Annapolis Rocks – Appalachian Trail

Distance: 7.0 miles Elevation Gain: 1000 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Out-and-Back Surface: Natural Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 3-5 hours Fee: None Dogs: True Permit: False

Annapolis Rocks is the premier overlook along the Appalachian Trail in Maryland, a broad quartzite outcrop perched on South Mountain above the Antietam Valley with views stretching across the Cumberland Valley toward the Allegheny Front to the west. The 7-mile out-and-back departs from the Pine Knob trailhead off US-40 Alternate near Boonsboro, following the white-blazed AT northbound along the South Mountain ridge.

The quartzite outcrops at Annapolis Rocks extend for several hundred feet along the ridge edge, offering multiple vantage points including a popular tent camping area managed by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. The AT in Maryland is unusually flat and well-graded compared to sections further south or north, making this a highly accessible outing for families and novice long-distance hikers. The total elevation change is spread over 3.5 miles of gradual climbing.

The nearby Black Rock Cliffs, about 0.5 miles further north on the AT, provide an additional quartzite overlook and can be added to extend the hike. The area sees heavy use, especially from hikers based in Washington DC, Baltimore, and the Frederick corridor. Camping at the Annapolis Rocks campsite requires a free self-registration permit from South Mountain State Park. The AT here is part of the Civil War battlefield corridor near Antietam National Battlefield.