Sunset over Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, Virginia

McAfee Knob in Virginia is one of the most photographed spots along the Appalachian Trail.

Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

C&O Canal Towpath, Maryland

The Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Cumberland, Maryland

Sunset over Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, Virginia

McAfee Knob in Virginia is one of the most photographed spots along the Appalachian Trail.

Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

C&O Canal Towpath, Maryland

The Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Cumberland, Maryland

Top Trails & Mountain Experiences Near Washington

There's plenty of hiking in DC to be found! Head to the Capital Region for adventure or serenity in the mountains.

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Looking for a great way to explore the mountains and trails around Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC? Here are several!

Hike the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail stretches 2,180 miles (3,508 km) from Maine to Georgia. About 590 of those miles (950 km) run through the beautiful Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and Maryland. People of all ages and abilities enjoy short walks, day hikes and long-distance backpacking journeys. It offers a variety of opportunities for viewing spectacular scenery and wildlife, exploring, adventure, nature study and renewal.

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway & Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive, part of Shenandoah National Park, runs 105 miles (169 km) along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains until it meets the Blue Ridge Parkway. The parkway, frequently voted “America’s Favourite Drive,” continues along the mountains another 469 miles (755 km) through southern Virginia and into North Carolina. There are lay-bys to admire the scenic vistas, camp grounds and hiking trails to explore and charming small towns to visit along the way.

Cycle the Great Allegheny Passage

The Great Allegheny Passage rail-trail offers 150 miles (241 km) of nearly level trails for hiking and biking between Cumberland, Maryland and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The trail winds along rivers and through shaded valleys and small towns. In Cumberland, the Great Allegheny Passage joins the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath, creating a continuous, 335-mile trail to Washington, DC.

Explore Mountain Towns

Located in the valleys of the Appalachian Mountains, the towns of Cumberland, Maryland and Roanoke, Virginia offer scenic mountain views and easy access to a variety of outdoor recreation. Learn about the towns’ railroad heritage, explore vibrant arts communities, dine on local food and wine, and shop at unique boutiques.

Dive into Deep Creek Lake

With 65 miles (105 km) of shoreline, Deep Creek Lake is Maryland’s largest freshwater lake. This four-season resort area offers plenty of choices for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, swimming, waterskiing, hiking and golf. White water enthusiasts love Adventure Sports Center International — the world’s only mountaintop white water course. 

WANT TO EXPLORE MORE TRAILS? Check out these scenic biking routes throughout the Capital Region!