DC is secretly a hiker’s paradise! There are so many scenic hikes in DC as well as the surrounding areas – something you’re well aware of if you’ve ever searched online for “hiking trails near me.” If you’re an avid hiker, or just like to experience nature every now and then, we suggest trekking the trails below, which are some of the best hikes in Washington, DC.

1. Rock Creek Park
5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015, USA
Flickr/Jason Pier in DC
Rock Creek Park has tons of hiking opportunities for Washingtonians! The sprawling park in the middle of the city has two primary trails: the Western Ridge Trail and the Valley Trail. There are several connector trails between the two trails that give hikers endless combinations and loops to hike!
2. Billy Goat Trail
Billy Goat Trail Section A, Potomac, MD 20854, USA
Yelp/M. Gabriela C.
Billy Goat Trail is one of the best hikes near DC. There are three different sections of the trail, each with a different level of difficulty. All of them take you along the Potomac River towards Great Falls, which is one of the best waterfalls near DC.

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3. Extended Loop Trail
14707 Park Central Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Flickr/TrailVoice
Catoctin Mountain Park has plenty for hikers. The Extended Loop trail is an 8.6-mile trail that encompasses three different loops around the park. It gives you a little bit of everything from the view at Thurmont Vista to rock scrambles to the enchanting Chimney Rock. You also get a glimpse of Cunningham Falls from this hike!
4. Falling Branch Trail
Rocks State Park, 3318 Rocks Chrome Hill Rd, Jarrettsville, MD 21084, USA
Flickr/Dave Buchhofer
Falling Branch Trail is in Rocks State Park in Maryland. The trail was actually once a meeting place for the Susquehannock tribe. It’s a pretty 1.3-mile loop that will take you to Kilgore Falls. The falls are 19-feet high and are the second-highest free-falling waterfall in the state!
5. Northern Peaks Trail
Sugarloaf Mountain, Maryland 20842, USA
Yelp/Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain is 45 minutes outside of DC in Dickerson, Maryland. The Northern Peaks Trail is one of the most gorgeous trails on the mountain. It’s a 5-mile trail that takes you across rocky terrain up the mountain, offering lots of great views along the way. The trail stops off near the summit leading you to White Rocks, a spectacular overlook.

Well, what do you think? Are these the best hikes in Washington, DC? What do you think are the most scenic hikes in DC and the surrounding areas? Let us know in the comments.

The best hikes in DC aren’t the only options for outdoor fun. There are so many ways to enjoy the great outdoors including these state parks around Washington, DC.

 

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Best Hikes In Washington DC

Daniella DiRienzo | April 16, 2022

Are there any easy hikes in DC?

There are hikes of all kinds in and near DC. If you’re searching for some kid-friendly hikes around DC, you’re sure to be pleased with a visit to Theodore Roosevelt Island. The tiny island provides a quick respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Nestled in the Potomac River, it’s easily accessible via public transportation, car, foot, and bicycle. The Outer Loop Trail is the perfect way to explore the island. Rated as “easy,” the 1.6-mile trail includes lots of lovely features including boardwalks, marsh areas, and wooded pathways.

What other trails are among the best hikes in DC?

Some of the best hikes in and around DC can be found within Black Hill Regional Park. Located in Boyds, Maryland, the 1,300-acre park is brimming with perks including over 16 miles of hard surface trails. The Black Hill Trail is one of the park’s most popular treks, and that’s because a majority of the trail, which is just over 4 miles, is paved. Those hiking along the park’s trails will be treated to lovely lakefront views, forested pathways, and other stunning sights.

Aside from scenic hikes in DC, what are some other ways to enjoy the outdoors?

Outdoor enthusiasts won’t run out of things to do in and around DC. There are lots of ways to have fun outside including a visit to Brookside Gardens in Maryland’s Montgomery County. Located within Wheaton Regional Park, the award-winning public display garden boasts 50 acres of colorful blooms! Made up of several distinct gardens, the grounds feature a rose garden, Japanese-style garden, azalea garden, and butterfly garden, to name a few.

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