The Best Hikes in Maryland

Swallow Falls State Park (Garrett County, Md.): A great place for families to hike in Western Maryland, this park's short trails wind through dark, peaty forest and offer relatively easy access to some stunning scenery. There are overlooks to three waterfalls -- Swallow Falls, Tolliver Falls, and the 63-foot-high cascading Muddy Creek Falls.

Big Savage Trail in Savage River State Forest (Garrett County, Md.): This rugged trail extends 17 miles along the ridge of Big Savage Mountain, passing impressive vistas along the way. A tough hike through almost total wilderness, it's the best choice for serious backpacking in Western Maryland.