A Few of the Best Hikes in Northern Virginia

If you live in Northern Virginia or the surrounding areas, there’s never been a better time to check out your local hikes.

[Updated June 2023]

Our region is widely recognized for the wide range of parks and hiking opportunities in the area. If you’re new to hiking in Northern Virginia, or could just do with some new routes, check out this list of a few of my favorite trails and places to explore in the area.

Happy hiking! And don’t forget to hydrate. And wear the right shoes. And bring enough snacks. And of course, only take your memories with you and leave your footprints behind.

In this post, we’ll visit:

Trumbo Hollow
Hollow Brook Falls
Bull Run Occoquan Trail
Potomac Heritage Trail
Shenandoah National Park
Mount Vernon Trail
Riverbend Park
Quantico Creek
C&O Canal National Historic Park
Bears Den Overlook
Raven Rocks
Burke Lake Park
Great Falls Park
Ashby Gap
Sky Meadows State Park

A few of the best Northern Virginia hikes

Is there another trail that we’ve missed? Don’t forget to tell me about it in the comments.

Trumbo Hollow

This hike is a stunning combination of both peaceful woods and open fields. By following the Appalachian Trail, you can expect to cross streams and even run into the Jim and Molly Denton Shelter, which has a large front deck, a few bunks, a covered picnic table and a few other basics. This area is also dotted with campsites, so it’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for an easy trail that could become an easy overnight trip. Trumbo Hollow even acts as an unofficial wildlife refuge for many local species.

It also features plenty of natural surface trails for a truly authentic outdoor experience.

Hollow Brook Falls

This out-and-back style trail in Bluemont is known for its beautiful waterfall. As this is one of the lesser known trails in the area, you’re likely to be able to sneak out there by yourself. If your goal is to find the waterfall, cross the stream in the early part of the hike, and take the unmarked trail to the right. It’s also an easier trail, making it a great option for the family. And of course, be prepared to be impressed by the falls.

This is certainly one of the less expected hikes in Northern Virginia – so you can be sure that you’ll be coming back with plenty of memories.

Bull Run Occoquan Trail

Traversing through the Bull Run and Occoquan River watersheds, offering scenic views of forests, meadows, and waterways.

The Bull Run Occoquan trail system is known for its diversity of landscapes and provides opportunities for hiking, trail running, birdwatching, and nature appreciation. It is often enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and individuals seeking a peaceful escape from the urban environment.

The Bull Run Occoquan Trail is not a single, continuous trail but rather a network of interconnected trails that span over various parks, public lands, and natural areas. Some of the parks that may be included in this trail system are Bull Run Regional Park, Fountainhead Regional Park, Hemlock Overlook Regional Park, and the Occoquan Regional Park.

Potomac Heritage Trail

The Potomac Heritage Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that spans approximately 710 miles. It follows the path of the Potomac River, connecting various historical and natural landmarks from the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland to the Allegheny Mountains in Pennsylvania.

The trail is managed by the National Park Service and is designated as a National Scenic Trail, highlighting its significance and beauty. It offers a diverse range of landscapes, including riverside views, woodlands, rolling hills, and even rocky terrain and outcrops, providing hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts with a unique outdoor experience.

It intersects with other major trail systems, such as the Appalachian Trail, C&O Canal Towpath, and the Great Allegheny Passage, offering opportunities for longer-distance journeys and connections to additional trails.

Along the trail, you’ll encounter a variety of historical sites and cultural landmarks that showcase the region’s rich heritage. These include historical towns, battlefields, former canal towpaths, remnants of colonial settlements, and even George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate.

Given the trail’s length, it is typically divided into smaller sections or segments, allowing visitors to explore different portions of dirt path at a time. Some popular sections of the Potomac Heritage Trail include the Mount Vernon Trail near Washington, D.C., the Billy Goat Trail in Maryland’s Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, and the Catoctin Trail in Maryland’s Cunningham Falls State Park.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful and expansive protected area located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, United States. Encompassing over 200,000 acres (80,937 hectares) of land, the park offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous recreational opportunities for visitors.

Established in 1935, Shenandoah National Park is managed by the National Park Service and is renowned for its scenic beauty and the famous Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that winds through the park along the crest of the mountains. The park stretches roughly 70 miles from north to south and is approximately 20 miles wide.

The park’s centerpiece is the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, which is flanked by the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east and the Shenandoah River to the west. The valley is characterized by its rolling hills, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. It is perfect for a hike any time of year, but a fall hike is particularly beautiful.

Shenandoah National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities. Hiking is particularly popular, with over 500 miles of trails that vary in length and difficulty. The Appalachian Trail, one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in the United States, runs for 101 miles through the park.

Camping is a popular option for overnight stays, with several campgrounds available throughout the park. Additionally, there are lodging options such as cabins and lodges for those seeking a more comfortable stay.

Other activities in Shenandoah National Park include scenic drives, picnicking, fishing, horseback riding, and ranger-led programs that provide educational and interpretive experiences about the park’s natural and cultural history. Don’t forget to stop by the nature center.

Entrance fees are required at the parking lot for access to Shenandoah National Park, and passes can be purchased at the park entrance stations or online. The fees contribute to the maintenance and preservation of the park’s resources.

Mount Vernon Trail

The Mount Vernon Trail is a one of the more famous Northern Virginia hikes. The trail spans approximately 18 miles along the Potomac River, offering stunning views of the river, the city skyline, and various historical landmarks.

The trail starts at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate in the south and extends northward to Theodore Roosevelt Island, just across from the Georgetown neighborhood in D.C. It passes through several parks, including Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve, Belle Haven Park, Gravelly Point Park, and Lady Bird Johnson Park, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisurely walks or bike rides.

The Mount Vernon Trail is a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to its accessibility and proximity to urban areas. It attracts a variety of users, including walkers, joggers, cyclists, rollerbladers, and families. The paved trail itself is well-maintained and mostly paved, making it suitable for all skill levels.

The Mount Vernon Trail offers a pleasant and scenic experience year-round. It can be particularly beautiful during the spring with blooming cherry blossoms and fall with vibrant foliage. However, it can get crowded during peak times, so it’s advisable to plan your visit accordingly – the parking lot also fills quickly, so be aware.

Riverbend Park

Riverbend Park is a picturesque park located in Fairfax County, Virginia, along the banks of the Potomac River. It covers approximately 400 acres of natural beauty and offers a variety of recreational and educational opportunities for visitors.

The park is managed by the Fairfax County Park Authority and provides a serene escape from the surrounding urban environment. It features forests, meadows, wetlands, and riverfront views, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Here are some key features and activities you can enjoy there:

Hiking Trails: The park offers fun trails that wind through different ecosystems and showcase the natural beauty of the area. Trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to both casual strollers and avid hikers. Popular trails include the River Trail, the Old Carriage Road Trail, and the Potomac Heritage Trail.
Picnic Areas: Riverbend Park provides designated picnic areas where visitors can relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the peaceful surroundings. These areas often include tables, grills, and access to restroom facilities.
Fishing: The Potomac River access is a popular spot for fishing. Anglers can cast their lines in search of a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and sunfish. A Virginia fishing license is required for anyone aged 16 and older.
Canoeing and Kayaking: The park offers a boat launch area, allowing visitors to launch their canoes or kayaks into the Potomac River. Paddling along the river provides an opportunity to explore scenic waterways and potentially spot wildlife. Please note that bringing your own watercraft is necessary, as the park does not rent out canoes or kayaks.
Nature Center and Education: Riverbend Park offers a range of educational programs, guided hikes, and nature-focused activities for all ages. These programs are designed to enhance visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the park’s natural and cultural resources.

Riverbend Park also hosts special events throughout the year, such as nature festivals, workshops, and seasonal celebrations. These events offer additional opportunities for visitors to engage with the the park land and its offerings.

Quantico Creek

Quantico Creek is a waterway located in Northern Virginia, USA. It flows through Prince William County and Stafford County before eventually emptying into the Potomac River.

Quantico Creek is approximately 14 miles long. It begins near the town of Independent Hill in Prince William County and flows in a southeastern direction, passing through the Marine Corps Base Quantico. The creek’s watershed covers an area of about 74 square miles.

It meanders through diverse ecosystems, including forested areas, wetlands, and marshes. The creek’s proximity to the Potomac River and its tributaries adds to the ecological significance of the area.

It’s worth noting that certain sections of Quantico Creek may be located within the boundaries of the Marine Corps Base Quantico and may have limited public access or additional regulations. If you plan to explore the creek, it’s advisable to check for any specific guidelines or restrictions from the appropriate authorities.

C&O Canal National Historic Park

The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, commonly known as the C&O Canal national historic park, is a preserved historic canal and national historic park, that runs along the Potomac River in the eastern United States. It stretches approximately 184.5 miles from Washington, D.C. through West Virginia, to Cumberland, Maryland.

The C&O Canal was originally constructed in the 19th century to facilitate transportation of goods between the Chesapeake Bay and the Ohio River. Today, it is a popular recreational area, offering visitors opportunities for outdoor activities, historical exploration, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Here are some key features and activities you can experience:

Hiking and Biking: The towpath that once accommodated mules pulling canal boats has been transformed into a scenic trail. The C&O Canal Towpath runs the entire length of the park and is a favorite destination for hikers and bikers. The trail is relatively flat and offers varied terrain, passing through forests, meadows, and charming canal towns along the way.
Canal Boat Rides: In certain sections of the park, visitors can take guided canal boat rides to experience what travel on the canal was like in the 19th century. These interpretive boat rides provide insights into the history and operation of the canal.
Fishing and Boating: The Potomac River, which runs parallel to the canal, offers opportunities for fishing and boating. Anglers can try their luck in catching a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and sunfish. However, it’s important to follow fishing regulations and acquire the necessary licenses.
Historical Structures and Interpretive Exhibits: Along the canal, you’ll find remnants of historical structures, such as lockhouses, aqueducts, and former canal towns. Many of these structures have been preserved and restored, providing insights into the canal’s past.
Camping and Picnicking: The park offers several campgrounds and picnic areas where visitors can relax, spend the night, or enjoy a meal amidst the scenic surroundings. Campsites range from primitive to more developed facilities with amenities.

Bears Den Overlook

Known as a great spot to catch the sunset, Bears Den Overlook is definitely a local favorite. It overlooks the Shenandoah Valley and is marked by a cluster of rocks and boulders at the top of the climb. The changing of the season is the best time for this hike, as colors are truly phenomenal. It’s also a relatively easy climb, making it a great option for new hikers or those who are looking for an easier hike in the Bluemont area with easy access via trailhead parking.

It also is host to the Bears Den Trail Center, which is a visitor center found about 150 yards from the Appalachian Trail. This hidden gem is one of the best hikes in northern virginia, in my opinion.

Raven Rocks

Another trail recognized for its incredible views, Raven Rocks has a vertical gain of 1,530 feet. So once you’ve climbed to the top, you can be sure that the perspective will be worth the work. It’s also known by some as ‘the roller-coaster’, which gives you some idea of the difficulty of the trail (hint: it goes up and down). One more point to keep in mind is that this hike is also known for having a rockier path, so be sure to wear the right shoes. In other words, if you’re looking for a trail for the more serious hiker in Bluemont that is still just minutes from Round Hill, Raven Rocks is it.

Burke Lake Park

Burke Lake Park is a scenic and popular recreational area located in Fairfax County, Virginia, approximately 20 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. It spans over 888 acres and offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.

The centerpiece of Burke Lake Park is a 218-acre lake, providing opportunities for boating and fishing. Visitors can rent pedal boats, rowboats, and canoes to explore the calm waters of the lake. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching bass, catfish, and other species.

It also features a golf course, miniature train rides, and a wide range of hiking trails. It is one of the most versatile options when it comes to hikes in northern virginia.

Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park is a scenic and historic park located in Northern Virginia, just a short drive from Washington, D.C. The park spans both the Virginia and Maryland sides of the Potomac River and is managed by the National Park Service. It is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and abundant natural beauty.

It features a 1.5 mile river trail, bordering the Potomac River. It also has a deer trail that runs along a historic canal and even has rock scrambles for those who seek them.

Great Falls Park is also known for its three scenic overlooks. There are a number of scenic hikes that you can take to achieve them. Some paths are flat and easy – others may require some climbing. A definite favorite for Fairfax county residents.

It also features several hiking trails. The River Trail is a popular choice, as it runs along the river’s edge, offering up-close views of the falls and opportunities to spot wildlife. The park also has woodland trails, such as the Difficult Run Trail and the Matildaville Trail, which provide peaceful walks through forests and meadows. Look out for bald eagles and other wildlife!

Ashby Gap

Located in Paris, Virginia, this trail is built into a wind gap that is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s also another stop on the Appalachian Trail, though closer to the Route 50 side of things than some of the other stops on ridge trail on this list. This hike is also known for having a nice combination of elements, including magical trails, tall trees, and even some open pasture land. In other words, if you’re looking for a trail that gives you a little bit of everything, Ashby Gap may be exactly where your hike begins.

Some popular trails near Ashby Gap include:

Appalachian Trail: The iconic Appalachian Trail passes through Ashby Gap. This long-distance trail stretches over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine and offers stunning vistas, scenic ridges, and a chance to immerse oneself in the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Sky Meadows State Park Trails: Located near Ashby Gap, Sky Meadows State Park offers a network of trails that provide panoramic views, open meadows, and wooded areas. Hikers can choose from various loops and connecting trails, each with its own unique charm.

Sky Meadows State Park

For anyone looking for a more aptly named park, you’re unlikely to find it with Sky Meadows State Park. Located in Delaplane, this state park not only features miles of hiking trails, it’s also marked by open spaces and even a quite sizable picnic area (yum). The lower trails are marked by streams and open fields, and as you continue upwards towards a scenic overlook, you can expect to run into some more heavily wooded portions as well.

These trails are just a few of the incredible hiking opportunities available to us in Northern Virginia. And in this time of uncertainty, any path that takes you outdoors and into nature is sure to be a good one. The benefits for your mental and physical health alike will show themselves quickly.

Is your favorite hike missing from this list? Drop me a comment below and I’ll add it!

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