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URLhttps://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/hiking
Last Crawled2026-04-10 06:22:19 (2 days ago)
First Indexed2021-06-04 20:35:44 (4 years ago)
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Meta TitleThe best Hiking in and near Potomac, Maryland
Meta DescriptionOur top picks for Potomac: 1. Hike from Riverbend Regional Park to Great Falls National Park, 2. Great Falls and the Billy Goat Trail, 3. Great Falls of the Potomac, 4. Difficult Run, Ridge, and River Trails and more.
Meta Canonicalcom,theoutbound!www,/united-states/maryland/potomac/hiking?page=1 s443
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Looking for the best hiking in Potomac? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Potomac. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community. Top Hiking Spots in and near Potomac Potomac, Maryland Great Falls and the Billy Goat Trail 4.5 4.61 mi / 272 ft gain Just outside of Washington DC is a great hike and rock scramble you don't want to miss. Great Falls lies in both Virginia and Maryland and has beautiful views of the Potomac River. Start out at the Great Falls Tavern parking lot (Maryland side), and keep in mind it is $10 to park here if you don... Read more McLean, Virginia Great Falls of the Potomac 5.0 0.69 mi / 131 ft gain Great Falls Park, located in McLean, Virginia, is a stunning natural area where the Potomac River cascades over a series of steep, jagged rocks, creating the dramatic Great Falls. This 800-acre park offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it a popular destination for ou... Read more McLean, Virginia Difficult Run, Ridge, and River Trails 4.5 3.28 mi / 463 ft gain Difficult Run is a popular hiking location right down the street from Great Falls National Park. Starting at the Difficult Run parking lot you head to the trail at the far end of the lot. The trail will split. The green blazes will take you to the left but you can also stay to the right and hike ... Read more McLean, Virginia Scott's Run Nature Preserve Loop 4.1 2.51 mi / 397 ft gain This nature preserve can be hiked year-round and is a sanctuary for rare wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife including deer and fox. There are six main interconnecting trails that run through the preserve; winding their way around matured hardwood forest, sheer bluffs, and rocky cliffs overloo... Read more McLean, Virginia Turkey Run to Dead Run 4.5 2.65 mi / 440 ft gain Turkey Run Park is available to hikers year-around and is located just off of George Washington Parkway in McLean, Virginia. The exits are clearly marked and you simply drive to parking lot C-1 to start this hike. Turkey Run has numerous trail options available but I chose an out-and-back. When ... Read more Vienna, Virginia Wolf Trap Loop Trail 3.0 1.83 mi / 144 ft gain If you want a walk that’s close to home but feels like a mini escape, the Wolf Trap Trail Loop delivers. Winding through woods, wetlands, ponds, and along creeks, it offers a nice mix of nature, bird song, and scenic variety—all without leaving the suburbs. Trail Details & What to Ex... Read more Reston, Virginia Lake Anne Blue Trail Loop 1.65 mi / 273.62 ft gain Tucked inside the heart of Reston, Virginia, the Lake Anne Blue Trail Loop is a 1.65-mile loop with 274 feet of elevation gain winding through wooded terrain along the shores of Lake Anne. It's one of the more underrated walks in Northern Virginia — quiet, scenic, and easily accessible from the... Read more Washington, District of Columbia Hike the Soapstone Valley Trail 4.0 2 mi This is an out-and-back trail that starts and ends on different roads, but you will have better luck parking on Albemarle Street NW (where I have indicated the trailhead is on the map). This is a long street with plenty of street parking, just pay attention to the signs to see how long you can le... Read more Arlington, Virginia Theodore Roosevelt Island 4.4 1.88 mi / 85 ft gain It seems only fitting that the president who gave us our national parks would have one all to his own.  Located on the edge of Washington D.C., Theodore Roosevelt Island offers a glimpse of what the city may have looked like before the politicians, before the marble buildings, before the traffic... Read more Boyds, Maryland Black Hill Regional Park Loop 4.3 2.78 mi / 312 ft gain The Black Hill Regional Park has 1300 acres of oak forests that have views of the Little Seneca Lake. This lake offers a place for visitors to canoe and stand up paddle board.  This trail is open to hiking and mountain biking. In addition, dogs are welcome to use the trail but must be on leash a... Read more Washington, District of Columbia National Mall in Washington D.C. 4.8 4.99 mi / 89 ft gain Everyone has so many things on their plates these days that take all their time up. It is hard to get away for adventures or to experience new things. The National Mall in Washington D.C. is within an hour from millions of people on the East Coast. This centralized location makes the National Mal... Read more
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We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Potomac. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community. ## Top Hiking Spots in and near Potomac - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/contents/118523/assets/1495810471487?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=dfff1d083c3a0d7129e73710e302f0ae)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-from-riverbend-regional-park-to-great-falls-national-park) [Great Falls, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/great-falls) ### [Hike from Riverbend Regional Park to Great Falls National Park](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-from-riverbend-regional-park-to-great-falls-national-park) 5\.0 2\.5 mi / 75 ft gain This hike utilizes the Potomac Heritage Trail from Riverbend Park to Great Falls National Park. This section is an easy, mostly flat trail that will take you along the Potomac until you reach Great Falls National Park. When you reach Riverbend Park turn right into the parking lot. At the end of t... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-from-riverbend-regional-park-to-great-falls-national-park) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2019/01/21/15/86ccbe73a7728f6f23634eaaaf7936fe?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=49217f66b2321df22b4c1679dbca87a0)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-great-falls-and-the-billy-goat-trail) [Potomac, Maryland](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac) ### [Great Falls and the Billy Goat Trail](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-great-falls-and-the-billy-goat-trail) 4\.5 4\.61 mi / 272 ft gain Just outside of Washington DC is a great hike and rock scramble you don't want to miss. Great Falls lies in both Virginia and Maryland and has beautiful views of the Potomac River. Start out at the Great Falls Tavern parking lot (Maryland side), and keep in mind it is \$10 to park here if you don... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-great-falls-and-the-billy-goat-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2017/12/16/13/970c1f98a5647f41ce0cb444055557b6?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=43448d1fbda522a66869c42ddacf66c6)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/photography/photograph-great-falls-of-the-potomac) [McLean, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/mclean) ### [Great Falls of the Potomac](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/photography/photograph-great-falls-of-the-potomac) 5\.0 0\.69 mi / 131 ft gain Great Falls Park, located in McLean, Virginia, is a stunning natural area where the Potomac River cascades over a series of steep, jagged rocks, creating the dramatic Great Falls. This 800-acre park offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it a popular destination for ou... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/photography/photograph-great-falls-of-the-potomac) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/uploads/1477314965306/jq6nwa16tutp/3bde5076e7a5c96206f6cf942ec1c49b?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=109cdf80d109d9df1d780a6c1d2e0e44)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-difficult-run-in-great-falls) [McLean, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/mclean) ### [Difficult Run, Ridge, and River Trails](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-difficult-run-in-great-falls) 4\.5 3\.28 mi / 463 ft gain Difficult Run is a popular hiking location right down the street from Great Falls National Park. Starting at the Difficult Run parking lot you head to the trail at the far end of the lot. The trail will split. The green blazes will take you to the left but you can also stay to the right and hike ... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-difficult-run-in-great-falls) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/contents/115464/assets/1480238431867?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=b5a1433b7da3c0ed6894877cc6fe3b82)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-the-scott-s-run-nature-preserve-trail) [McLean, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia) ### [Scott's Run Nature Preserve Loop](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-the-scott-s-run-nature-preserve-trail) 4\.1 2\.51 mi / 397 ft gain This nature preserve can be hiked year-round and is a sanctuary for rare wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife including deer and fox. There are six main interconnecting trails that run through the preserve; winding their way around matured hardwood forest, sheer bluffs, and rocky cliffs overloo... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-the-scott-s-run-nature-preserve-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/contents/115205/assets/1479393087783?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=7cad86e070f4ddc6131fed2847ad918c)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-at-turkey-run-park-mclean) [McLean, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/mclean) ### [Turkey Run to Dead Run](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-at-turkey-run-park-mclean) 4\.5 2\.65 mi / 440 ft gain Turkey Run Park is available to hikers year-around and is located just off of George Washington Parkway in McLean, Virginia. The exits are clearly marked and you simply drive to parking lot C-1 to start this hike. Turkey Run has numerous trail options available but I chose an out-and-back. When ... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-at-turkey-run-park-mclean) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/photos/2025/09/18/1758247237895/6c6f9f92-19e5-449b-a4df-f70e1f2a724e.jpg?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=b0b83c605e85afae5ede4a3dd5ea1e67)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/wolf-trap-loop-trail) [Vienna, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia) ### [Wolf Trap Loop Trail](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/wolf-trap-loop-trail) 3\.0 1\.83 mi / 144 ft gain If you want a walk that’s close to home but feels like a mini escape, the Wolf Trap Trail Loop delivers. Winding through woods, wetlands, ponds, and along creeks, it offers a nice mix of nature, bird song, and scenic variety—all without leaving the suburbs. Trail Details & What to Ex... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/wolf-trap-loop-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/photos/2026/03/22/1774201403555/e46fb7c8-6fd5-4381-bf4f-6b28b7ea412a.jpg?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=db88f4292ffeffa981bc565be3307210)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/lake-anne-blue-trail-loop) [Reston, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/reston) ### [Lake Anne Blue Trail Loop](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/lake-anne-blue-trail-loop) 1\.65 mi / 273.62 ft gain Tucked inside the heart of Reston, Virginia, the Lake Anne Blue Trail Loop is a 1.65-mile loop with 274 feet of elevation gain winding through wooded terrain along the shores of Lake Anne. It's one of the more underrated walks in Northern Virginia — quiet, scenic, and easily accessible from the... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/lake-anne-blue-trail-loop) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2018/10/28/23/409b617d6d0c8edfc527619101ebc164?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=c0c57794cb4cc4705188f28d51e243cd)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-bike-or-run-the-lakeside-trail-and-muncaster-mill-trail) [Derwood, Maryland](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/derwood) ### [Hike, Bike, or Run the Lakeside Trail and Muncaster Mill Trail](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-bike-or-run-the-lakeside-trail-and-muncaster-mill-trail) 4\.5 3\.41 mi / 196 ft gain Park at the Meadowside Nature Center to Access the trailhead. This is a 3.4 mile loop with opportunities for birding and observing wildlife. Dogs are welcome on leash. [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-bike-or-run-the-lakeside-trail-and-muncaster-mill-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/uploads/1464292079569/pe1b0mlgp05rn142/a69680ce86d24550880b7ef70f9297d8?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=51ea44bec830b3d7160631029ea088ee)](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/hiking/hike-the-soapstone-valley-trail) [Washington, District of Columbia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/district-of-columbia/washington) ### [Hike the Soapstone Valley Trail](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/hiking/hike-the-soapstone-valley-trail) 4\.0 2 mi This is an out-and-back trail that starts and ends on different roads, but you will have better luck parking on Albemarle Street NW (where I have indicated the trailhead is on the map). This is a long street with plenty of street parking, just pay attention to the signs to see how long you can le... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/hiking/hike-the-soapstone-valley-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/uploads/1502466224077/5wj720dzy88/3569c53334a782dd07719d458853391c?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=3dbe5ac526c1fa03b3e3945413f0ff03)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-theodore-roosevelt-island) [Arlington, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/arlington) ### [Theodore Roosevelt Island](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-theodore-roosevelt-island) 4\.4 1\.88 mi / 85 ft gain It seems only fitting that the president who gave us our national parks would have one all to his own. Located on the edge of Washington D.C., Theodore Roosevelt Island offers a glimpse of what the city may have looked like before the politicians, before the marble buildings, before the traffic... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-theodore-roosevelt-island) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2019/01/03/11/cc8bdeeac68c183a64d45a1284102fb6?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=aeefa202bd4671e28292e42abf8b93f4)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-seneca-creek-greenway-trail-upper-section) [Montgomery Village, Maryland](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/montgomery-village) ### [Hike the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail Upper Section](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-seneca-creek-greenway-trail-upper-section) 5\.0 14\.86 mi / 836 ft gain Park in the lot off of Watkins Mill Road to access the trail. This hike is dog friendly and is accessible from March until November. [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-seneca-creek-greenway-trail-upper-section) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2022/04/14/00/29740d32681e3964b7a65000a1a10061?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=d99097b331089ed68ef88a0fb2abc817)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/washington-old-dominion-trailand-broadlands-ramble) [Sterling, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia) ### [Washington & Old Dominion Trail and Broadlands Ramble](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/washington-old-dominion-trailand-broadlands-ramble) 5\.0 19\.55 mi / 863 ft gain Washington & Old Dominion Trail and Broadlands Ramble is a point-to-point trail where you may see local wildlife located near Ashburn, Virginia. [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/washington-old-dominion-trailand-broadlands-ramble) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2019/01/21/16/24ab286f564479e8e747352381b969bd?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=d5689326dd995071edec629e1e9216e4)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-or-bike-the-hoyles-mill-trail) [Boyds, Maryland](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/boyds) ### [Hike or Bike the Hoyles Mill Trail](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-or-bike-the-hoyles-mill-trail) 9\.16 mi / 390 ft gain Park on Clarksburg Road (see map) and head onto the marked trail. It can get muddy at times so pack accordingly. Great for kids, and dog friendly too. [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-or-bike-the-hoyles-mill-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2018/12/12/17/688559ac55cc3c617afb7d999d074e1e?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=0640d6339bd3599eba3d459529e32f02)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-black-hill-regional-park-loop) [Boyds, Maryland](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/boyds) ### [Black Hill Regional Park Loop](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-black-hill-regional-park-loop) 4\.3 2\.78 mi / 312 ft gain The Black Hill Regional Park has 1300 acres of oak forests that have views of the Little Seneca Lake. This lake offers a place for visitors to canoe and stand up paddle board. This trail is open to hiking and mountain biking. In addition, dogs are welcome to use the trail but must be on leash a... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-black-hill-regional-park-loop) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2018/02/12/18/a697225a0e2c06eca2ca63d88f65a2c0?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=11133a51708d8675f4f20a022f410baf)](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/photography/visit-the-national-mall-in-washington-d-c) [Washington, District of Columbia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/district-of-columbia) ### [National Mall in Washington D.C.](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/photography/visit-the-national-mall-in-washington-d-c) 4\.8 4\.99 mi / 89 ft gain Everyone has so many things on their plates these days that take all their time up. It is hard to get away for adventures or to experience new things. The National Mall in Washington D.C. is within an hour from millions of people on the East Coast. This centralized location makes the National Mal... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/photography/visit-the-national-mall-in-washington-d-c) 1 [2](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/hiking?page=2) [3](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/hiking?page=3) [4](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/hiking?page=4) [Next ›](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/hiking?page=2) [Last »](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/hiking?page=4) #### Top Activities - [Camping](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/camping) - [Chillin](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/chillin) - [Fishing](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/fishing) - [Fitness](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/fitness) - [Hiking](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/hiking) - [Mountain Biking](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/mountain-biking) - [Photography](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/photography) - [Running](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac/running) ##### Discover - [Local Adventures](https://www.theoutbound.com/explore) - [Camping Nearby](https://www.theoutbound.com/lodging) - [Stories](https://www.theoutbound.com/stories) ##### Community - [Shop](https://store.theoutbound.com/) - [Club Membership](https://www.theoutbound.com/membership) ##### Company - [About](https://everyoneoutside.theoutbound.com/) - [Jobs](https://www.theoutbound.com/jobs) - [Advertise](https://everyoneoutside.theoutbound.com/about#advertise) - [Press](https://everyoneoutside.theoutbound.com/about#press) - [Contact](https://everyoneoutside.theoutbound.com/about#contact) ##### Follow Us - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/theoutbound) - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/theoutbound) - [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/theoutbound) - [Twitter](https://www.twitter.com/theoutbound) - [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/c/theoutbound) ##### Mobile Apps [![App Store](https://www.theoutbound.com/assets/images/app-store-e136f8942a973e63b14ac2bd40c77a184a9e91c8fc31a3f3cdc6989b062d1ac5.png)](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-outbound/id1019328159?ls=1&mt=8) [![Get it on Google Play](https://www.theoutbound.com/assets/images/google-play-badge-4b0cf80c4654c0b05ffc1650a19c9398eeb3a24871b3170309e98b1c7e0c9871.png)](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.theoutbound.theoutbound&utm_source=web&pcampaignid=MKT-Other-global-all-co-prtnr-py-PartBadge-Mar2515-1) © 2026 The Outbound Collective - [Terms of Use](https://www.theoutbound.com/terms) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.theoutbound.com/privacy)
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Looking for the best hiking in Potomac? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Potomac. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community. ## Top Hiking Spots in and near Potomac - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/contents/118523/assets/1495810471487?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=dfff1d083c3a0d7129e73710e302f0ae)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-from-riverbend-regional-park-to-great-falls-national-park) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2019/01/21/15/86ccbe73a7728f6f23634eaaaf7936fe?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=49217f66b2321df22b4c1679dbca87a0)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-great-falls-and-the-billy-goat-trail) [Potomac, Maryland](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/potomac) ### [Great Falls and the Billy Goat Trail](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-great-falls-and-the-billy-goat-trail) 4\.5 4\.61 mi / 272 ft gain Just outside of Washington DC is a great hike and rock scramble you don't want to miss. Great Falls lies in both Virginia and Maryland and has beautiful views of the Potomac River. Start out at the Great Falls Tavern parking lot (Maryland side), and keep in mind it is \$10 to park here if you don... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-great-falls-and-the-billy-goat-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2017/12/16/13/970c1f98a5647f41ce0cb444055557b6?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=43448d1fbda522a66869c42ddacf66c6)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/photography/photograph-great-falls-of-the-potomac) [McLean, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/mclean) ### [Great Falls of the Potomac](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/photography/photograph-great-falls-of-the-potomac) 5\.0 0\.69 mi / 131 ft gain Great Falls Park, located in McLean, Virginia, is a stunning natural area where the Potomac River cascades over a series of steep, jagged rocks, creating the dramatic Great Falls. This 800-acre park offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it a popular destination for ou... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/photography/photograph-great-falls-of-the-potomac) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/uploads/1477314965306/jq6nwa16tutp/3bde5076e7a5c96206f6cf942ec1c49b?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=109cdf80d109d9df1d780a6c1d2e0e44)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-difficult-run-in-great-falls) [McLean, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/mclean) ### [Difficult Run, Ridge, and River Trails](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-difficult-run-in-great-falls) 4\.5 3\.28 mi / 463 ft gain Difficult Run is a popular hiking location right down the street from Great Falls National Park. Starting at the Difficult Run parking lot you head to the trail at the far end of the lot. The trail will split. The green blazes will take you to the left but you can also stay to the right and hike ... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-difficult-run-in-great-falls) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/contents/115464/assets/1480238431867?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=b5a1433b7da3c0ed6894877cc6fe3b82)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-the-scott-s-run-nature-preserve-trail) [McLean, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia) ### [Scott's Run Nature Preserve Loop](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-the-scott-s-run-nature-preserve-trail) 4\.1 2\.51 mi / 397 ft gain This nature preserve can be hiked year-round and is a sanctuary for rare wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife including deer and fox. There are six main interconnecting trails that run through the preserve; winding their way around matured hardwood forest, sheer bluffs, and rocky cliffs overloo... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-the-scott-s-run-nature-preserve-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/contents/115205/assets/1479393087783?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=7cad86e070f4ddc6131fed2847ad918c)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-at-turkey-run-park-mclean) [McLean, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/mclean) ### [Turkey Run to Dead Run](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-at-turkey-run-park-mclean) 4\.5 2\.65 mi / 440 ft gain Turkey Run Park is available to hikers year-around and is located just off of George Washington Parkway in McLean, Virginia. The exits are clearly marked and you simply drive to parking lot C-1 to start this hike. Turkey Run has numerous trail options available but I chose an out-and-back. When ... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-at-turkey-run-park-mclean) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/photos/2025/09/18/1758247237895/6c6f9f92-19e5-449b-a4df-f70e1f2a724e.jpg?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=b0b83c605e85afae5ede4a3dd5ea1e67)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/wolf-trap-loop-trail) [Vienna, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia) ### [Wolf Trap Loop Trail](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/wolf-trap-loop-trail) 3\.0 1\.83 mi / 144 ft gain If you want a walk that’s close to home but feels like a mini escape, the Wolf Trap Trail Loop delivers. Winding through woods, wetlands, ponds, and along creeks, it offers a nice mix of nature, bird song, and scenic variety—all without leaving the suburbs. Trail Details & What to Ex... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/wolf-trap-loop-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/photos/2026/03/22/1774201403555/e46fb7c8-6fd5-4381-bf4f-6b28b7ea412a.jpg?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=db88f4292ffeffa981bc565be3307210)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/lake-anne-blue-trail-loop) [Reston, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/reston) ### [Lake Anne Blue Trail Loop](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/lake-anne-blue-trail-loop) 1\.65 mi / 273.62 ft gain Tucked inside the heart of Reston, Virginia, the Lake Anne Blue Trail Loop is a 1.65-mile loop with 274 feet of elevation gain winding through wooded terrain along the shores of Lake Anne. It's one of the more underrated walks in Northern Virginia — quiet, scenic, and easily accessible from the... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/lake-anne-blue-trail-loop) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2018/10/28/23/409b617d6d0c8edfc527619101ebc164?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=c0c57794cb4cc4705188f28d51e243cd)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-bike-or-run-the-lakeside-trail-and-muncaster-mill-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/uploads/1464292079569/pe1b0mlgp05rn142/a69680ce86d24550880b7ef70f9297d8?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=51ea44bec830b3d7160631029ea088ee)](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/hiking/hike-the-soapstone-valley-trail) [Washington, District of Columbia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/district-of-columbia/washington) ### [Hike the Soapstone Valley Trail](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/hiking/hike-the-soapstone-valley-trail) 4\.0 2 mi This is an out-and-back trail that starts and ends on different roads, but you will have better luck parking on Albemarle Street NW (where I have indicated the trailhead is on the map). This is a long street with plenty of street parking, just pay attention to the signs to see how long you can le... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/hiking/hike-the-soapstone-valley-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/uploads/1502466224077/5wj720dzy88/3569c53334a782dd07719d458853391c?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=3dbe5ac526c1fa03b3e3945413f0ff03)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-theodore-roosevelt-island) [Arlington, Virginia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/virginia/arlington) ### [Theodore Roosevelt Island](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-theodore-roosevelt-island) 4\.4 1\.88 mi / 85 ft gain It seems only fitting that the president who gave us our national parks would have one all to his own. Located on the edge of Washington D.C., Theodore Roosevelt Island offers a glimpse of what the city may have looked like before the politicians, before the marble buildings, before the traffic... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/hike-theodore-roosevelt-island) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2019/01/03/11/cc8bdeeac68c183a64d45a1284102fb6?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=aeefa202bd4671e28292e42abf8b93f4)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-seneca-creek-greenway-trail-upper-section) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2022/04/14/00/29740d32681e3964b7a65000a1a10061?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=d99097b331089ed68ef88a0fb2abc817)](https://www.theoutbound.com/virginia/hiking/washington-old-dominion-trailand-broadlands-ramble) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2019/01/21/16/24ab286f564479e8e747352381b969bd?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=d5689326dd995071edec629e1e9216e4)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-or-bike-the-hoyles-mill-trail) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2018/12/12/17/688559ac55cc3c617afb7d999d074e1e?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=0640d6339bd3599eba3d459529e32f02)](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-black-hill-regional-park-loop) [Boyds, Maryland](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/maryland/boyds) ### [Black Hill Regional Park Loop](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-black-hill-regional-park-loop) 4\.3 2\.78 mi / 312 ft gain The Black Hill Regional Park has 1300 acres of oak forests that have views of the Little Seneca Lake. This lake offers a place for visitors to canoe and stand up paddle board. This trail is open to hiking and mountain biking. In addition, dogs are welcome to use the trail but must be on leash a... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/maryland/hiking/hike-the-black-hill-regional-park-loop) - [![](https://images.theoutbound.com/2018/02/12/18/a697225a0e2c06eca2ca63d88f65a2c0?w=300&h=300&fit=crop&q=60&s=11133a51708d8675f4f20a022f410baf)](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/photography/visit-the-national-mall-in-washington-d-c) [Washington, District of Columbia](https://www.theoutbound.com/united-states/district-of-columbia) ### [National Mall in Washington D.C.](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/photography/visit-the-national-mall-in-washington-d-c) 4\.8 4\.99 mi / 89 ft gain Everyone has so many things on their plates these days that take all their time up. It is hard to get away for adventures or to experience new things. The National Mall in Washington D.C. is within an hour from millions of people on the East Coast. This centralized location makes the National Mal... [Read more](https://www.theoutbound.com/district-of-columbia/photography/visit-the-national-mall-in-washington-d-c)
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