A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Big Spring, Maryland

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

C&O Canal: Lock 45 to Lock 50

Hike Route

C&O Canal: Lock 45 to Lock 50

Family Friendly
moderate
2.51 mi
+83 ft
Battlefield Forest Creek Loop

Hike Route

Battlefield Forest Creek Loop

Birding
moderate
3.33 mi
+239 ft
Annapolis Rock on the Appalachian Trail

Hike Route

Annapolis Rock on the Appalachian Trail

Views
easy
4.9 mi
+784 ft
Cunningham Falls Out-and-Back

Hike Route

Cunningham Falls Out-and-Back

ADA Accessible
moderate
1.2 mi
+154 ft
Hog Rock

Hike Route

Hog Rock

Views
moderate
4.6 mi
+1,015 ft
Lakeside Trail

Hike Route

Lakeside Trail

Lake
easy
1.52 mi
+30 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

Appalachian Trail: South Mountain

Hike Route

Appalachian Trail: South Mountain

Fall Colors
strenuous
12.95 mi
+1,733 ft
Pennsylvania Turnpike Abandoned Tunnels

Hike Route

Pennsylvania Turnpike Abandoned Tunnels

Family Friendly
moderate
16.84 mi
+2,672 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

AT: Annapolis Rock and Black Rock

Hike Route

AT: Annapolis Rock and Black Rock

Birding
moderate
6.72 mi
+777 ft
Appalachian Trail: Wolfsville Road to Pen Mar Park

Hike Route

Appalachian Trail: Wolfsville Road to Pen Mar Park

Birding
strenuous
9.53 mi
+1,836 ft
Maryland Heights Loop

Hike Route

Maryland Heights Loop

Fall Colors
moderate
6.54 mi
+1,608 ft
Loudoun Heights Out and Back

Hike Route

Loudoun Heights Out and Back

Fall Colors
moderate
5.78 mi
+1,592 ft
Pine Lick/Twin Oaks Loop

Hike Route

Pine Lick/Twin Oaks Loop

Fall Colors
moderate
7.21 mi
+844 ft