Trail

There are multiple access points to the river. See links to the maps above. Our preferred place to enter the river is the Devilbiss Bridge.

Here there is a small parking lot, and easy trail down to the river. The river is calm here and a straightforward place to enter the river.

On most days, the river in section 1 is calm enough to travel upstream via paddle. You may have to stop a certain spots to walk your kayak where the water is shallow or current too strong. You can then paddle back to where you started.

Things to Remember Before Kayaking the Monocacy

Some things to consider before kayaking the Monocacy River:

Check water levels using the USGS site above or this NOAA site
It’s mandatory to water a life jacket
Bug Repellant and Sunscreen
A Dry Sack or something to protect your phone

Need to Rent a Kayak, Tube, or Canoe to Float the Monocacy?

Nicole and I have our own kayaks that she bought at Sierra. We easily transport them in our pick up.

If you want to enjoy kayaking or floating the Monocacy in a tube, you can do this with an outfitter who rents.

River Island Outfitters is located 20 minutes south of Frederick in Dickerson, MD. They offer two-hour tube floats in the lower section of the Monocacy and kayak rentals.

Outdoor Activities In and Around Frederick, MD

The post Kayak the Monocacy River on the Monocacy Scenic Water Trail first appeared on EpicBend.

Which is the BEST Frederick Movie Theatre?

Glenn VanLandingham — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:07:55 +0000

What is your favorite Frederick Movie Theatre? Despite the growth of streaming services (which Nicole and I are big fans of), we still love heading to a movie theatre occasionally to see a new film on the big screen.

In this post, we’ll tell you about our favorite Movie Theatres in Frederick, MD, and why you might want to visit them yourself.

For years, there was really only a single big-screen movie theatre in Frederick. Today, there are options right in the Frederick area, so you can avoid heading into Montgomery County for a movie.

Do you have a favorite movie theatre near Frederick that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!

1. Warehouse Cinemas Frederick MD

About This Frederick Movie Theatre:

Warehouse Cinemas is located on the west side of Frederick on the Golden Mile and delivers a next-level movie experience. This is not the average movie theatre you grew up going to. Warehouse Cinemas Frederick follows the latest trend in movie-going, with upgraded seating, food and drink, and technology.

It starts with the seriously comfortable seating. Every auditorium has plush leather recliners that even have seat warmers.

Warehouse Cinemas also have an elevated menu, which goes way beyond popcorn and candy. While you can get both of those things, you can also get flat breads, sandwiches, gourmet hot dogs, and desserts.

Maybe the best part of seeing a movie at Warehouse Cinemas in Frederick is the drink menu, which includes draft beers, wine, and cocktails. The beer list rotates but includes big brands like Guinness and Frederick local brews like Monocacy Brewing and Cushwa from Hagerstown.

2. Regal Cinemas Frederick MD

About This Frederick Movie Theatre:

Regal Cinemas Frederick (Regal Westview) is south of town on Buckeystown Pike. It’s a traditional movie theater with nine auditoriums that has done its best to keep up to date over the years.

For a long time, this was the only real movie theatre in Frederick, MD (unless you drove down into Montgomery County).

Most Regal Frederick theatres have upgraded seating, including comfortable recliners. The visual and Dolby surround audio are quite good, so you won’t be disappointed seeing a new release at Regal.

Though the reviews are mixed, some theatres have the IMAX and Stadium Seating arrangements.

You can get classic snacks and drinks at Regal while watching a movie, and Regal has a Regal Unlimited program for those who want unlimited movie watching for a monthly rate.

3. More Movie Theatres Around Frederick MD

If you can’t find a showtime that works for you at one of the theatres in Frederick, below is a list of movie theatres a bit farther away.

Regal Valley Mall (Hagerstown, MD)

Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas (Gaithersburg, MD)

RC Theatres (Westminster, MD)

AMC Rio Cinemas 18 (Gaithersburg, MD)

What Makes a Great Movie Theatre Experience?

Like any other review, ratings are subjective but here’s what makes a great movie theatre for us:

Number of Theatres and Selection of Showtimes
Quality of the Seating
Large, Quality Screens with Equally Good Audio
Concessions: Food and Drink!
Prices
Ease of Buying Tickets (Online)

In recent years, movie theatres have made many improvements to enhance the movie theatre experience to compete with the advent of streaming and the inclination of moviegoers to ‘stay home and watch’.

Several movie theatres in Frederick, Maryland, have made these improvements to attract customers.

Things to Do in Frederick, MD

The post Which is the BEST Frederick Movie Theatre? first appeared on EpicBend.

The 11 BEST Hikes Near Frederick MD [for Views, Waterfalls, and Mountain Treks] – SPONSORED

Glenn VanLandingham — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:04:16 +0000

Nicole and I are big outdoor enthusiasts, we love to bike, paddle, play sports, and especially hike. It’s part of the reason we love both Frederick and Bend.

In this article, we share what we think are the best hikes near Frederick, MD. We also give you some considerations for hiking in the Frederick area.

This guide is sponsored by The Jim Bass Group of Real Estate Teams.

The Jim Bass Group of Real Estate Teams proudly supports local guides who help residents and visitors explore the Frederick area.

While hiking around Frederick would probably never be compared to the incredible quality of hiking around Bend, there are plenty of great places to hike around Frederick. In fact, some of the best hikes in Maryland are in the Frederick area.

Within 45 minutes, you can be in the Catoctin Mountains, on the Appalachian Trail, hiking around the overlooks around Harpers Ferry, or simply strolling the downtown parks in Frederick.

Whether you are visiting Frederick or just looking to get your family outdoors on the weekend, there’s a hike for everyone in the area.

This includes short, easy hikes like the Ford Loop Trail at Monocacy Battlefield and longer all-day hikes like Maryland Heights orAnnapolis Rocks.

If you want something epic, drive a little farther to Shenandoah National Park and do the Old Rag Hike, often ranked among the best hikes in the US.

Did we miss your favorite hike? Did we rank something too high or low? Let us know in the comments.

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)

Hiking Around Frederick MD - Map

Things to Consider When Planning a Hike Around Frederick

Here are some things you should plan for before heading out on any of the hiking trails around Frederick MD.

Weather. You won’t be climbing to extreme altitudes on any mountain ranges around Frederick, but that doesn’t mean the weather can’t change quickly. Many of the hikes below are to open rock outcroppings, and these are not good places to be when a thunderstorm rolls in.

Check the weather, especially in summer when afternoon storms are common, and especially if you are heading to open viewpoints like Annapolis Rocks or Maryland Heights.

Parking. The parking situation at trailheads varies depending on the hike below. But it’s definitely something you should check into before heading out.

Many popular trailheads (Annapolis Rocks, Cunningham Falls, Sugarloaf Mountain) fill up quickly on weekends. Know exactly where you are going, try to get there early, and have a backup plan if the main lot is full.

Nicole and I have encountered full parking lots many times, but this has never deterred us from going on a hike we wanted to do, as we can always find a nearby backup parking option.

Footwear. Many of the hikes below are in the Catoctin or Appalachian Mountain environments. The trails are almost always very well maintained, but usually extremely rocky.

Going downhill is especially hard on your feet, as you’ll be pounding on rocks most of the way. Many hikes involve rock scrambling (fun!).

A solid pair of hiking shoes or boots makes a big difference. You can do most of these hikes in tennis shoes, but don’t try them in flip-flops or sandals.

Passes and Day-Use Fees are another planning item that varies greatly depending on where you are hiking. Another great thing about hiking around Frederick is that most of the best hikes require no reservation and no day pass—they are totally free!

However, some hikes below in Maryland State Parks require a day-use pass (like Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Park). Besides the Old Rag Hike, none of the hikes below require any type of reservation in advance.

Frederick summers can be brutally hot, and sudden storms are common. Just like you plan ahead on the trail, it’s worth making sure your home is prepared for temperature swings too.

Local HVAC companies like BPM Heating & Cooling help residents keep indoor comfort steady no matter how unpredictable the weather gets.

The Best National and State Parks in Maryland for Hiking Around Frederick

Our Top 10 List of Frederick Hikes below makes it easy for you to identify the right hike in the area. But many of the best hikes are in the National and State Parks around Frederick, so it’s worth reviewing these parks.

Catoctin Mountain Park is one of our favorite parks for hiking around Frederick. It is only 25 minutes north near Thurmont. A great network of trails travels through thick forests, so you can quickly immerse yourself in nature with a short drive from Frederick.

The best hike in the area is the Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock Loop Hike, but an extensive network of trails, trailheads, and parking areas makes it great for exploring. It’s free and easy to access.

Cunningham Falls State Park is located near Catoctin and is very popular due to the numerous activities it offers. However, hiking the Upper Loop Trail is very pleasant, and the falls are particularly beautiful, especially in the spring.

Gambrill State Park is even closer to Frederick (15 mins north on Route 15). The Black Locus Trail is a great moderate hike, and Gambrill is fabulous for biking near Frederick or just a great viewpoint.

Patuxent River State Park is in Montgomery and Howard counties, past Damascus. It has various access points. We recommend a hike on the Bootjack Trail and Scotts Branch Trail.

Hiking the Appalachian Trail in Maryland

The Appalachian Trail is a continuous mountain trail that travels 2,168 miles from Georgia to Maine. Approximately 40 miles of this trail are in Maryland, most very close to Frederick.

Some of the best hikes in the Frederick area are on the AT, including the Annapolis Rocks Hike and Weverton Cliffs. There’s something exhilarating about hiking on a trail where you know the endpoints are ahead of you in Georgia or Maine.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy Visitor Center is also located in Harpers Ferry and is definitely worth visiting if you are in town.

Post Hiking Rewards - Frederick Breweries!

What’s my favorite part of hiking around Frederick? The post-hike beer at a Frederick Brewery!

If you’ve hiked outdoors, especially if you’ve done something longer and strenuous, reward yourself with a beer (or two) or a great post-hike meal in Frederick.

So, if you are ready to choose a great hiking trail near Frederick, check out are list of the 10 best below.

1. Annapolis Rock via Appalachian Trail

Rating: Moderate

Annapolis Rock and Black Rock Trailhead
5.3 Miles Out and Back (~3 Hours)
Elevation Gain 1,600 Feet
Free Parking
No Pass Required

Why Do It: The Annapolis Rock Hike is not just the best hike near Frederick, it’s one of the best hikes in Maryland. Easily accessible from a trailhead right off I-70, this hike utilizes the Appalachian Trail to bring you to a spectacular viewpoint.

After leaving the trailhead, the hike starts noisy along the highway. But soon, you’ll be climbing the Appalachian Trail (which runs ~40 miles in Maryland) for about 2.5 miles until you reach Annapolis Rocks.

Below you is Cumberland Valley and Greenbrier State Park. It’s a gorgeous place to be at sunset. The hike is about 5.2 miles out and back and takes ~3 hours.

2. Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate

Why Do It: We find that the best and fastest way for Frederick residents or visitors to get deep into nature is to head to Catoctin Mountain Park, just 25 minutes north of Frederick near Thurmont. Here, you can quickly get into thick forests with wildlife, viewpoints, and several good hikes.

The best hike in the area is the Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock Loop Hike. This moderate 3.8-mile loop takes you into the heart of Catoctin and includes visits to two interesting rock outcroppings high up on the mountain.

The second outcropping is Chimney Rock, a gorgeous vista with a zen-like vibe that makes downtown Frederick feel a long, long way away.

This great park is free, but the trailheads and parking lots get full quickly on weekends.

3. Cunningham Falls Upper Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate

Cunningham Falls - Northern Trail
2.5 Miles Out and Back (90 Minutes)
Elevation Gain 350 Feet
Trail Map
Free Parking
Day Use Pass Required

Why Do It: Visiting Cunningham Falls State Park is one of the best things to do around Frederick. This park is adjacent to Catoctin Mountain Park, and in addition to hiking, you can fish, canoe, picnic, or camp.

Anyone can visit the actual Cunningham Falls via a short nature trail, but you can also do a great extended hike via the Cunningham Falls Upper Loop Trail.

This hike starts at the trailhead on Foxville Road, takes you through deep forest, and eventually up and around the 78-foot-high falls. It’s a great way to enjoy this popular attraction while avoiding crowds.

Cunningham Falls is home to many other hikes we love, such as the Misery Trail to Cat Rock, which leads to a beautiful viewpoint.

To visit Cunningham Falls, you need a day-use pass, usually $3 or $5 per person, depending on the season and whether you live in or out of state.

4. Sugarloaf Mountain Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate

Why Do It: Sugarloaf Mountain is a prominent peak 30 minutes south of Frederick, with a great network of hiking trails around and up the mountain.

It’s actually on private property run by a non-profit called Stronghold, and a great place to visit for a short walk or longer hike.

Our favorite hike at Sugarloaf is the Sugarloaf Mountain Loop Trail. This trail follows the white circuit for just over three miles, including a climb to the summit. The top of Sugarloaf offers expansive views over the Maryland countryside.

Visiting and parking at Sugarloaf are free, but parking is notoriously crowded and strict (don’t park on the road!).

If you have time, try to visit the beautiful Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard while in the area, one of the best wineries in the Frederick area.

Book Your Frederick Area Hotel or Vacation Rental

5. High Rock Overlook and Raven Rock Trail

Rating: Moderate

Raven Rock Road, near Smithsburg
6.2 Miles Out and Back (~3 Hours)
Elevation Gain 1,010 Feet
Roadside Parking
No Pass Required

Why Do It: This is another hike on the Appalachian Trail in Maryland, offering multiple rocky viewpoints.

The High Rock Overlook and Raven Rock Trail starts close to Smithsburg, about 40 minutes from Frederick, and picks up the AT from roadside parking.

The hike starts with a steep climb. Most of the hike is on a ridge in a thick forest, especially lush in summer.

The High Rock Overlook is genuinely distinctive, probably for the wrong reasons. It’s covered with graffiti, which gives it character, but some call it ugly. The view from High Rock is fabulous.

Stop at Raven Rock on the way back to enjoy a second rocky viewpoint.

6. Carroll Creek Linear Park

Rating: Easy

Why Do It: This is slightly different but definitely belongs on this list. Carroll Creek Linear Park is one of the top attractions in Frederick and the heart of downtown. You can turn Carroll Creek into a 2-mile loop hike, starting from just about anywhere in the park.

The entire park is paved with several bridges and attractions and lined with some of the best restaurants and bars in Frederick. On weekends, there is almost always an event at Carroll Creek.

It’s a great place for an easy stroll. You can park on the street anywhere near the park, or the Carroll Creek Parking Garage is cheap and easy.

Try turning your Carroll Creek hike into a beer crawl—many of the best breweries in Frederick are clustered on Carroll Creek!

7. Black Locust Trail (Gambrill State Park)

Rating: Moderate

Why Do It: Gambrill State Park is a short 15 minutes North of downtown Frederick. It has a network of trails and, in fact, is one of the best places to mountain bike near Frederick.

But the Black Locust Trail in Gambrill is perfect for a pleasant, moderately strenuous loop hike. This loop (we recommend going counter-clockwise) takes you through the main section of Gambrill, rich vegetation and forest, and some nice viewpoints. Spring has beautiful blooming trees.

The parking lot is small and fills up fast, and you need to pay for a day pass onsite.

The best bet is to leave Frederick and head to Gambrill for sunset at one of the overlooks—it’s gorgeous.

Planning a Trip to Frederick, Maryland?

We are locals! Let’s us guide and ensure you get the best deals.

Top Rated Hotels in Frederick

Best Overall Hotel. The Visitation Hotel
Best Luxury Hotel. The Visitation Hotel
Best Budget Hotel. Econo Lodge I-70
Best Bed and Breakfast. 10 Clarke B&B
Best Downtown Location. The Wedgewood Inn
Best Hotel for Families. Homewood Suites by Hilton Frederick

Looking for a rental? Check out the best Airbnb and VRBOs in Frederick.

Book Adventure Tours around Frederick

8. Maryland Heights Loop (Harpers Ferry)

Rating: Difficult

Why Do It: Harpers Ferry is one of the best outings in the Frederick area. Filled with history, this National Historical Park is a fascinating venue only 30 minutes from Frederick.

Sitting at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, Harpers Ferry also has some fantastic hikes surrounding the town. The best is the Maryland Heights Loop on the Maryland Heights Trail.

This strenuous climb above the town rewards you with the area’s best views, with more history along the way.

This hike starts in Harpers Ferry proper at the Visitor Information Center and takes you across a footbridge over the Potomac. You then climb to a historic Naval Battery and eventually a Stone Fort before looping back down.

Harper’s Ferry requires an entry pass (generally $20 per vehicle or $10 per person), and parking is tricky. The Harpers Ferry Visitor Center Parking Lot is the best place to park, from which you can take a shuttle into town.

9. Weverton Cliffs

Rating: Moderate

Why Do It: Weverton Cliffs is another viewpoint hike in the Harpers Ferry area (but shorter and less strenuous than the Maryland Heights Loop). This hike utilizes the Appalachian Trail to lead you up to a gorgeous view of the Potomac.

The trailhead is at a park-and-ride with a small but easy-to-access parking lot. The trail climbs 600 feet, but the switchbacks make it relatively moderate.

You’ll do some scrambling at the top of the cliffs, but it’s a great place for a break or, better yet, to bring your lunch.

10. Patuxent River State Park

Rating: Moderate

Why Do It: Patuxent River State Park covers the north section of the river, sprawling across Montgomery and Howard Counties. It’s a great place for mountain biking near Frederick, with some great hiking trails as well.

We recommend the Bootjack Trail and Scotts Branch Loop, which, when combined, create a moderately strenuous 6.5-mile hike.

The beginning of the hike through tall pines is lovely, with views of the river along the way.

Follow EpicFrederick for Local Info You Won't Find in Guides:

11. Ford Loop Trail (Monocacy National Battlefield)

Rating: Easy

Why Do It: Frederick has a lot of history, but the most interesting historic site in Frederick is Monocacy National Battlefield. We rank it as the best attraction in Frederick.

In 1864, a momentous Civil War battle raged on these grounds. The Confederates ultimately won, but their march on Washington, D.C., was significantly delayed. Monocacy Battlefield is certainly worth a day’s visit while in Frederick.

Walking the grounds is a great way to experience Monocacy National Battlefield. A network of trails guides you around and tells the history of this important site.

In our opinion, the best hike at Monocacy is the Ford Loop Hike. Starting at Worthington Farm, this 1.6-mile hike uses the Worthington Farm Trail up and around one of the main battlefields.

On this hike, you’ll also get close to the Monocacy River and read several historical markers along the way.

Bonus: Old Rag Hike (Shenandoah National Park)

Rating: Very Difficult

Why Do It: This list has many great Frederick area hikes.

But if you are willing to travel slightly farther and want a truly epic Appalachian hike, consider heading to Shenandoah National Park for the Old Rag Hike.

Old Rag is consistently ranked the best hike in Virginia. It’s a long, grueling hike (almost 10 miles round-trip), with a significant amount of rock scaling towards the top.

But the experience is amazing, including the views from the top and the sense of accomplishment scaling Old Rags boulders along the route.

Plan carefully. Old Rag now has a permit system, with only 800 passes issued per day. Parking fills up really early, and you need a park pass since the hike is inside Shenandoah National Park.

Nicole and I have done it several times, and if you are a Frederick area hiker, we highly recommend you make the two-hour trek to Virginia and do it!

This guide includes a sponsored placement. All businesses featured are selected editorially, and sponsorship does not influence our recommendations.

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The post The 11 BEST Hikes Near Frederick MD [for Views, Waterfalls, and Mountain Treks] – SPONSORED first appeared on EpicBend.

The 11 BEST Hikes Near Frederick MD [for Views, Waterfalls, and Mountain Treks]

Glenn VanLandingham — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:46:13 +0000

Nicole and I are big outdoor enthusiasts, we love to bike, paddle, play sports, and especially hike. It’s part of the reason we love both Frederick and Bend.

In this article, we share what we think are the best hikes near Frederick, MD. We also give you some considerations for hiking in the Frederick area.

Hiking Around Frederick MD - Map

Did we miss your favorite hike? Did we rank something too high or low? Let us know in the comments.

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)

1. Annapolis Rock via Appalachian Trail (Myersville, MD)

Rating: Moderate

Annapolis Rock and Black Rock Trailhead
5.3 Miles Out and Back (~3 Hours)
Elevation Gain 1,600 Feet
Free Parking
No Pass Required

Below you is Cumberland Valley and Greenbrier State Park. It’s a gorgeous place to be at sunset. The hike is about 5.2 miles out and back and takes ~3 hours.

2. Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock Loop Trail (Catoctin Mountain Park, MD)

Rating: Moderate

The second outcropping is Chimney Rock, a gorgeous vista with a zen-like vibe that makes downtown Frederick feel a long, long way away.

This great park is free, but the trailheads and parking lots get full quickly on weekends.

3. Cunningham Falls Upper Loop Trail (Cunningham Falls State Park, MD)

Rating: Moderate

Cunningham Falls - Northern Trail
2.5 Miles Out and Back (90 Minutes)
Elevation Gain 350 Feet
Trail Map
Free Parking
Day Use Pass Required

Anyone can visit the actual Cunningham Falls via a short nature trail, but you can also do a great extended hike via the Cunningham Falls Upper Loop Trail.

Cunningham Falls is home to many other hikes we love, such as the Misery Trail to Cat Rock, which leads to a beautiful viewpoint.

To visit Cunningham Falls, you need a day-use pass, usually $3 or $5 per person, depending on the season and whether you live in or out of state.

4. Sugarloaf Mountain Loop Trail (Dickerson, MD)

Rating: Moderate

Why Do It: Sugarloaf Mountain is a prominent peak 30 minutes south of Frederick, with a great network of hiking trails around and up the mountain.

It’s actually on private property run by a non-profit called Stronghold, and a great place to visit for a short walk or longer hike.

Visiting and parking at Sugarloaf are free, but parking is notoriously crowded and strict (don’t park on the road!).

If you have time, try to visit the beautiful Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard while in the area, one of the best wineries in the Frederick area.

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5. High Rock Overlook and Raven Rock Trail (Smithburg, MD)

Rating: Moderate

Raven Rock Road, near Smithsburg
6.2 Miles Out and Back (~3 Hours)
Elevation Gain 1,010 Feet
Roadside Parking
No Pass Required

Why Do It: This is another hike on the Appalachian Trail in Maryland, offering multiple rocky viewpoints.

The High Rock Overlook and Raven Rock Trail starts close to Smithsburg, about 40 minutes from Frederick, and picks up the AT from roadside parking.

The hike starts with a steep climb. Most of the hike is on a ridge in a thick forest, especially lush in summer.

The High Rock Overlook is genuinely distinctive, probably for the wrong reasons. It’s covered with graffiti, which gives it character, but some call it ugly. The view from High Rock is fabulous.

Stop at Raven Rock on the way back to enjoy a second rocky viewpoint.

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6. Carroll Creek Linear Park (Frederick, MD)

Rating: Easy

The entire park is paved with several bridges and attractions and lined with some of the best restaurants and bars in Frederick. On weekends, there is almost always an event at Carroll Creek.

It’s a great place for an easy stroll. You can park on the street anywhere near the park, or the Carroll Creek Parking Garage is cheap and easy.

Try turning your Carroll Creek hike into a beer crawl—many of the best breweries in Frederick are clustered on Carroll Creek!

7. Black Locust Trail (Gambrill State Park, MD)

Rating: Moderate

Why Do It: Gambrill State Park is a short 15 minutes North of downtown Frederick. It has a network of trails and, in fact, is one of the best places to mountain bike near Frederick.

The parking lot is small and fills up fast, and you need to pay for a day pass onsite.

The best bet is to leave Frederick and head to Gambrill for sunset at one of the overlooks—it’s gorgeous.

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Top Rated Hotels in Frederick

Best Overall Hotel. The Visitation Hotel
Best Luxury Hotel. The Visitation Hotel
Best Budget Hotel. Econo Lodge I-70
Best Bed and Breakfast. 10 Clarke B&B
Best Downtown Location. The Wedgewood Inn
Best Hotel for Families. Homewood Suites by Hilton Frederick

Looking for a rental? Check out the best Airbnb and VRBOs in Frederick.

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8. Maryland Heights Loop (Harpers Ferry, WV)

Rating: Difficult

Why Do It: Harpers Ferry is one of the best outings in the Frederick area. Filled with history, this National Historical Park is a fascinating venue only 30 minutes from Frederick.

This strenuous climb above the town rewards you with the area’s best views, with more history along the way.

9. Weverton Cliffs (Knoxville, MD)

Rating: Moderate

The trailhead is at a park-and-ride with a small but easy-to-access parking lot. The trail climbs 600 feet, but the switchbacks make it relatively moderate.

You’ll do some scrambling at the top of the cliffs, but it’s a great place for a break or, better yet, to bring your lunch.

10. Patuxent River State Park (Gaithersburg, MD)

Rating: Moderate

We recommend the Bootjack Trail and Scotts Branch Loop, which, when combined, create a moderately strenuous 6.5-mile hike.

The beginning of the hike through tall pines is lovely, with views of the river along the way.

11. Ford Loop Trail (Monocacy National Battlefield)

Rating: Easy

Why Do It: Frederick has a lot of history, but the most interesting historic site in Frederick is Monocacy National Battlefield. We rank it as the best attraction in Frederick.

Walking the grounds is a great way to experience Monocacy National Battlefield. A network of trails guides you around and tells the history of this important site.

In our opinion, the best hike at Monocacy is the Ford Loop Hike. Starting at Worthington Farm, this 1.6-mile hike uses the Worthington Farm Trail up and around one of the main battlefields.

On this hike, you’ll also get close to the Monocacy River and read several historical markers along the way.

Bonus: Old Rag Hike (Shenandoah National Park)

Rating: Very Difficult

Why Do It: This list has many great Frederick area hikes.

But if you are willing to travel slightly farther and want a truly epic Appalachian hike, consider heading to Shenandoah National Park for the Old Rag Hike.

Old Rag is consistently ranked the best hike in Virginia. It’s a long, grueling hike (almost 10 miles round-trip), with a significant amount of rock scaling towards the top.

But the experience is amazing, including the views from the top and the sense of accomplishment scaling Old Rags boulders along the route.

Plan carefully. Old Rag now has a permit system, with only 800 passes issued per day. Parking fills up really early, and you need a park pass since the hike is inside Shenandoah National Park.

Nicole and I have done it several times, and if you are a Frederick area hiker, we highly recommend you make the two-hour trek to Virginia and do it!

What to Expect With Hikes Around Frederick MD

Within 45 minutes, you can be in the Catoctin Mountains, on the Appalachian Trail, hiking around the overlooks around Harpers Ferry, or simply strolling the downtown parks in Frederick.

Whether you are visiting Frederick or just looking to get your family outdoors on the weekend, there’s a hike for everyone in the area.

This includes short, easy hikes like the Ford Loop Trail at Monocacy Battlefield and longer all-day hikes like Maryland Heights orAnnapolis Rocks.

If you want something epic, drive a little farther to Shenandoah National Park and do the Old Rag Hike, often ranked among the best hikes in the US.

The Best National and State Parks in Maryland for Hiking Around Frederick

Our Top List of Frederick Hikes has hikes from all over the area. But many of the best hikes are in the National and State Parks around Frederick, so it’s worth reviewing these parks.