If you are looking for some of the best hikes in Washington DC, these nine trails are easy and short! From beginner levels to advanced hikers, there is something for everyone. Each one will make the perfect addition to your outdoor bucket list. So strap on your boots, grab a friend, pack some water, and let’s get hiking.

1. Rapids Bridge Loop — 2 miles
Rapids Bridge, Washington, DC 20011, USA
Flickr/NatureServe
This two-mile loop is in Rock Creek Park and is a perfect place to spot wildlife such as foxes and deer. Short and sweet, it is definitely one of the best hikes in Washington DC.
2. Swamp Trail - 1.5 miles
Theodore Roosevelt Island, Washington, DC, USA
Flickr/Mike Myers
The Swamp Trail is on Theodore Roosevelt Island and overlooks the Potomac River. On this easy trail, you can enjoy views of the natural swamplands of the island on the wide boardwalk. Popular with locals and visitors, the trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Washington DC.
3. Appalachian Trail North - 2.5 miles
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, USA
Flickr/m01229
In Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, just a few hours away from DC, you can hike the most level part of the Appalachian Trail. It's a beauty and the area is so full of history too!
4. Blue Blazes Whiskey Still Trail — 0.3 miles
Catoctin Mountain Park, 14707 Park Central Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Flickr/Harvey Barrison
The Blue Blazes Whiskey Still Trail is in Catoctin Mountain Park in Maryland. There was a large commercial moonshine operation here until 1929 and you can read about the dramatic raid that occurred on placards throughout the hike. It is also one of the most kid-friendly hikes around Washington DC.

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5. Cedar Trail, Deer Trail, and Heron Trail Loop - 2.1 miles
Huntley Meadows Park, 3701 Lockheed Blvd, Alexandria, VA 22306, USA
Flickr/Mrs. Gemstone
Located near Alexandra, VA in Huntley Meadows Park, this easy loop is great for all skill levels. There’s a beautiful 500-acre marsh full of wildlife on the trail, making it both beautiful and one of the best hikes in Washington DC.
6. Wildlife Trail - 0.5 miles
Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, 1730 Eastern Neck Rd, Rock Hall, MD 21661, USA
Flickr/Bureau of Land Management
This quick trail loop is in the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge in Maryland. This wooded trail passes some wetlands and offers opportunities for wildlife sightings.
7. Henry Hill Trail - 1.3 miles
Battlefield Drive, Battlefield Dr, Manassas, VA 20110, USA
Flickr/Alan Kotok
The Henry Hill Trail, yet another of the best kid-friendly hikes around Washington DC, gives visitors a look at history. Located in Manassas Battlefield Park, this easy and short hike takes you past some of the most important locations of the fighting Bull Run during the Revolutionary War.
8. Cedarville Pond Trail - 3 miles
Cedarville State Forest, Maryland 20613, USA
Flickr/F Delventhal
An hour outside of Washington DC, in the Cedarville State Forest, this relatively flat trail takes you through a wooded area and has picturesque lake views.
9. Milkhouse Ford Loop - 1.7 miles
Google Maps
Located in Rock Creek Park, this loop is one of the quieter parts of the park that has many historical points of interest including the remains of an old Civil War fort.

Have you been on any of these hikes? Which were your favorites? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences.

While you are creating your outdoor bucket list, add these incredible natural wonders hidden in Washington DC!

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More to Explore

Best hikes in Washington DC

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | July 25, 2022

Are there any waterfall hikes around Washington DC?

If you love waterfall hikes, you’ll find plenty around DC! Each offers its own unique setting and beauty and is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Check out Kilgore Falls, South River Falls, Cascade Falls, or the Dark Hollow Falls. These are just a few to get your waterfall hike list going! 

I’m looking for a food-themed road trip.

Washington DC is a foodie paradise and you can find all manner of amazing gastronomic fare anywhere (really, anywhere!) you look. There is a particularly tasty food-themed road trip that takes you to classic places like Lincoln’s Waffle Shop, Ben’s Chili Bowl, and Le Diplomate, just to name a few. Loosen your belt buckle, ‘cause you’re gonna need the room (just sayin’!). 

Where can I find a kid-friendly hike in the Washington DC area?

Kid-friendly hikes in the Washington DC area are plentiful. One of the most popular is the Northern Peaks Trail at Sugarloaf Mountain. The trail extends 5 miles, so it might be more suitable for older kids. However, you can always only hike part of it before you loop back, depending on the physical stamina of the people in your group. The terrain along the way is varied, encompassing paved areas, open meadows, and rocky outcrops, so plan your footwear and clothing accordingly.

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