
What we’re about
We're a friendly, inclusive hiking group. Most of our hikes are in Central Maryland, within 20 minutes of I-695. We have hikes for beginners, which are around 4 miles, and easy terrain. We also have weekly hikes that are moderate or strenuous for more experienced hikers. The hikes will be labeled as "easy" (mainly flat, walking), "moderate" (a mix of some hills and flat trail) or "strenuous/difficult" (steep hills or rock scrambling).
Other activities might be camping, kayaking, sailing, climbing, and winter activities like bowling, dancing...any suggestions??
To request membership, in your primary Meetup profile you will need to use your actual name including last name or initial, and post a recognizable headshot photo. Please make needed changes to your Meetup profile before applying! Thanks, Tim
Upcoming events
2

Miles for Maryland! Annapolis Rock via Thurston Griggs & AT - Moderate+ 6 miles
Thurston Griggs Trail, 21998 White Oak Road, Hagerstown, MD, USPlease join me for a spectacular hike on a small section of the AT!
HIKE OVERVIEW
This hike kicks off a new series of Maryland State Park hikes that I’ll be leading throughout 2026. The aim is to explore great state park trails together, and for those of us participating in Miles for Maryland, to chip away at our miles. You do not need to participate in the challenge to join, though!
On this hike, we’ll take the “back-door” route to Annapolis Rock via the Thurston Griggs Trail, and stop at Black Rock on the way. Both viewpoints offer stunning views and are well worth the effort. The first mile is the steepest, and the trail is rocky in parts. Out-and-back route.
Optional lunch/drinks afterwards — location TBD (likely a brewery!)
HIKE DETAILS (please read carefully)
I’ll update this description after I scout the route. For now:
- Meeting time: 10 am (please arrive by 9:45 so we can start on time)
- Distance: ~6 miles
- Elevation gain: 1000+ ft
- Pace: Moderate/brisk ~2.7 mph. We’ll take frequent short breaks and longer breaks at the viewpoints, but please note this is not a leisurely pace!
- AllTrails
- IMPORTANT: Please bring at least 2.5 liters (about 2.5 quarts) of water and a snack.
- Dogs: Please leave your pups at home for this one.
- Restroom and parking/carpooling info to come closer to the time.
ABOUT THE SERIES
From March through December (I’m away until mid-February), we’ll aim to hike at least twice a month in Maryland State Parks. Distances will vary between ~5 and ~12 miles. The loose goal is to get as close as possible to 250 miles by the end of the year.
Again, you don’t have to commit to anything. Join one hike or many!
The official blurb: To commemorate the MARYLAND 250, Maryland State Parks is challenging you to hike 250 miles in State Parks this year! Complete the “Miles for Maryland” Trail Challenge as either an individual or as a team. Register online, explore Maryland’s State Parks’ trails, track your miles, and earn great prizes! You can do hikes in ANY Maryland State Park! With over 80 State Parks across Maryland, there is probably a State Park within minutes of your home. Everyone who registers for the “Miles for Maryland” Trail Challenge will receive a commemorative keepsake item for participating. Additional prize drawings will be available for those who complete 250 miles.
If you’re interested:
More info & registration
Map of Maryland State Parks
Submit your miles - this hike is in South Mountain State Park.
PLEASE NOTE
- If bad weather or conditions require cancelling or rescheduling, I’ll post an update the evening before.
- Your organizers are volunteers sharing a passion for the outdoors. We organize events to enjoy nature, get exercise, and meet great people.
- Please remember you are responsible for your own safety. We can’t eliminate all risks, and you must make decisions that are right for you. We’ll use common sense to keep things as safe as possible.
16 attendees
Past events
1528


