Whether you're a hitting the trail for the first time or are a seasoned hiker, the Washington DC region is rich in natural areas to enjoy with your pup!
Here are a few of our favorite spots:
Prince William Forest: North Valley Trail
Trail Details: 5.4 mile out and back, moderate
Trail Head / Parking: Coordinates: 38.5982144,-77.3701691 Park at the Lake Montclair shopping center on Waterway Dr and cross Rt 234. Then walk up Spriggs Lane Fire Road to reach the trailhead. Check the park's website for up-to-date restrictions.
You can also access the trail from within the park by taking a few connector trails.
Features: This hike features a waterfall, a variety of native plants and trees and foundations of an old Pyrite Mine. Learn more and download maps on the park’s website.
Theodore Roosevelt Island: Self-Guided
Trail Details: There are 3 defined trails on the island–Swamp Trail, Woods, Trail and Upland Trail. Since all of them are quite short, treat yourself by exploring them all!
Trail Head / Parking: Visit NPS site for directions.
Features: An urban park that feels like you’re in the wilderness. The island ecosystem was designed in the 1930’s to honor President Roosevelt and reestablish the natural forest that once covered the island. Great for bird watching and finding a bit of peace from the busy city nearby.
Manassas National Battlefield: First Battle trail with Stone Bridge Connector
Trail Details: 5.5 mile loop, easy to moderate
Trail Head: Visitor’s Center, 6511 Sudley Rd Manassas, VA
Features: Historic battlefield, river views, fields and forest. Visit in April to view beautiful Virginia bluebells along the banks of Bull Run. In the summer months, wear bug spray and watch out for ticks. *Note: there are several shorter and longer trails at this location.
Sugarloaf Mountain: Northern Peaks Trail
Trail Details: 6 mile loop; Follow the Blue Blazes
Trail Head: 7901 Comus Rd, Dickerson, MD — West View parking lot
Features: Moderately challenging with forest views and overlooks. Pack a lunch to enjoy at White Rocks with views of western Maryland farmland. Add 1/4mile on the Red trail to Sugarloaf’s summit at the end. *Note: there are several shorter and longer trails at this location.
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve: Woodland & River Trail loop
Trail Details: 2.9 mile, moderate. With lots of options to shorten and extend.
Trailhead: Google Map to parking and trailhead
Features: Challenging ridge walk, scenic views of the Potomac and plenty of wooded trail goodness. There are a number of ways to shorten or extend this hike so make sure to bring a trail map. Be aware, while leash laws are in place here, many locals don't follow them.
We are so lucky to have such wonderful natural areas so close to the metro area. I hope it will be safe to gather again for the #travelswithollie group hikes again. Join my mailing list or follow along on social for announcements. Until then, be safe and have fun out there!