The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Calvert County
4.5
(16)
217
hikers
9
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Calvert County traverse a diverse landscape, characterized by dramatic cliffs, serene swamps, and sandy beaches along the Chesapeake Bay. The region features wooded areas, tidal wetlands, and unique ecological sanctuaries. Elevations are generally low, with gentle ascents through forests and along waterways.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Calvert County
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Calvert Cliffs Red and Orange Loop Trail, a 5.9 miles (9.5 km) trail that takes 2…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
3.8
(6)
30
hikers
9.46km
02:29
70m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
10.3km
02:40
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
2.95km
00:45
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13.4km
03:29
80m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.70km
01:59
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This dedicated kayak launch area is a popular starting point for avid kayakers in the area. Here you will see plenty of beautiful birds, including lots of ospreys, great blue herons, and red wing blackbirds. There are some great walkways that wind through the marshes, making it a great place to spend time exploring for a couple of hours during your hike.
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Nestled in the heart of the park, are these seven fantastic museums, offering visitors a chance to step back in time. You can explore a blacksmith shop, a tool museum, a tobacco farming museum, a log cabin complete with a chicken coop and meat house, a farrier and tack shop, and a 1923 Sears catalog house. It's a wonderful spot to learn about southern Maryland's history and take some memorable photos.
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This beautiful riverside scenic area spans over 7,000 acres on the far east side of Prince George's County. There is a dedicated kayak launch area, which is a popular starting point for avid kayakers, fishing piers, a rural history museum, and plenty of hiking trails. Here you will see a variety of beautiful birds, including plenty of ospreys, great blue herons, and red wing blackbirds. There are some great walkways that wind through the marshes, making it a great place to spend time exploring for a couple of hours during your hike.
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Calver Cliffs is a small but diverse State Park on the coast of the Chesapeake Bay. In addition to the miles of hiking trails, picnic area, and playground you'll also find a portion of the 24-mile stretch of cliffs made up of former sea beds. This is the namesake of the park and a truly fascinating area where you can look back through time and possibly find fossils of a wide variety of prehistoric sea creatures.
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Beautiful scenery. Nice place to fish. Also has a couple trails to hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Calvert County?
Our guide features 7 family-friendly hiking trails in Calvert County, ranging from easy strolls to moderate adventures. You'll find options suitable for various ages and energy levels.
What kind of natural features can families explore on these trails?
Calvert County offers a diverse landscape for families. You can explore the dramatic Calvert Cliffs, search for fossils on sandy beaches, wander through unique bald cypress swamps, or enjoy serene forests and wetlands. Many trails provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, from birds to amphibians.
Are there any easy, short hikes suitable for families with young children or strollers?
Yes, several trails are perfect for younger children or those looking for an easier outing. The Yellow Loop is an easy option, just under 3 km, offering a gentle experience. Flag Ponds Nature Park also features a short, half-mile walk directly to the beach, ideal for little legs.
Which trails offer opportunities for fossil hunting?
The famous Calvert Cliffs are a prime spot for fossil hunting, particularly for shark teeth. The Calvert Cliffs Red and Orange Loop Trail will lead you towards the beach where you can search for these ancient treasures. Flag Ponds Nature Park also offers fossil hunting opportunities along its sandy shores.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Calvert County?
Many parks in Calvert County are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. For example, Calvert Cliffs State Park generally allows leashed dogs on trails. However, specific areas like the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary may have restrictions to protect sensitive ecosystems. Always check the specific park's rules before you go.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Calvert County?
Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant seasons for family hiking in Calvert County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant colors. Summer can be warm and humid, but shaded trails and beach access points provide relief. Winter hikes are also possible, especially on clear, crisp days.
Are there any circular routes recommended for families?
Yes, our guide includes several circular routes that are great for families. The Calvert Cliffs Red and Orange Loop Trail is a moderate circular option, offering a diverse experience. The Yellow Loop is another excellent easy circular trail.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Calvert County?
The family-friendly trails in Calvert County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique natural features like the fossil-rich cliffs and the cypress swamp, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of landscapes that keep children engaged.
Are there any trails that feature boardwalks for easy access and unique views?
Yes, the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary offers a unique quarter-mile elevated boardwalk that allows families to explore the bald cypress swamp without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. Flag Ponds Nature Park also features a boardwalk leading to a fishing pier, providing scenic views over the water.
Where can I find parking for these family-friendly hiking trails?
Most major parks and trailheads in Calvert County, such as Calvert Cliffs State Park, Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary, and Flag Ponds Nature Park, provide dedicated parking facilities for visitors. It's always a good idea to check the specific park's website for any parking fees or detailed directions before your visit.
Are there any trails that lead to a beach or water access?
Absolutely! Calvert Cliffs State Park features trails, including the popular 1.8-mile 'Red Trail', that lead directly to a sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay. Flag Ponds Nature Park also offers easy access to sandy beaches and freshwater ponds, perfect for a family day out by the water.
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