Posted in D.C.
October 21, 2016
10 Incredible Hikes Under Five Miles Everyone Around Washington DC Should Take
Washington DC is known to still feel Indian summer warmth well into fall. It’s a great time to enjoy the last days of beautiful weather. If you are looking for an easy and fun way to soak up the last few weeks of fall, we have the perfect activity for you. If you want to get outdoors, enjoy the fall foliage and get your exercise in, you must try these 10 best hikes under five miles around Washington DC.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
The Patowmack Canal Trail is located inside Great Falls National Park at 9200 Old Dominion Drive in McLean Virginia. The trail is 1.25 miles and follows the remains of the Patowmack Canal, which was one of the first canals built in the United States. You can also see some amazing ruins of the town Matildaville.
Located in Rock Creek Park, this moderate hike will take you pass two historic structures from the 1820s, the Peirce Mill and Eprice Barn. There are a few rocks to climb over and beautiful views of the flora and fauna.
This 3.3 mile trail will take you past beautiful vistas and rock formation in Catoctin Mountain Park near Thurmont, Maryland. The trail is not long but you will want to spend some time snapping photos of the views.
Prince William Park has many trails to explore but the North Valley is one of the most popular. On this 2.6 mile trail, you will enjoy a wooden footbridge, beautiful views of Quantico Creek and historic foundations from an old pyrite mine.
Soapstone Valley Trail is one of the lesser trafficked trails in Rock Creek Park. You will hop stones across the rippling creek into the valley. The trail is only about a mile and half before it drops you off at Broad Branch Road.
The Bluebell Trail is a mile and half loop in Bull Run Regional Park in Northern Virginia. This trail is a smaller trail off of the Bull Run Occoquan Trail where you can see 25 different types of wildflowers, including the beautiful bluebells.
Black Hill Trail is a paved trail through Black Hill Regional Park in Boyds Maryland. You start at the visitor center and then wind through the woods between Little Seneca Lake and Little Seneca Creek, catching beautiful views of the water.
Just off the Appalachian Trail in Delaplane, VA, Sky Meadows Gap Run is a 4.6 mile loop trail that has many beautiful overlooks and scenic views.
Harpers Ferry in West Virginia, an hour outside of Washington DC is a beautiful place to see nature and experience history. Maryland Heights is a 4.8 loop that combines history and beauty. You’ll pass scenic overlooks and civil war fortifications on this beautiful hike.
Cash Lake - Patuxent Research Refuge Trail is a 2.2 mile loop near Laurel MD. This short hike is an animal lovers dream. You may find a variety of wildlife on the trail including blue herons, ducks, turtles, egrets and more!
While you are hiking around Washington DC, take a look at what might be the most beautiful hike in the area!
