As the weather warms up, you may notice its getting a little busier out there in our parks! And we aren't just talking about the number of hikers on the trails, but also how busy nature is right now.
For the month of May, our featured hikes will highlight Birds & Blooms. Now is a great time to listen to the birds and look for the blooms, and collect a few more "Miles for Maryland."
For those looking for birds on the trail this month, we have a couple of suggestions, including May's Ranger Recommended Hike.
Ranger Mollie from Rocky Gap State Park recommends grabbing a pair of binoculars for your next "Miles for Maryland" hike. Take a leisurely walk along Rocky Gap's 5.3-mile Lakeside Loop Trail in Allegheny County to look and listen for birds who call this area their summer home! This trail meanders around Lake Habeeb, but provides glimpses into many habitat types along the way. By the amphitheater, you'll be greeted by red-winged blackbirds and cheered on by the calls of yellow warblers. Near the campground bridge, listen closely for American redstarts and common yellowthroats. As you traverse through the campground area, keep an eye and ear out for some of our most idyllic singers, wood thrushes, as Rocky Gap is home to a large population! You may even spot the bold colors of a scarlet tanager, too. By the dam, see how many different species of swallows you can locate- we've had up to five...can you spot them all? When you reach the Touch of Nature area, turn your ears to the densest parts of the forest for the song of the elusive worm-eating warbler that breeds near the parking lot! All along your travels, keep an eye out for the local bald eagles and ospreys who call Lake Habeeb their fishing grounds. AllTrails Lakeside Loop Rocky Gap Lakeside Loop Map
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Mountain Laurel in Bloom photo by Ranger Elena Gilroy
Did you know? Mountain laurel is found in all parts of the state, from the mountains of Maryland to the Eastern Shore. This native evergreen shrub typically blooms from late May through mid-June. Look for clusters of pink and white, cup-shaped flowers of Mountain Laurel during your hikes this month.
Here are a few featured hikes for May that will have Mountain Laurel in bloom:
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Yellow Poplar or Black Locust Trails at Gambrill State Park, Frederick County- Check out either the Yellow Poplar or Black Locust Trails for the “best blooms” at Gambrill State Park. Mountain Laurel is typically found along the ridgetops of both trails. Gambrill Trail Map
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Yellow Poplar (7 miles) – Moderate – Yellow blaze – The longest of the Gambrill trails, this trail is moderately difficult. AllTrails Yellow Poplar Trail Loop
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Black Locust (3 miles) – Difficult – Black blaze – This trail truly showcases the beauty of Gambrill State Park, from its wooded slopes to the breathtaking views. AllTrails Black Locust Loop
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Gunpowder South Trail at Gunpowder Falls State Park- Hereford Area (Wildlands Area), Baltimore County (3 miles total)- The Gunpowder South Trail between Falls Road and Prettyboy Dam in Hereford is a gorgeous early summer hike to see mountain laurel in bloom. There are multiple areas where the trail winds through mountain laurel so dense, it actually forms a trellis over the trail. Several Park Rangers have told us that this favorite hike in Gunpowder. It's about 1.5 miles one way (but it is an out-and-back, so plan on 3 miles total). There are also rock scrambles, making this a moderately difficult trail. Gunpowder Hereford Trail Map
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White Loop at Rocks State Park, Harford County (3 mile loop) - While the White Loop at Rocks is best known for the King and Queen Seats, this loop is also the best for blooming mountain laurel. Be aware, the trail is steep and rocky, so wear appropriate footwear. Free parking is first-come first-served at the Rocks Office, but you can also jump on the loop from the Rock Ridge or Wilson's Picnic Area. There is a day-use parking service charge at picnic areas. Rocks Trail Map AllTrails White Loop- Rocks State Park
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Red Trail at Calvert Cliffs State Park, Calvert County (1.8 miles one way) - The Red Trail is well known as the shortest path to the beach at Calvert Cliffs. But from mid to late-May, this trail is also spectacular for the mountain laurel blooms. The good news is that you don't have to go all the way to the beach to see the mountain laurel- it will greet you almost as soon as you set foot on the trail. Calvert Cliffs Trail Map
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Bald Cypress Trail at Pocomoke River State Park (Milburn Landing Area), Worcester County (1 mile) - Enjoy a short hike in the Bald Cypress Swamp to look for blooming mountain laurel, and migratory birds, like the Prothonotary warbler. Find your route on the Pocomoke River Trail Map or AllTrails bald Cypress Nature Trail map.
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Prothonotary Warbler photo by William Pulley
While enjoying the blooms of Mountain Laurel at Pocomoke River State Park keep your eyes out for prothonotary warblers. These bright yellow birds, nicknamed "swamp canaries," often forage in the understory of forested wetlands. Prothonotary warblers are a vibrant, "swamp-loving" species that nests in flooded forests, including the cypress swamps of Pocomoke River State Park- which are prime habitat. They are often found nesting in tree cavities near water. May is typically the best time to see them here.
Where's Myles?
It certainly seems that Myles has been out and about with many of you during the past month. We love following his adventures with YOU!
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Myles taking some time to smell flowers...
Photo on right submitted by Justin- it looks like Myles found a patch of bluebells to explore at Gunpowder Falls State Park!
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Myles also loves to pose with hikers near park entrance Ssigns!
Photo on left submitted by Shirley, at the entrance sign to the McKeldin Area of Patapsco Valley State Park.
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Myles really loves a good overlook - who doesn't?
Photo below submitted by Cole, of Myles in the mountains.
Thanks to everyone who has submitted photos while tracking their miles. Don't forget to submit your best photos with Myles - it may be in the next newsletter!
Upcoming Park Events:
Mountain Maryland Native Plant Festival
May 9, 2026 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at New Germany State Park
Discover the important connection between native plants, people, and wildlife at the 11th annual Mountain Maryland Native Plant Festival!
A large variety of native plants and nature-themed artisan items will be available for sale (cash or check only). Educational programs and family-friendly outdoor activities at the festival will highlight native plants and biodiversity. Experts from local organizations will be available to answer questions on native plants and other conservation topics throughout the day. For more information, please call 301-895-5453 or visit the event website.
A variety of trails at New Germany can be explored while you’re visiting - New Germany State Park Trails
May Guided Hike Opportunities:
May 10: Mother’s Day Hike
Meet at 2:30 p.m. at the Nature Shack at Seneca Creek State Park
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a guided hike led by a volunteer naturalist. The pace will be comfortable and suitable for all ages. The group will decide the distance, with a full 3.7-mile loop around Clopper Lake available as the maximum route.
May 23: Miles for Maryland Challenge Hike
10 a.m. at Chickadee Picnic Area Trailhead at Seneca Creek State Park
Join our monthly guided hike series and work toward your 2026 Miles for Maryland Trail Challenge goals! This month, we’ll enjoy rhododendron blooms along the Greenway Trail and a stroll through the peony garden.
Find all of the programs offered at Seneca Creek State Park online.
May 31: Upper Patuxent River Geology
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Nature Center at Patuxent River State Park
Guided hikes at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Join us for presentations and hikes! Guided hikes will feature the Sykesville Formation (“Potomac bluestone”). We’ll go off-trail to see this locally quarried stone and explore its role in shaping the Appalachian Mountains. Dress for the weather and bring water.
Find all of the programs offered at Patuxent River State Park online.
AMERICA IN MINIATURE:
2026 State Park Adventure Challenge is now underway!
To commemorate the MD 250 and America’s semi quincentennial, Maryland State Parks are challenging you to the “America in Miniature: 2026 State Park Adventure Challenge”.
Maryland is often referred to as "America in Miniature" because so much is packed into its 10,460 square miles of land and waters. The nickname comes from the fact that within a few hours' drive, one can travel from ocean beaches to mountain forests. The "America In Miniature" title also applies to Maryland’s role in our nation's history. Maryland's story is America's story.
Click here for all of the details and to register: America in Miniature Adventure Challenge
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SAVE THE DATE!
4th Annual PaddleFest at Janes Island State Park- Saturday, June 6, 2026
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.
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