DC might be a city but we don't lack in the outdoor activities area. In fact, DC is a prime spot if you love to hike. There are many incredible hiking trails in the city and in nearby Virginia, Maryland and West Virginia. You have many choices of hiking trails in the area but we recommend trying the 10 best trails near DC!
1. Maryland Heights Trail (Harper’s Ferry)
This is one of the most popular trail in Harper’s Ferry, a few hours away from DC. You will hike past an old fort, Civil War ruins and are rewarded with gorgeous views of the charming city and the rivers surrounding it.
2. South Valley Trail (Prince William Forest Park)
This 8.7 mile trail is in Prince William County in Northern Virginia. It will take you along Quantico Creek and past picturesque lakes.
3. Falls Nature Trail (Seneca State Park)
This light 1.4 mile trail will take you to Cunningham Falls, the tallest waterfall in Maryland.
4. Whiteoak Canyon (Shenandoah)
While the hike is a bit farther than the others, it makes the list because you will see six different waterfalls during it. It’s one of the prettiest hikes in Shenandoah.
5. Capital Crescent Trail
Capital Crescent Trail is one of the most popular trails in the area. It’s an 11 mile mixed use trail from Georgetown to Silver Spring, MD that has plenty of gorgeous views of the Potomac to keep you occupied.
6. Billy Goat Trail (Great Falls)
The Billy Goat Trail in Great Falls is another popular trail. It features a fun rock scramble and breathtaking views of the falls.
7. Bluebell Trail (Bull Run)
This spectacular trail in Bull Run Park is a one and half mile loop around Bull Run Park. It’s the perfect mid-end of April trial because you can see the 25 varieties of wildflowers in bloom along the trail.
8. Seneca Creek Greenway Trail (Seneca Creek State Park)
The Seneca Creek Greenway Trail will take you through 7.8 miles of beautiful woods and gorgeous views of Great Seneca Creek, as well as, many historical sites.
9. River Trail (Great Falls Park)
While Billy Goat Trail will take you above the falls, the River Trail begins downstream and follows the Potomac through Mather Gorge.
10. Northern Peaks Trail (Sugarloaf Mountain)
Located in nearby Maryland, the Northern Peaks trail is a 6.1 moderate loop around Sugarloaf Mountain. You will be rewarded with stunning views from the popular White Rocks Overlook.
If you love exploring nature, these 9 places in DC will bring out the explorer in you!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!