The trail follows the former route of the Annapolis and Baltimore Short Line Railroad, which once utilized steam locomotives to ferry passengers to the Maryland state capital.
The corridor was officially converted into a recreational trail starting in the 1980s after decades of rail service abandonment.
The trail features a rare 1940s-era caboose on display at the Earleigh Heights Ranger Station, serving as an on-site museum.
Because it follows a former rail grade, the trail maintains a relatively flat elevation, making it ideal for accessibility and long-distance endurance training.
The route crosses several historic stone culverts and passes through deeply wooded corridors that serve as micro-habitats for local wildlife.
The Baltimore and Annapolis Trail Park is a 13.3-mile paved rail-to-trail conversion connecting the outskirts of Baltimore to downtown Annapolis. The path follows the historic right-of-way of the B&A Railroad, which operated passenger service between 1887 and 1950. It serves as a vital non-motorized transportation corridor through Anne Arundel County, passing through Severna Park, Arnold, and Parole. The trail features a surface of asphalt and crushed stone, designed to accommodate cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians. Several historic train stations and remnants of the former rail line are preserved along the route, providing a historical context to the recreational path. It links seamlessly with other regional greenways, forming part of the broader East Coast Greenway network. The park is managed by Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks.
The historic caboose located at the Earleigh Heights Ranger Station trailhead.
Use the Earleigh Heights Ranger Station as your primary hub for clean restrooms and local trail maps.
Be aware that the trail crosses several major road intersections; always yield to traffic and use provided crossing signals.
Weekends can be congested with local families and group cyclists; opt for weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Attempting to traverse the entire 13.3-mile length in one go without verifying your fitness level or water supply.
Cyclists must yield to pedestrians and always provide an audible warning before passing.
