Here in Harford Country, there are many hiking trails to explore during the warm seasons.

Hiking is a great way to explore new places, and a way to get a good sweat in. For many, finding a good location is tricky. Here are four local trails that are recommended for beginners.

First, there is the King and Queen Seat loop located in Rocks State Park. The loop clocks in at a solid 3.2 miles and is estimated to take just over an hour and a half to complete. The scenic trail features a great overlook of the entire park from the King and Queen Seat. It’s very well maintained, dog friendly and well-marked. The only downfall is that the overlook at the King and Queen Seat does get very busy.

If you’re looking for a shorter hike, the Falling Branch trail to Kilgore Falls is for you. The 0.7-mile trail leads to a beautiful view of Kilgore Falls, Maryland’s second-highest vertical waterfall. The hike is great for all ages, but beware of the muddy spots and tree roots. To access the waterfall, you do need to cross the stream, so wear proper shoes. If you visit on a summer day, make sure to bring a swimsuit and towel and take a dip to cool off. There are no lifeguards at the falls, so proceed at your own risk. Reservations are required for weekends and holidays between May 1 and Labor Day.

The Pleasantville Loop located in Gunpowder Falls State Park is a decently easy hike. Located near Fallston, the 1.7-mile loop is a popular spot for bird watching. If you’re lucky, you may just spot a bald eagle. The trail is also filled with people looking to mountain bike or trail run along with other hikers. Not only is it great for many activities but it is also very kid friendly.

Lastly, there is the White Trail Loop, located in Rocks State Park. The trail is considered easy and is around 2.5 miles. It is estimated to take just a little over an hour. This is a very popular trail, so seeing other people is very common. The terrain is the most advanced part of the hike because is very rocky.