Appalachian Trail in Maryland
Maryland’s nearly 40-mile Appalachian Trail section follows South Mountain, making ridge walks and overnight trips accessible from several road crossings.
Artwork inspired by John Ross Key
The Appalachian Trail passes through Maryland along South Mountain for roughly 40 miles. It is tempting to think of this as a short state crossing, but the landscape changes with every gap: wooded ridges, rock outcrops, Civil War terrain, shelters, and periodic views. Washington Monument State Park is a useful first access point, where a short approach joins the white-blazed route near a stone tower.
For a day hike, choose an out-and-back based on daylight and footing rather than treating the section as one attraction. For an overnight walk, use the official map and designated camping locations; this card’s map opens the Washington Monument access point, not an imaginary center of the trail. The trail is foot-only, and state-park parking may carry a day-use charge.
- Maryland extent
- Roughly 40 miles
- Ridgeline
- South Mountain
- Mapped access
- Washington Monument
Quick guide
- Pick a segment
- Choose a road crossing and turn-around before setting out.
- Follow white blazes
- The Appalachian Trail is foot-only and crosses other paths.
Know before you go
- Start at the monument
- A short approach reaches the white-blazed trail.
- Read the terrain
- The gaps and ridge made this corridor strategically important.
- Set a turn-around
- Rocky footing can make miles slower than expected.
- Plan overnight carefully
- Use designated sites and current trail information.
Good to know
The map points to one practical trail access, not the whole Maryland route. Check closures, water sources, and camping rules before a longer hike.
Notice these
- South Mountain ridge
- Washington Monument access
- White-blazed footpath