The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Ocean City

Ocean City and its surrounding areas offer a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 8 routes, with 7 of them being easy, making them suitable for families with children of various ages.

Yes, several areas offer stroller-friendly options. The Ocean City Boardwalk is a popular choice, providing paved surfaces and ocean views. Additionally, Assateague Island National Seashore features accessible boardwalk trails like the Life of the Forest Trail and Life of the Marsh Trail, perfect for strollers.

For toddlers, short and flat paths are ideal. The Ocean City Boardwalk offers a gentle, paved surface. Northside Park also has over a mile of scenic bayside walking trails that are easy for little legs, complete with playgrounds for extra fun.

Many of the trails around Ocean City are designed as loops, which are great for families. The various Ocean City Boardwalk loops are excellent examples, offering continuous scenic walks. Northside Park also features circular bayside trails, and Herring Creek Nature Park has winding trails that can be combined for loop experiences.

Dog policies vary by location. While the Ocean City Boardwalk has specific hours for dogs (typically off-season or early mornings/late evenings during peak season), many natural parks are dog-friendly, often requiring leashes. Always check specific park regulations before you go, especially for places like Assateague Island National Seashore which has designated pet-friendly areas.

The region is rich in wildlife! On Assateague Island, you're likely to spot the famous wild horses, various migratory birds, and deer. Herring Creek Nature Park is a fantastic spot for birdwatching, and you might see frogs around its pond. Coastal trails often offer glimpses of marine birds and other small creatures.

Absolutely! Herring Creek Nature Park in West Ocean City is often considered a hidden gem. It offers peaceful winding trails through wildflower meadows, pine forests, and along a salt pond, providing a tranquil escape and excellent birdwatching opportunities. You can find more information about it at visitmarylandscoast.org.

Spring and fall are generally ideal for family hiking in Ocean City. The weather is milder, and the trails are less crowded than in the peak summer months. However, summer offers warm beach weather combined with early morning or late afternoon hikes, and even winter can be pleasant for a brisk walk on a sunny day.

During summer, light, breathable clothing is essential. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics, and always bring hats and sunscreen to protect against the sun. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and consider bringing insect repellent, especially for trails near wetlands or forests.

Yes, the Rackliffe House Trail, located near the Assateague Island Visitor Center, leads to the historic Rackliffe House, which dates back to the 1740s. This trail also offers beautiful views of Sinepuxent Bay and Assateague Island, combining nature with a touch of local history.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Ocean City, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the easy accessibility, the beautiful coastal and natural scenery, and the variety of options that cater to different ages and energy levels, from boardwalk strolls to nature park explorations.