10 Epic Hiking Spots Around Washington DC Are Completely Out Of This World
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Maura
Author
It may be a major city but Washington DC is surrounded by many epic hiking spots for hikers of all levels. With these epic hiking spots in Washington DC, you can enjoy the natural scenic beauty around you and make it back home in time to order in for dinner.
While it’s a bit farther from DC, no list of hikes would be complete without Shenandoah National Park. This picturesque sprawling national park has trails that connect with the Appalachian trail.
If you want waterfalls, head to Scott’s Run Nature Preserve in Northern Virginia, about 30 minutes outside of DC. The trails mostly connect and is great for beginner hikers who want some scenic views.
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Located right on the Potomac River, Theodore Roosevelt Island does not allow any cars or bikes, making it a perfect hiking area with various trails through wooded areas, and swamps as a tribute to the former president.
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On the other side of DC, in Maryland, is the wooded Black Hill Trail. An easy hike the trail will take you through oak tees near the picturesque Little Seneca Lake.
Located just outside of DC in Great Falls in Northern Virginia, the Billy Goat Trail is one of the most popular trails for DC hikers. An easy hike, the Billy Goat Trail has amazing views of the Potomac River.
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If you want to feel historical, hop on the Potomac Heritage Trail that follows the routes George Washington explored. The trail includes a network of trails that connect on either side of the Potomac and up through Pennsylvania.
The Bull Run Regional Park in Northern Virginia has miles of historic hiking trails with picnic areas, scenic views, and gorgeous bluebells when they are in season.
Within an hour of DC, the Lake Artemesia Trail encircles the beautiful lake with several gazebos bordering the edge of the water, making this hike perfect for picnics.
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Rock Creek Park is DC’s urban park that offers 32 miles of trails paralleling Rock Creek and through the rich green scenery. You’ll forget you are in the heart of the city in Rock Creek.
The Capital Crescent Trail is a rail trail that connects Georgetown, DC to Silver Spring, MD. Perfect for bikers, walkers and hikers. You’ll cross bridges, wooded parks, and historic areas.
Do you know of any other hiking spots in or around Washington DC? Feel free to share in the comments.
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