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South Mountain, Pennsylvania

Looking for the best running in South Mountain? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around South Mountain. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near South Mountain

  • Thurmont, Maryland

    Hike the Catoctin Mountain Extended Loop Trail

    4.5
    8.6 mi / 1696 ft gain
    This 8.6 mile loop trail in Catoctin Mountain Park is good for both hikers and trail runners. This loop is the larger loop in the park, comprised of Cunningham Falls, Hog Rock, Blue Ridge Summit, Thurmont Vista, Wolf Rock, and Chimney Rock. The trail gets a moderate rating because it's mostly roc...
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  • Lewisberry, Pennsylvania

    Hike Quaker Race's Lakeside Trail

    4.0
    3 mi
    This trail is best accessed from the Quaker Race Day Use Area or from the Cabin Colony for cabin occupants. This trail has a dirt or rocky surface, uneven terrain and one steep but short hill. This trail connects to Lakeside Trail at its end to form a 3-mile loop that passes through diverse habit...
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  • Knoxville, Maryland

    Hike to Maryland Heights

    4.8
    2.8 mi / 900 ft gain
    Maryland Heights is at the convergence of Maryland, West Virginia and Virginia, as well as the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. The Appalachian Trail and C&O Canal Towpath are also easily accessible from the trailhead parking lot. The parking lot holds about 16 cars and is between Locks 33 and ...
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  • Knoxville, Maryland

    Hike Maryland Heights Trail Loop

    5.3 mi / 1600 ft gain
    Learn Civil War history as you hike through forts and read signs about the war.  Enjoy beautiful lookouts, including one with a great view of Harpers Ferry.  The 5.3 mile hike is relatively easy and offers an interesting opportunity to learn history in one of the most important historical areas i...
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  • Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

    Hike Weverton Cliffs Overlook from Harpers Ferry

    5.0
    8.2 mi / 925 ft gain
    Parking and trail head: Park at the Harpers Ferry Visitors Center for $10 (171 Shoreline Dr, Bolivar, WV 25425) and take the shuttle a mile and a half to lower town (free).  Walk straight from the shuttle to the large bridge. Cross the bridge to hop on the C&O canal trail. This is the point w...
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  • Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

    Hike Maryland Heights via Harpers Ferry

    4.5
    4.2 mi / 800 ft gain
    Parking and trail head: Park at the Harpers Ferry Visitors Center for $10 (171 Shoreline Dr, Bolivar, WV 25425) and take the shuttle a mile and a half to lower town (free).  Walk straight from the shuttle to the large bridge. Cross the bridge and take a left on the C&O Canal trail. You will s...
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  • Dickerson, Maryland

    Hike the Sugarloaf Mountain Trail

    4.7
    6.05 mi / 1509 ft gain
    Park on Sugarloaf Mountain Drive (as indicated on the map below) to access the trail. It is open from March-November and is dog friendly. 
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  • Owings Mills, Maryland

    Soldiers Delight Loop

    4.7
    5.33 mi / 466 ft gain
    From Deer Park Road, parking is available at the nature center or the scenic overlook (about 100 yards up the road). I typically park at the overlook as this affords the ability to hike trails on either side of the road, and always finish the hike back at the car. From the parking area you are ju...
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  • Owings Mills, Maryland

    Serpentine Trail

    4.5
    2.39 mi / 226 ft gain
    Park in the area off of Deer Park road to access the trail. Dogs are welcome on leash. Trail can get muddy in the spring, and there are some stream crossings. 
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  • Cockeysville, Maryland

    Hike the Oregon Ridge Park Trail

    4.0
    4.02 mi / 475 ft gain
    Park in the lot as indicated on the map (see below). This trail is accessible year round, dog-friendly, and is great for families. 
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