Let’s be real, 2020 has been a whirlwind. Many of our favorite things to do have been closed down due to restrictions involving Covid-19. The one thing that has remained open during the entirety of the pandemic has been the great outdoors. So I figured I’d share with you all the absolute BEST winter hikes you can go on this holiday season.
Swallow Falls State Park
Swallow Falls State Park is located in Garrett County, Maryland. With the Youghiogheny River flowing through much of the park, and a giant 53-foot waterfall, Muddy Creek Falls, this state park is a must if you are planning on going on any winter hikes in Maryland.
I personally LOVE visiting and hiking through Swallow Falls any time of the year. It is absolutely breathtaking during the winter months. A peaceful quiet takes over and you feel like you are in another world. 100% recommend adding this place to your winter itinerary.
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Next up, Battle Creek Cypress Swamp. This nature sanctuary is located in Calvert County, Maryland and spreads over 100-acres. There is a quarter-mile boardwalk that takes you through the trails and swamp. Which may I just add, is GORGEOUS when partially or fully iced over from the colder weather!
Make sure to download their Winter Trail Map to know exactly which trails will be best in the winter months and what wildlife you can expect to see on your winter hike.
Elk Neck State Park
Coming in at number three, Elk Neck State Park, located in Cecil County, Maryland. This park has a variety of different trail options for all levels. My favorite trail for winter hikes at Elk Neck is Turkey Point Lighthouse Trail. This 1.5 mile trail enables you to reach Turkey Point Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse that sits on a 100 foot tall cliff overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. I mean, if hearing that description doesn’t want to make you go, I’m not sure winter hikes are your thing! The views from this trail are unmatched.
There are also two other trails at Elk Neck, Beaver Marsh Loop (a 2 mile loop) and White Banks Trail (a 3 mile loop). Both of these loops are for more advanced hikers. If challenging, steep trails are your favorite, I’d give these two a go. But they may not be best for the whole family.
Patapsco Valley State Park (Avalon Loop)
Patapsco Valley State Park hits the list at number four. This state park itself is HUGE and there are many many many different trail options. One of my favorites is the Avalon Loop.
Now, let me preface this by saying this trail loop is 20 miles long, so it is not for the faint of heart. In order to go on this winter hike you MUST be prepared. Make sure to read to the end for my top tips for cold weather hiking). But man oh man is this trail worth it! Ruins, waterfalls, settler homes, and the iconic swinging bridge. This hike is for sure one to add to your bucket list.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
And lastly, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. This wildlife refuge was established in 1933 as a waterfowl sanctuary for birds migrating along the critical migration highway called the Atlantic Flyway. How cool is that?! One of the things I love about Blackwater is not only are there four different land trails, there also is a Wildlife Drive. This is a four mile paved road with excellent views of the refuge (so even in FREEZING temps you can enjoy the scenery).
In January you can expect to see geese, swans and ducks in the marsh. As well as hawks, great blue herons, and a few species of shorebirds. Bald and golden eagles are sometimes spotted. In late February the first northward bound migrants appear. These include killdeer, robins, and bluebirds. New eaglets hatch and wintering waterfowl are preparing for the long flight north through intense foraging. For more about the seasons of wildlife at Blackwater, click here.
A Note on Winter Hikes and Safety
Before heading out on your hike, PLEASE make sure to research the weather!! Especially if you are in an area you aren’t familiar with. Also, make sure to wear layers! Layers will be your best friend when hiking during the colder months. For more cold weather hiking and camping tips, check out my full blog post on tips to keep you safe and cozy.
I’m curious, have you been to any of these winter hike destinations? Or do you plan to this year? I’d LOVE to hear from you!! Send me a message on Instagram and we can chat all about winter hikes ❄
