 Welcome to the MPS "Miles for Maryland" 250 Mile Trail Challenge Program
Greetings Friends!
Thank you for joining the “Miles for Maryland” Trail Challenge. To help commemorate America’s 250th (semiquincentennial) and the Maryland 250 we are challenging you to hike 250 miles during 2026. We are looking forward to seeing you in one of Maryland’s State Parks soon, as you work toward logging your 250 miles.
|
Maryland State Parks welcomed nearly 5,000 hikers for First Day Hikes on January 1. I spent my First Day in Garrett County, chasing frozen waterfalls, counting the rings on trees, hiking with friends (both two and four-legged), and enjoying the freshly-fallen snow. Western Maryland is experiencing winter weather a bit more than the rest of the state right now, but don’t go off and hibernate...grab your layers, put on your hiking boots, and explore some of Maryland’s most-cherished places. If you’re not fond of mosquitos or humidity, this is truly the best time to come visit.
“Miles for Maryland” newsletters will be published monthly, so be sure to check your inbox during the first week of each month to plan your hikes and get some tips from our wonderful and knowledgeable rangers. This month is focused on some of the winter activities in our parks, whether you want to take part in a guided-hike or find a trail to explore on your own, we hope you’ll enjoy getting outdoors and breathing in some fresh air. Maryland State Parks have about 1,153 miles of trails and we hope you’ll find your happy place as you challenge yourself to hike 250 miles.
Peace, love, and pine cones,
Angie Crenshaw,
Director, Maryland Park Service
Tips for Trail Users
To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike, keep these things in mind:
- Wear appropriate footwear. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Know your route and be prepared for emergencies. Carry a map of the trail or download one in advance.
- Bring along plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
- Bring a basic first aid kit and safety equipment, just in case.
- Dress for the weather and wear layers to stay comfortable.
- Stay on marked trails to protect yourself and the environment.
- Let someone know your itinerary and route – cell phones may not have a signal in some areas. Let someone know your plans, especially for longer hikes.
- Help us sustain our trails. Avoid trail use in wet conditions. We recommend you wait at least 24 hours after a rain event before venturing out along the trails again.
|
Upcoming Winter Activities: Western Maryland State Parks
New Germany State Park Offers Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Rentals
Cross country skis and snowshoes are available for rent at the Lake House (403 McAndrews Hill Road, Grantsville) from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily, weather permitting. All equipment must be returned by sunset. You can find out more information about rental rates: bit.ly/4r0Rxwl
New Germany also provides a Cross Country Ski Report on their website: mddnr.info/3LTFiTu
Herrington Manor State Park Offers Cross Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, and Sledding
When the snow conditions allow, equipment rentals, snacks and gifts are available at the Lakehouse on the weekends and at the park office during the week. Rentals are available 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. when conditions allow good, safe skiing. You can find more information here, including the current cross country skiing conditions: mddnr.info/3LJLzkD
***We ask that snowshoe users and hikers give priority to skiers by keeping off ski tracks. Skiers should be mindful of their abilities and stay on trails that are appropriate for their skill level.
Snowshoe Class at New Germany State Park
January 31: 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the Lake House (weather dependent)
During this 1.5-hour class, participants will learn the basics of snowshoeing before venturing into the snowy forest with Ranger Julia. The class will conclude with hot chocolate around the fire at the Lake House. The cost is $60 per person with snowshoe rentals or $20 per person if using personal equipment. Minimum class size is 2 people. Maximum class size is 10. Registration is required by emailing julia.musselwhite@maryland.gov by January 16. This class is dependent on adequate snow cover.
Skiing by Candlelight at New Germany State Park
February 14: 5-8 p.m. at the Lake House (weather dependent)
Enjoy this unique opportunity to ski at night, where the Turnpike Trail will be illuminated by luminaries! The luminaries will be on from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. If snow conditions are not suitable for skiing, the luminaries will still be lit for any adventurous hikers out for a night hike.
Make sure to stop by the Lake House for complimentary s’mores and hot cocoa!
|
Where is Myles?
Have you seen Myles? Print off a paper copy of our traveling squirrel from the Miles for Maryland website and take him along on some of your adventures!
Earlier this month, Myles joined in the "Hike Into the New Year" night hike at Calvert Cliffs State Park and then headed over to Sandy Point State Park for a First Day Hike along the Chesapeake Bay. Myles also made a very short guest appearance on WJZ Sunday morning news with Ranger Melissa at Patapsco Valley. Keep an eye out while you are completing your 250 miles!
|
Upcoming Guided Hikes:
Frost Bite Hikes at Seneca Creek State Park
January 23 and 30: Meet at 2 p.m. at the Park Office - Seneca Creek State Park
Don’t let the cold keep you indoors! Bundle up and join the Frequent Hikers group for a slow-paced loop hike starting at the park office, where we can warm up indoors and use the restrooms. Discover how the trails change in winter and learn to identify trees by their bark, seeds, and size. Remember: there’s no bad weather for hiking, only poor clothing choices! Be sure to dress for the weather, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and bring plenty of water.
Full Moon Hike at New Germany State Park
January 31: Meet at 6:30 p.m. at the Lake House (weather dependent)
Embrace the beauty of the forest under a full moon on this 1-mile hike with Ranger Noah. This "Snow Moon" will be the second full moon of winter. Please bring a flashlight or headlamp.
Serpentine Ecology and History Hike at Soldiers Delight
February 8: Meet at 1 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Serpentine grasslands are rare and beautiful ecosystems filled with unique plants, ancient geology, and centuries of human history. Follow Park staff as we explore the Serpentine grasslands of Soldier’s Delight, learn their past, and discuss the methods we use to fight threats facing the savannah. Limited to 15 participants. Will include hiking on a trail with moderate slopes, uneven terrain, and areas of direct sun. Shine only, temperatures above freezing only. Signup encouraged.
Winter Tree ID Hike at Soldiers Delight
February 14: Meet at 2 p.m. at Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Learn about the dichotomous keys and how to use them to identify trees during the winter! Afterwards, we’ll put our new ID skills to the test on a hike through part of our Serpentine Trail, so prepare for a hike on rocky terrain and a slight elevation change. Signup required, limited to 15 participants. Weather permitting.
“Miles for Maryland” Trail Challenge: Guided Hike at Seneca Creek State Park
February 21: Meet at 2 p.m. at Quail Ridge Picnic Area - Seneca Creek State Park
Join us for a monthly guided hike series to explore Seneca Creek State Park while building toward your 2026 Miles for Maryland Trail Challenge goals! Each hike explores park trails at a relaxed pace suitable for all ages and abilities. Hike distances will be adjusted to group interest and ability, ranging from 2-5 miles. Whether you’re aiming for all 250 miles or just starting your journey, these monthly hikes are perfect for making progress and having fun outdoors. Please bring plenty of drinking water and dress for the weather.
Maryland’s Story is America’s Story
Experience Maryland
To truly know Maryland is to experience it firsthand. That’s why we’re inviting you to visit historic places and attend events that celebrate all that our state has contributed to America’s 250 years.
|
Annual Pass Available for Purchase
$75 for Marylanders; $100 for out-of-state visitors
Our annual State Park and Trail Passport grants unlimited day-use admission and boat launching at state parks, and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals.
To enhance convenience and value, this year's pass will arrive in a self-contained packet with a detachable hang-tag, and will be valid for a full year from the month of purchase.
Our network of 75 state parks include more than 900 miles of trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding, as well as unique water access and camping facilities.
First Responders & Law Enforcement Discount:
$40 off the Annual Park Pass, which provides unlimited day-use entry to all Maryland State Parks, plus free boat launching and discounts on concessions and boat rentals.
Offer good for Maryland residents only.
|
|
