There are so many things to do in Maryland, whether in the sea, mountain or city, there is absolutely something for everyone all year-round. During the summer, Maryland is a popular weekend getaway and vacation destination for DC residents. The main attraction is the fine beaches and protected parks, some crowded, some secluded, but all beautiful. The top choices are: Assateague Island National Seashore, Ocean City Beach, Bethany Beach, Cherry Beach Park, and Cape May.
The Maryland shore provides plenty of places to kayak or canoe, which is becoming an increasingly popular activity. Ayres Creek Adventures offering kayak and canoe tours just outside Ocean City, but if you want some lessons first, seek out Adventure Crafters School of Coastal Kayaking on the eastern side of the Chesapeake Bay.
Whitewater rafting is available in a controlled and safe environment at the Olympic-level, manmade course at the Adventure Sports Center International in Deep Creek Lake. Aside from rafting, they have kayaking, canoeing, river-boarding, climbing, rappelling, skiing, golf, and mountain biking here.
Golf players will absolutely love Maryland, with over a 100 public and private courses. The most stunning are located on the eastern shore or around Ocean City. The top rated greens are: Congressional (Bethesda), Caves Valley (Owings Mills), Baltimore (Lutherville), and Columbia (Chevy Chase). Enthusiasts can attend one of the many tournaments held here such as the Maryland Open or USGA Amateur Qualifying.
Maryland, with its big shoreline and plentiful rivers and lakes, is a perfect destination for anglers. One popular fishing venue is the Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park. Visitors can dangle their legs off the lighthouse pier and catch a variety of fish. However, more serious fishermen will find a whole range of sport tours out in the Chesapeake Bay via Down Time Charters, Chesapeake Bay Sport Fishing and Upper Bay Charter Captains Association.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities in the numerous wildlife sanctuaries in Maryland. One popular pastime is bird watching. Assateague Explorer offers tours in the Assateague’s Wildlife Refuge, while the Audubon Society in Baltimore arranges field trips.
Hikers will fall in love with the Allegheny Highlands Trail, which follows the old Western Maryland Railroad for just over 20 miles. The trail then links to the C&O Canal Towpath, which could bring the total hike to 320 miles from Washington DC to Pittsburgh. It is possible to bike this path, as well. The other option is to hike all (2,100 miles!) or part of the Appalachian Trail.
Maryland is not only about summer activities, but has a lot to offer for the winter, as well. There are plenty of ski resorts for downhill and cross-country skiing or snow shoeing. For something more unusual, why not try dog sledding? In Accident, visitors should seek out Husky Power Dog Sledding, which offers mushing with Siberian huskies.