Nested along the Appalachian Trail in South Mountain State Park, Annapolis Rock offers a 5 mile in-and-out hike with spectacular views.  The trail has modest elevation gains, so come prepared to climb steps. This hike is very popular among hikers in the Washington DC, Baltimore, and Northern Virginia area. Being such a well-known hike, it is wise to arrive early especially during summer months, as the parking lot can fill to capacity.   Annapolis Rock also has a camping area for backpackers, so it is a great place to plan an overnight hike.

As a bonus, keep heading north 1.2 miles past Annapolis Rock on the Appalachian Trail to reach Black Rock Cliffs. These cliffs offer beautiful views as well, and don’t attract nearly as many crowds as Annapolis Rock due to being located further up the trail.