The best hikes from bus stations in Howard County
4.6
(235)
2,286
hikers
11
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Howard County traverse a landscape characterized by forested river valleys, rolling hills, and several man-made lakes. The region offers diverse terrain, from paths winding along the Patapsco River to trails circling serene lakes. These natural features provide varied scenic experiences for hikers.
Best bus station hiking trails in Howard County
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Cascade Falls – Avalon Area loop from University of Maryland Baltimore County, a 10.3 miles (16.6…
Last updated: August 4, 2026
5
hikers
3.10km
00:49
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
74
hikers
4.73km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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15
hikers
7.84km
02:03
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Howard County
Hikes from bus stations in Patapsco Valley State Park
Hikes from bus stations in Patapsco Valley State Park Orange Grove Area
Hikes from bus stations around Columbia
Hikes from bus stations in Patapsco Valley State Park Avalon Area
Hikes from bus stations in Patapsco Valley State Park Ilchester Area
Hikes from bus stations in Patapsco Valley State Park Deep Run Area
Tips from the Community
It gets very cold as you get close to Patapsco River near the bridge. The bridge does move a little but very secure as you cross it. Be mindful if you’re wearing a skirt (Ms Monroe)
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Lake Elkhorn is the third-largest lake in the county. It is surrounded by woodland and has several paved trails that run along the perimeter of the water.
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The Lake Elkhorn loop trail is a paved trail that circles the lake with the same name. It is an easy trail and traffic free, so it is a great place for a recovery ride.
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Small waterfall created by Cascade Creek. Great place to take a break.
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This popular swinging bridge crosses the Patapsco River. It is a wooden suspension bridge with metal cables. On the bridge you'll have great views of the river and surrounding woodland. It isn't too high up, so even if you're afraid of heights it's still worth passing over the bridge. Be courteous of other pedestrians as the bridge is fairly narrow!
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Lake “Kitt” is a lovely lake that was constructed during the development of Columbia, it has an area of 27-acres. The name of the lake comes from the name of the first Native American settlement in Howard County, and it means “meeting place”. The path around the lake is a nice multi-use paved trail with access to a wood deck, offering an enjoyable biking day.
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The Patapsco Valley State Park Glen Artney Area is a portion of Patapsco Valley State Park that is home to an old grist mill, miles of trails, and a portion of the banks of the Patapsco River.
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This is one of the most popular, well-known parts of Patapsco Valley State Park. There's a nice picnic area, and miles of unpaved trails that are great for walking and running. Keep an eye out for burbling streams and even a few small waterfalls near the trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station hiking trails are available in Howard County?
There are 7 hiking trails in Howard County that are easily accessible from bus stations, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus in Howard County?
Yes, several trails are suitable for families and beginners. The Elkhorn Branch Trail is an easy 3.1 km route, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Another great option is the Lake Elkhorn loop from Lake Elkhorn, which is 4.7 km and offers scenic lakeside paths.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on these bus-accessible trails?
Howard County's bus-accessible trails often wind through forested river valleys and past serene man-made lakes. You can expect to see lush woodlands, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife. Some trails, like those near Patapsco Valley State Park, feature significant natural attractions such as Swinging Bridge and Patapsco Riverbank.
Are there any circular hiking routes from bus stations in Howard County?
Yes, many of the trails are designed as loops, making them convenient for bus-accessible hikes. For example, the Lake Elkhorn loop from Lake Elkhorn is a popular circular route, and the Soapstone Trail loop from University of Maryland Baltimore County also offers a moderate circular experience.
Can I find trails with waterfalls or unique landmarks near bus stops?
Absolutely. The Cascade Falls – Avalon Area loop from University of Maryland Baltimore County is a moderate, longer route that leads to the beautiful Cascade Falls within Patapsco Valley State Park. Along other trails, you might encounter historic elements like the Swinging Bridge on Grist Mill Trail or the Old bridge footing.
What do other hikers enjoy most about bus-accessible trails in Howard County?
The komoot community rates these trails highly, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the accessibility, the well-maintained paths, and the scenic beauty of the lakes and forested areas, especially those offering a peaceful escape close to urban centers.
Are there any trails that offer views of lakes or reservoirs?
Yes, several trails provide excellent views of Howard County's man-made lakes. The Splash fountain – Lake Kittamaqundi loop from Columbia offers picturesque views of Lake Kittamaqundi. You can also find trails around Lake Elkhorn and Centennial Lake.
What is the best time of year to hike these trails?
Howard County's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Even in winter, the trails can be beautiful, especially after a fresh snowfall, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any longer, more challenging moderate hikes accessible by bus?
For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, the Cascade Falls – Avalon Area loop from University of Maryland Baltimore County is a 16.6 km route with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience through diverse terrain.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on these trails?
Howard County is rich in wildlife. On these trails, especially in areas like the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area or the Howard County Conservancy, you might spot various bird species, deer, foxes, and other small mammals. Lakeside trails are also great for birdwatching, including migrating birds.
Are there any specific permits or fees required for hiking these bus-accessible trails?
Generally, no specific permits or fees are required for hiking on the public trails mentioned in this guide. However, it's always a good idea to check the official websites for specific parks, such as Patapsco Valley State Park, for any updated regulations or entrance fees, especially if driving to a trailhead.
Where can I find more information about outdoor activities in Howard County?
For broader information on outdoor adventures and attractions in the region, you can visit the official tourism website: visithowardcounty.com.
Most popular routes in Howard County
Most popular attractions in Howard County
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