Rock Maze Trail Parking & Trailhead

Rock Maze Trail Parking & Trailhead is a small pull-off on Snaggy Mountain Road in Garrett State Forest, north of Oakland, where a short out-and-back walk of under a mile leads to the Rock Maze. It's a good fit for families and anyone who wants a quick, shady outing with something to explore at the end.

The Walk to the Maze

The path climbs gently through woods and ferns before reaching a jumble of large stacked boulders with narrow passages, crevices and small cave-like spaces to scramble through, with rhododendron growing among the rocks. The trail isn't well marked, but the worn tread on the ground is easy to follow, and some hikers bring a map or GPS app for peace of mind. Sturdy shoes help on the rocky ground around the maze. The trailhead has room for only a handful of cars.

About Garrett State Forest

The Rock Maze sits in Potomac-Garrett State Forest, about 19,000 acres of public land in southwestern Garrett County. Garrett State Forest began in 1906, when the Garrett brothers donated 1,977 acres to the state, a gift DNR describes as the foundation of Maryland's public lands system and the Maryland Forest Service. Pets are welcome throughout the forest on a leash at all times. Snaggy Mountain Road is also a designated off-road-vehicle route, so watch for traffic on the road, and wear blaze orange during hunting seasons.

Before You Go

The forest headquarters is at 1431 Potomac Camp Road in Oakland. Staff are often out in the field, so call ahead if you have questions about road closures or trail conditions. Because the walk is short, it pairs easily with a visit to nearby Swallow Falls State Park for a fuller day out.

Pack water and good footwear, and give yourself time to poke around the boulders once you get there.

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