What’s better than spending a Saturday exploring the great outdoors? Within a couple of hours of Washington, D.C. are many of the most exquisite hiking trails in the United States. We’ve compiled five energizing hikes that are perfect for intermediate level hikers. It’s time to get your hike on.
The Potomac Heritage is a national scenic trail cutting through sections of Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, but for our purposes, let’s focus on Hike 9 along the C&O Canal. The trail covers 12.8 miles and is quite close to the capitol. Intermediate hikers will enjoy the length, technical spots, and points of interest, including Fletcher’s Boathouse, Abner Cloud House, B&O Railroad trestle, and more along the way.
Take in the beauty of Washington, D.C.’s National Arboretum on the West Side nature trail. The trail is a roughly-two-mile loop popular with hikers, walkers, bikers, and runners. The trail is best experienced during the fall to take in the luscious flowers and surroundings.
The Valley Trail in Rock Creek Park begins only a stone’s throw away from the capitol. This out and back route has an elevation gain of over 1,200 feet and continues for just over 11 miles. Make sure you’re ready to traverse some difficult terrain!
Two trails in the same park? Since D.C. is such a small area, hikers are best served by exploring every nook and cranny available to them. The Western Ridge Trail is just under five miles and features a river, 800 feet of elevation gain, and a loop route. Dogs are welcome.
Tidal Basin and Hains Point is one of the easier loops featured, but will still get your heart pumping. The 5.4-mile loop through the park is accessible all year and is perfect for hiking, trail running, snowshoeing, and walking. Dogs are more than welcome to join!
