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Elk Neck State Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 2,511 Google reviews · Running trail in North East, Maryland · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- 4 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Elk Neck State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Bayside park has an 1833 lighthouse & recreation such as fishing & hiking, plus camping facilities.
What runners say about Elk Neck State Park
“The view was beautiful, landscaping was well maintained, and the staff were incredibly friendly.”
“The view was beautiful, landscaping was well maintained, and the staff were incredibly friendly.”
“Amazing views, calm water, the best picnic spots, and cool cabins.”
The park is absolutely beautiful. The campground is nice, with easy access to the bathrooms and showers. Some spots even have views of the water (though it can be hard to see through the trees). The trails are a lot of fun, not too long but still adventurous.
Overall great place. Average size sites for a state park. Lots of wildlife. Park staff was friendly and helpful. Some of the trails could use some trimming but it is spring time. Verizon Cell service is very poor in the area.
Cute little state park. There is a small tiny little beach by the light house with tons of little shells. If you don’t know the beach is there you might miss it- while walking from the parking lot to the light house, there is a trail that goes off to the right. Follow that and the beach is maybe 1/4 mile down.
Took our pups for a walk on the beach. It was GORGEOUS. A perfect spot to pick sea shells, sea glass, drift wood for crafting, and the view is breathtaking. The pups had a blast and we did too. Highly recommend stopping by, there is even a swing set overlooking the water.
Trail conditions & character
“The view was beautiful, landscaping was well maintained, and the staff were incredibly friendly.”
“BTW, There are porta potties at the lighthouse area, Not really any seating in the shade though.”
“If you don’t know the beach is there you might miss it- while walking from the parking lot to the light house, there is a trail that goes off to the right.”
“If you’re looking for a calm and peaceful vacation, you’ve found the perfect place at Elk Neck State Park.”
“Love the hike to see the light house the views where amazing and fishing at the marina was fun.”
Plan your run at Elk Neck State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- Distance4 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitednr2.maryland.gov
- Phone(410) 287-5333
Running trails near North East
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Concord Point Park
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Park featuring a boardwalk, pier, and lighthouse, plus picnic facilities and a public restroom.
Frank J. Hutchins Memorial Park
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Park featuring picnic tables, a fishing spot, and a weekly farmers market, plus a public restroom.
McLhinney Park
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Park featuring a playground, swings, and trails that are good for walking dogs, as well as fishing.
North Park Loop Trail (Joe K's Trail)
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City park featuring a riverside trail with a beach, playground, and opportunities for birding.
Elk Neck State Forest
4.6 ★★★★★ 505 reviews
Vast nature preserve featuring areas for hunting, as well as hiking & horseback riding trails.