The Baltimore area has several well-developed trails that are ideal for biking, running, and walking with strollers. For the most part these trails are paved and level, suitable for children and novices
BWI Bike Trail
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The BWI Bike Trail is an 11-mile loop around BWI Airport, mainly on a smooth asphalt surface with brief segments on streets with traffic. A spur of the trail by I-97 connects with the Baltimore & Annapolis trail.
The route of the BWI Bike Trail is mostly level, with a couple of bridges and one challenging looping hill approaching Andover Park on the north. The Amtrak station has a drinking fountain, bathroom, and vending machines. Bathrooms are available at Andover Park and the Dixon Aircraft Observation Area on Dorsey Road on the southern end of the loop.
You can park and begin the loop at several spots. Parking lots are available at the Amtrak station, Andover Park, and the Dixon Aircraft Observation Area. There is also parking east of I-97.
Baltimore and Annapolis Trail
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Runs 15.5 miles along a passenger/freight line from Dorsey Road near BWI airport to the Annapolis waterfront. At the northern end of the B&A Trail, a short spur connects with the BWI Bike Trail. The southern portion of the trail travels through suburban neighborhoods; Glen Burnie, Pasadena, Millersville, Severna Park, and Arnold, ending near the Cromwell Light Rail Station. The trail passes near Marley Station Mall and has a ranger’s station (410-222-6244).
Gwynns Falls Trail
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Traveling its 15-mile length of the Gwynns Falls Trail is rewarded by a tour through Baltimore’s hidden natural resources and the cradle of the city’s industrial origins.
From the trailhead in historic Franklintown, on the city’s west side, the Gwynns Falls Trail courses through 30 neighborhoods to Cherry Hill Park on the Middle Branch of the Patapsco. The trail makes a core sampling of the city’s history along the way, resulting in an experience that is as enlightening as it is invigorating. [MORE]
Northern Central Railroad Trail
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The NCR Trail begins in the Hunt Valley area and runs 20 miles to the Maryland state line, and another 20 or so miles to York, Pennsylvania. The southern portion of the NCR Trail is relatively flat, through wooded terrain and rural expanses. As you travel North through Baltimore County along the Gunpowder Falls, the hills become increasingly challenging. On the Pennsylvania side, theer are convenient amenities as the route courses through developed areas.
Number Nine Trolley Line
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A paved trail on the old Number Nine trolley line, running about 1.5 mile from the end of Edmonson Avenue through Oella to the Patapsco River at the doorstep of Ellicott City.
The Number Nine trail runs through wooded greenway along the Cooper Branch, and includes a wooden boardwalk and a rustic suspension bridge. The trail is popular with bicyclists and people with dogs and/or children. The trail courses downhill from Catonsville to Ellicott City. Riding from west to east is continuously uphill. Parking is available in a lot at the Ellicott City end or along Edmonson Avenue at the eastern end.
