Being in the DMV for over 17 years, I have had my share of outdoor activities. Everyone knows the DMV for its scenic walks and breathtaking greenery. There are plenty of great trails all over the DMV, and I have here to share some of my favorites in Maryland and VA with you.
As a girl trying to get back into fitness, I am always looking for fun activities to hold my interest. I love hiking and a view that keeps me fully entertained. Whether you are looking for an easy hike or rock scrambling – I have it all! From a U.S. National Park to parks dedicated to a previous president and chasing a cascading waterfall.
So grab your hiking gear, hiking equipment, plus snacks! Here are a few of my favorite spots. And let’s not forget how important it is to be fashionable, comfortable, and cute on the trails! Pop into your local Lululemon, Athleta, or Target for the perfect outdoor sets. The important part is finding sets that are lightweight and breathable to kick this summer heat!
VA HIKING TRAILS :
- Great Falls Park: 30 mins outside of DC – Mid to moderate Trails
Many locals and visitors love Great Falls Park for its amazing views. If you ask anyone about their favorite Trail in Great Fall, they will tell you it’s Billy Goat Trail! Though it is a little strenuous with some rock scrambling, it is a very fun and beautiful hike along the Potomac River. The trail is around 8 miles long and starts and finishes on the C&O Canal.
- Shenandoah National Park: 2 hours outside of DC – Easy to Strenuous Trials
This is one of my absolute favs! If you are up for the drive (it’s worth it!) Shenandoah National Park has several short hiking trails you can take to reach magnificent views in just a short amount of time. Though I love a long and fun hike to the top of summits, I enjoy Shenandoah because I can hike 4 – 6 trails with scenic views for miles.
Maryland Hiking Trails:
- Cunningham Falls State Park ( Cliff Trail): 1.5 hours outside of DC – Easy Trail
Cunningham has some of the best trails for beginner hikers and a 78-foot waterfall that makes the hike well worth it. Fun fact it’s super close to local wineries to cap off the day!
- Sugarloaf Mountain: 1 Hour outside of DC – Moderate Trail
Known as one of the best Maryland trails among hikers, this trail features beautiful views of the surrounding central Maryland area. Sugarloaf Mountain is a very popular site amongst the locals, so don’t expect a lonely walk. This is a loop-style trail that will give you a decent workout due to a good mix of terrain and elevation levels.
If this happens to be your first hike, or you are like me and getting back into it. Check out the list below of key must-haves for a summer Hike and where you can grab them to make your hike a breeze.
◻︎Thermal Water Bottle (keeps your drink cold): Target, Luluelmon
◻︎Small backpack: Target
◻︎Light snacks: Nuts, berries, bars
◻︎Sunblock
◻︎Bug Spray
◻︎Lightweight pants or shorts: Lululemon, Athleta (My favorite are the Align bikers shorts)
◻︎Lightweight top: Lululemon, Athleta
◻︎Hiking shoe or boot
