1. Sugarloaf Mountain & Northern Peaks Trail: 7.4 miles

About a dozen miles South of Frederick, you'll find Sugarloaf Mountain. While it might be a bit more of a day trip if you want to reach the peak and see the surrounding farmland, you'll want to make it out here at some point.

2. Weverton Cliffs: 1.9 miles

A nice short walk brings you up to an amazing view overlooking the Potomac River. Located within South Mountain State Park near Knoxville, MD, this hike won't leave your pet wondering where you're going for long!



3. Carroll Creak Linear Park: 1.8 miles

Feeling like you might want to see a few less bugs on your walk? The Carroll Creek Linear Park goes through the heart of downtown Frederick - with plenty of pet-friendly businesses for a pitstop along the way. For those that might like a glass of wine on an evening stroll, this trail is for you!



4. Annapolis Rock: 5.1 miles

Another trail located in South Mountain State Park, and along the Appalachian Trail sits Annapolis Rock. Near Boonsboro, the peak comes with a stunning view and great photo opportunities to share on social media!



5. Maryland Heights Loop: 6.6 miles

Located in the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park right outside of Harpers Ferry WV sits the difficult Maryland Heights Loop trail. With a beautiful overlook and interesting history running back to the Civil War, this would make a great day trip.



6. Black Locust Trail: 3.1 miles

To the north-east of Frederick is Black Locust Trail at Gambrill State Park. With stunning views of the valley below, this short trail is brimming with beautiful wildlife and geographical formations. For the short drive, it's sure to be worth a trip!



7. Rocky Stream Bed Trail: 1.3 miles

A short and poorly marked trail, knowing your directions and lining up with the stream bed will help you navigate here. While it isn't exceptionally long, you'll enjoy wonderful views and even see a waterfall. We'd recommend downloading a map of the hike from a service like AllTrails before hitting this hike.



8. Brooks Hill Loop & Thomas Farm Loop: 7.4 miles

Located at a River Bend just south of Francis Scott Key Mall along the Monocacy River, this trail offers plenty of different routes that you and your pet might like to check out. The site of the trail was home to some tough fighting during the Battle of Monocacy in the Civil War. Check it out!



9. Fountain Rock Trail: 0.7 miles

A great trail for some more exploration for your pet and maybe even some kids, this short hike has water features and historical and natural learning centers. While your pup might not get much from reading plaques about butterflies and early American industry, some kids in the family might get a kick out of it!

10. Brunswick Crossing: 1.9 miles

This paved path cuts through many neighborhoods and parks in Brunswick MD, southeast of Frederick. If you or your dog might get some more comfort from a paved path, this might be a wonderful little walk. Mostly straight, and with a walk downhill and uphill back, this would make a great walk.



While this list isn't exhaustive, we hope this offers a quick look into some different trails you might be interested in that allow dogs on leash. If you have to drive to make your way to these trails, make sure your car is locked, and you leave all valuables at home. There have been a number of reports concerning car break-ins at the parking lots of different parks across the state. You can protect your vehicle from a possible insurance claim with some due diligence. We would also recommend that you carry bear spray on your hikes, as dangerous bear and human encounters might not be stopped by the presence of your pet alone.