2025's 8 Most Scenic Maryland Towns
Maryland is one of the smallest U.S. states, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in natural beauty and splendor. From the gorgeous waters of Chesapeake Bay, the country's largest estuary, to 41 miles of the Appalachian Trail winding across the landscape, the Old Line State is packed with scenic wonders. Along the Atlantic shoreline here, you will find some of the cleanest, most inviting beaches in the U.S. Inland, there are waterfalls, forests, serene lakes, and mountains galore. Dubbed 'America in Miniature,' Maryland delivers a bit of everything America does best, all in one state. The following towns are an excellent starting point for discovering the state's outdoor treasures for yourself.
Ocean City
Ocean City delivers on its name. This quaint town, with a population of under 7,000, boasts expansive, sandy beaches that stretch for miles. Visitors come for the waves and stay for the gold, pink, and orange sunsets. Not to mention the wild horses that roam the nearby Assateague Island. The island also offers a 15-kilometer trail for biking, running, and walking. On the Maryland side of the island, there are two miles of sloping beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming.
In the heart of Ocean City lies Northside Park, which offers walking paths, a lagoon pier, and a fishing pier. A short distance away from Ocean City, you'll find the Isle of Wight Nature Park. This 200-acre island is a tidal marshland where several bird species flourish. You can launch a kayak here and paddle along while keeping an eye out for waterfowl and herons.
Solomons
Solomons Island, also known as Solomons, offers extensive water access. This small community is situated at the mouth of the tranquil Patuxent River on the Chesapeake Bay, which means plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, paddling, and even crabbing. You want to set aside more than a few hours for fishing, considering the water is filled with redfish, black and red drum, blue catfish, and flounder. You might also catch a rockfish or two as you bask in the serenity of the gorgeous natural setting.
If you're an avid birdwatcher, you may spot several of the 160 species found in Solomons. These include geese, loons, grebes, and gulls. Solomons falls in Calvert County, which is home to the Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum. The site spans 560 acres along the river shore and is a highly significant archaeological site in the Chesapeake Bay region. There are many acres of hiking trails here, including the Indian Trail. The entire island is a resort area, so the general atmosphere is one of relaxation and peacefulness. Solomons is one of the most idyllic towns in Maryland, especially if you need a time out from your busy lifestyle.
St Michaels
If you want to take your dog with you on your Maryland travels, you'll be glad to know that St. Michaels is very pet-friendly. This small town lies along the Miles River and the Chesapeake Bay, where you can paddleboard, go sailing or kayaking, or enjoy a charter boat trip. The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is nearby, making it an ideal spot to spend a couple of hours bird-watching. Several scenic biking trails will get you up close to the charming countryside.
The Michaels Nature Trail is a great option for families and their pets to enjoy the natural scenery across 1.3 miles. If you want to explore a little bit outside of St. Michaels, Tilghman Island is a mere 10 miles away. Here, you will find several quiet creeks for jet skiing or boating. You can also rent a kayak or canoe and follow the shorelines in search of waterfowl and dolphins.
Grantsville
Grantsville is a small town of approximately 1,000 people that serves as a gateway to five state parks. This stunning place provides easy access to the Great Allegheny Passage, where you can enjoy hiking or biking. The climate in Grantsville is also ideal for activities such as white-water rafting or cross-country skiing.
If you're looking for a tranquil camping spot, New Germany State Park offers compact cabins and campsites and is just five miles from the town center. The park spans 5.3 hectares and features a lake where you can enjoy canoeing or boating. Explore Western Maryland's rolling hills five miles south of Grantsville at Miner Hickory Farms. The best part is you can do so on horseback. Whether you're a beginning or expert rider, you'll enjoy the views of the mountains and wildlife as you trot along the horse trails.
McHenry
McHenry's claim to fame is the gorgeous Wisp Resort. This downhill ski resort is the only one of its kind to remain open year-round in Maryland, and its slopes are situated on Marsh Mountain. In summer, you can go on canopy tour zip line adventures or go mountain biking. The resort also offers unique activities, such as archery and Segway tours. Plus, if you've never been on a mountain coaster, there is no better place to experience one for the first time. A mountain coaster is a combination of a roller coaster and an alpine slide. The cars of this coaster go 3,500 feet downhill across 350 vertical feet of Wisp Mountain.
In winter, there are various skiing trails to choose from, catering to different skill levels. There is a total of 34 trails and slopes, ranging from easy to most difficult. At Sang Run State Park, there are more outdoor adventures to be had. The Youghiogheny River shore is extremely inviting for a lazy picnic or a day spent fishing. There is also a 2.5-mile trail for hiking or biking. You can also rent a boat at the Aquatic Center to explore Deep Creek Lake. The Aquatic Center provides pontoon boats, paddleboards, bikes, and kayaks.
Thurmont
Thurmont may sound like an unusual name, but it is on the nose for this stunning town. Thurmont means 'gateway to the mountains,' and the town's main street leads to breathtakingly beautiful vistas in the Catoctin Mountains, including Chimney Rock.
You can go fly fishing in Big Hunting Creek or take in the views at Hunting Creek Lake. Get some photos of Maryland's highest cascading waterfall, located in Cunningham Falls State Park. Thurmont is also home to the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo. This 100-acre preserve offers 25 acres of public access, which includes safari-style truck rides and animal feedings. You will find a variety of wildlife, from bears to alligators, in these magnificent natural surroundings.
Frostburg
The town of Frostburg is considered an Appalachian beauty. The town lies in the shadow of the Allegheny Mountains and draws outdoor enthusiasts from all over the U.S. Frostburg doubles as a Trail Town on the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage. It sits at mile 15.5 and offers hiking, running, and biking opportunities in the scenic woodlands.
Frostburg also offers a Tracks and Yaks rail-bike tour, Maryland's only rail-biking excursion that runs along disused railway tracks. You'll get to pedal downhill gently while enjoying the view of the wooded valleys and return via train. Nine miles south of this exciting town, you'll find Dan's Mountain State Park, which includes Dan's Rock Overlook. The 482-acre park features a pond, clean picnic facilities, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Back in Frostburg, there is more than enough greenery as well. The town boasts seven parks and 145 acres of green space, offering opportunities for sports, fishing, swimming, and walking.
Hampstead
In Hampstead, more parks, natural areas, and a reservoir await. Prettyboy Reservoir Park, situated parallel to the reservoir, is the ideal setting for hiking and biking. You can also spend an entire day just relaxing, fishing, or kayaking. The town itself offers Leister Park, which comprises open green fields, walking paths, and playgrounds. At Chief Sites Memorial Park, there is a dedicated walking trail and skatepark facilities.
At Roberts Field Pond, you'll find more fishers waiting for a catch, and if you visit during the cold months, you can go ice skating at North Carroll Community Pond. As for hiking trails, there are four to choose from, and they are all as scenic as you want a hiking trail to be. The Prettyboy Dam loop spans 4.5 miles, passing large boulders and roots, a river, and a dam before circling back on the Highland Trail. If you're looking for a more challenging option, the Prettyboy Reservoir South Shore Walk follows the reservoir on the south side and spans 21 miles.
The Leister Park Trail is only 1.3 miles long and mostly flat, so it is a great option for families. The Cape Horn Park Loop is also very easy, at 1.1 miles, and takes around 23 minutes to complete.
Maryland's scenic small towns are more than just quick stops on your way to bigger cities. They invite you to slow down and reconnect with nature. It is in these smaller spaces that you will discover the unexpected and truly reflect on life. So, if you haven't taken the path less traveled yet, the best time is right now.
