The Potomac Heritage is a national scenic trail cutting through sections of Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, but for our purposes, let’s focus on Hike 9 along the C&O Canal. The trail covers 12.8 miles and is quite close to the capitol. Intermediate hikers will enjoy the length, technical spots, and points of interest, including Fletcher’s Boathouse, Abner Cloud House, B&O Railroad trestle, and more along the way.
Take in the beauty of Washington, D.C.’s National Arboretum on the West Side nature trail. The trail is a roughly-two-mile loop popular with hikers, walkers, bikers, and runners. The trail is best experienced during the fall to take in the luscious flowers and surroundings.
The Valley Trail in Rock Creek Park begins only a stone’s throw away from the capitol. This out and back route has an elevation gain of over 1,200 feet and continues for just over 11 miles. Make sure you’re ready to traverse some difficult terrain!
Two trails in the same park? Since D.C. is such a small area, hikers are best served by exploring every nook and cranny available to them. The Western Ridge Trail is just under five miles and features a river, 800 feet of elevation gain, and a loop route. Dogs are welcome.
Tidal Basin and Hains Point is one of the easier loops featured, but will still get your heart pumping. The 5.4-mile loop through the park is accessible all year and is perfect for hiking, trail running, snowshoeing, and walking. Dogs are more than welcome to join!
]]>Harpers Ferry combines the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Potomac River, and Shenandoah River with incredible historical significance. As one of the best walking parks in America, hiking through Harpers Ferry is an absolute treat. Its 4,000 acres covers sections of West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia, offering many access points for the weekend D.C. hiker. Our favorite spot? The footbridge over the Potomac River. Additionally, consider the four-mile hikes across Civil War battlefields near Maryland Heights.
Despite being one of the only hiking options in the District of Columbia proper, Theodore Roosevelt Island is still one of the least visited attractions. The island, a living memorial to Theodore Roosevelt, takes up 89 acres on the Potomac River. Hikers will find miles of trails through the woods and swamp throughout the island, and a noticeable lack of tourists to boot.
The United States National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. is one of the nation’s most exquisite natural features. And, okay, while it isn’t a “hike” per say, those that aren’t able to travel outside of D.C. proper to the surrounding states will find plenty of scenic beauty and walking trails to enjoy. The arboretum holds events, such as their popular Full Moon Hike. New flowers and fauna are planted seasonally, and there’s always something new blooming.
Prince William Forest Park, just over 30 miles outside of D.C., is one of the closet hiking spots. The park boasts 37 miles of hiking throughout its 15,000 acres across 16 unique trails. Start with the shortest and easiest hike with the Quantico Cascades trail before moving up to the North Valley Trail and the 10-mile-long South Valley Trail.
Rock Creek Park, in D.C. proper, covers 1,754 acres and 32 miles of hiking. Choose from the Western Ridge Trail or the Valley Trail, or design your own hike. According to the Rock Creek Park website, visitors should “think of these connectors as the rungs of a ladder. Using this principle, it is possible to create an almost infinite number of loops in lengths from about one mile to 10 miles.” For more information and maps, check out the official website.
]]>The Fort Circle Park National Recreation Trail is a perfect running getaway for Civil War buffs and those that don’t believe D.C. has much open space to offer. This 7.9-mile trail connects Forts Chaplin, DuPont, and Mahan, used as defensive forts in the Civil War. According to the official website, the trail “runs along the traces of old roadways, through forests of oaks, beech, maples, and pine.” Runners will find a natural earth surface here.
The Fountainhead Regional Park in Fairfax County, Virginia, has over 2,000 acres of outdoor areas, perfect for all kinds of recreational activities. The park, just over 30 miles outside of the capitol, boasts an 18-mile, dog-friendly trail with a dirt surface. Make sure you bring your trail running shoes!
The Algonkian Regional Park in Sterling, Virginia, is another wonderful location for trail running near the D.C. area. The trails are largely part of the greater Potomac Heritage Trail System, although you can always go off the beaten path to make your own. You’ll find over three miles of natural surface trails, as well as tons more throughout the park.
Stop by the Seneca Creek State Park, just 20 miles outside of D.C., for over 6,300 acres of outdoorsy goodness. Visitors can choose between marked hiking and running trails and more challenging trails following the Seneca Creek. You’ll find nearly 30 miles of trails throughout the park to keep you running.
The Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail in Fairfax County, Virginia, has a wide variety of surfaces for all different kinds of runners. But for those interested in stepping off asphalt and onto a more natural path, you’ll want to stay to the Difficult Run. The entire trail is over 40 miles long, so make sure to chart a path ahead of time to avoid getting lost.
]]>The trail is a good two-hour drive outside of D.C. proper, so why not get energized with coffee and breakfast before you head out? Ted’s Bulletin is a fantastic breakfast spot with several locations in the D.C. area. You can even call ahead and get your breakfast to go if you’re itching to get on the trail as soon as possible!
Once you get to the Savage River State Forest, make your way to the brand-new St. John’s Rock ORV Trail. You’ll need to make a reservation ahead of time and get a day pass. The trail is technical with single-track and two-way tracks. Check out the .5-mile Chestnut Oak Scramble, the .44-mile Red Maple Scramble (two sections), or the 1.25-mile Sassafras Scramble (also two sections).
When you’re done off-roading, consider going for a scenic hike through the Savage River State Forest. Trails of various difficulty are available to mountain bikers, backpackers, and hikers. Each offers beautiful nature views well-worth the extra effort.
Drive to the nearby town of Frostburg, Maryland, for a healthy dinner at the hip, chic SHiFT. This farm-to-table eatery has vegetarian and vegan options, as well as “modern Appalachian.” After a long day in the forest, we recommend the chicken paprikash dish to regain your energy.
After dinner, drive 10 minutes from Frostburg to Savage, Maryland, to spend the night at the historic Castle Bed and Breakfast. The Castle was built in 1840 and retains much of its vintage charm.
While you’re in the area, why not spend the next morning visiting Frostburg’s Historic District? The area certainly earns its spot on the National Register of Historic Places, and is well-worth a gander before heading home.
]]>Theodore Roosevelt was a big birdwatcher himself, having studied them extensively. It’s no surprise then that the Theodore Roosevelt Island in the District of Columbia is a fantastic location to watch hundreds of unique bird species. Choose any of the three routes available!
The National Arboretum is home to many different kinds of birds, including hawks, sparrows, great horned owls, barn owls, and much more. You might even find bald eagles along your nature walk through this 446-acre estate. Make sure to take time to enjoy the enchanting collection of trees.
The Glover Archbold Park and Nature Trail is a birdwatcher’s dream, particularly those interested in migratory birds. You’ll find an ample number of warblers and thrushes here.
Take part in a Sunday bird walk, led by the Kenilworth Park rangers “to find resident birds and arriving migrants from the tropics,” according to their website. Binoculars are provided for this all-ages walk. Can’t make an organized expedition? Come out on your own for a fun nature hike.
The 18-mile Mount Vernon Trail connects many parks throughout the Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. corridor. The trail eventually cuts through the Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserves, which is known as one of the best birdwatching spots in the area.
]]>West Marine is one of the biggest boating and fishing stores in the country, and the Alexandria, Virginia, location is a scant 15 minutes outside of D.C. Stop by the shop for any number of excellent fishing hooks, floats, bobbers, rigging kits, tackle rigs, and more.
Fletcher’s Boathouse in Washington, D.C. is one of the best docks in the city. The attached tackle shop sells bait and tackle, including Okuma brand spinning rods and reels, Eagle Claw hooks, Mepps, Rooster Tail and Cotton Cordell lures, and much more.
The Orvis in Bethesda sells a wide variety of bait and tackle for anglers of all kinds. Shop for all kinds of bait fish including Muddler Minnows, Grassett’s Snook Minnows, and much more.
Since 1951, the Washington Marina Company has provided excellent service to Washington’s various boaters and boat-sportsmen. They service boats with thousands of parts, and has a full-service marina facility.
Frager’s in Washington, D.C. is one of the best-reviewed shops in the city, having won the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Hardware Store” from the Washington City Paper. While they’re mostly known for their hardware and household supplies, they stock a wide array of sporting equipment, including fishing material.
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If you’re willing to travel a little off the D.C. beaten path, then Anglers Sports Center in Annapolis, Maryland, should be a definite inclusion on your list. They stock anything an angler could need, including bait, apparel, and other fishing gear.
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Three Ridges in the George Washington National Forest is one of Virginia’s most popular backpacking sites. The hike follows along a portion of the Appalachian Trail and features incredible vistas and waterfalls. Note that the hike itself can be quite difficult. You’ll find several campsites along the way, any of which would make for a great home base.
Located about an hour outside of D.C., the Bears Den Rocks overlook the stunning Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. From this area, you can actually hop on the legendary Appalachian Trail for a hike. There are great biking trails in the area, as well. There is a convenient primitive camping spot at Bears Den with five sites, fire rings, and picnic tables.
The Horse Pen Branch Campsite is part of the larger Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, and is a backpacker’s favorite. The site is not available by car, so you’re going to need to hoof it. Amenities include water, a picnic table, grill, and chemical toilet, although please note that the water isn’t on from Nov. 15-April 15.
Catoctin Mountain Park is the home of presidential retreat Camp David, and features some of the best amenities and hikes in the beltway area. Set up shop at the Owens Creek Campground in the park. It has 49 sites available for tent campers.
Westmoreland State Park is on the Potomac River’s northern section and offers a visitor center, campgrounds, cabins, camping cabins, and more. Bird watchers will love spotting bald eagles, kingfishers, and others. Choose from over 133 different campsites and enjoy the fantastic views.
]]>Key Bridge Boathouse in Washington D.C. is one of several boathouses operated by the company Boating in D.C. Key Bridge offers stand-up paddling and kayaking classes and workshops, including paddling and yoga workshops, regular paddling workshops, and a cherry blossom tour. Tours get customers out on the Potomac River and generally paddle through the Georgetown Waterfront, Roosevelt Island, and provide an awesome view of D.C.’s most recognizable monuments.
Take a historic tour through Spa Creek in Annapolis with Capital SUP. Capital SUP is one of the most successful stand up paddleboarding companies in the D.C. area, with locations in Annapolis, Salisbury, Baltimore, and D.C. proper. The folks at Capital SUP considered themselves “ambassadors to the sport of stand-up paddleboarding,” and hope to create a “gym on the water experience.” To those ends, they offer SUP rentals, group lessons, tours, and more in and around the capitol.
Get out on the water with Greg “Suggz” Miller, one of the first Level 3 River SUP Certified Instructors by the American Canoe Association. Greg was on the forefront of the SUP craze and was one of the first to SUP on the Potomac River. Now, he offers lessons, instruction, fitness classes, and youth camps for whitewater SUPing through the Maryland Chute, Virginia Chute, Rocky Island, and Offut Wave, as well as others. Learn from the best in some of the most beautiful areas in the Beltway.
The Tidal Basin is a reservoir, partially man-made, situated between the Potomac River and Washington Channel. The calmer waters provide an excellent space for those just getting started on a paddleboard. Rentals through Boating in D.C. go at $22 per hour and they even offer several classes. The SUP Workshop is a three-hour course, $55 per person. This course teaches paddlers “new turns, fancy footwork, advanced strokes, and improved forward strokes.” This is designed for beginners. If you’re there when the cherry trees blossom, you’re in for a real treat.
The Potomac River is one of the greatest whitewater locations in the world, and depending where you are in the D.C. beltway, you can experience different types of currents. Valley Mill Kayak School, based in Germantown, Maryland, has been teaching watersports in one form or another since 1956. All levels of paddlers are welcome, with lessons for beginners all the way through the most advanced. They only teach the methods of Olympian Eric Jackson in classes that are limited to a 5:1 ratio. Take their SUP learning course to familiarize yourself with the equipment, learn water safety, effective paddling techniques, and more.
]]>The third national park ever authorized in the United States, Rock Creek is 1,754-acres of horseback riding, biking, hiking, concerts, and more. The park is free to enter, although permits are required for film crews, tennis players, scientists working in the planetarium, picnickers, and weddings. In Rock Creek, you’re never too far from the action, but always just far enough to reconnect with nature.
Rock Creek Park has over 32 miles of hiking trails, with two primary routes: The Western Ridge and Valley Trail. Visitors are encouraged to create their own hikes by running along the connecting trails that run along both routes.
Rock Creek is overflowing with incredible history. Make sure to run by the Peirce Mill. Originally built in the 1820s, the mill is a National Historic Place. Plans are in place to eventually return the mill to full operation.
One of Washingtonian magazine’s “100 Best Restaurants in D.C.” since 2012, Ardeo + Bardeo combines modern American food with Asian and Mediterranean flavors. It’s only five minutes outside of Rock Creek Park. Stop by for happy hour, dinner, or brunch service.
Did you know the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is free of charge? And that it’s right next to Rock Creek Park? Do we need to say more? The zoo, founded in 1889, is home to over 1,500 animals and is well worth an excursion.
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At the Rock Creek Park Horse center, you’ll find boarding services, riding lessons, guided trail rides, and even pony rides for the little ones! This is the perfect spot to bring the whole family for a unique and memorable adventure.
If you’re in the mood for a lighter bite to eat or want to snack on something sweet, Pear Plum Café is your place. The menu at Pearl Plum changes frequently, but you can find sweet treats like New York-style cheesecake and pistachio-flavored ice cream! Sounds perfect to us.
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Anacostia National Park is open year-round and offers incredible fishing opportunities. Keep in mind that you need to have a D.C. fishing license before casting your first line. While the fish bite, the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) strictly regulates which fish can be consumed. Many of the fish species here are not safe to eat, so make sure to read up on the most recent catch and release regulations and health warnings before taking anything home.
The Potomac River is known for its fishing, crabbing, and shell fishing. A sport fishing license is required before using this “fishing hole,” and one must keep up with the newest regulations. The striped bass season opens on April 15 and runs through May 15, with the summer and fall season opening May 16 through Dec. 31. Eighteen additional fish species call the Potomac River home, and are legal to fish during the appropriate season. Stop by their website and check the regulations to make sure the fish you’re catching is legal.
The Chesapeake Bay runs across Virginia and Maryland, as well as the greater D.C. area, and is an angler favorite. The rockfish, bluefish, speckled trout, croaker, and flounder make for exciting sport. Make sure to note where exactly you are on the bay, as the regulations differ from state to state and district to district. Colored markers exist throughout the bay to help you in determining your location. Charter boats are available throughout the region to bring you out on the water.
Park along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and cast a line from shore to try your luck at catching bass. Other fish available in the canal include carp, catfish, and the occasional snakehead (but watch out for them—they’re an invasive species). Some anglers use bows and arrows to catch their canal fish. But, of course, a regular line works perfectly fine, too.
Not far outside of the D.C. metro area, Burke Lake in Fairfax Station is a wonderful destination for anglers of all experience levels. Sprawled across more than 200 acres, Burke Lake boasts plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation, with fishing being among the very best. Fishermen and women will find everything from perch to sunfish to catfish.
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Travel 15 minutes outside of D.C. proper and you’ll find yourself a treasure trove of excellent hiking equipment just over the Potomac. Casual Adventure in Arlington, Virginia, sells footwear, backpacks, head lamps, hiking poles, water treatment supplies, food… in other words, just about everything you might need.
This is the spot for all things outdoors. Find shell jackets, insulated jackets, mid layers, base layers, pants, and more, for facing all types of chilly weather on your hike. That, along with high-quality hiking boots, day packs, and other gear, will set you well on your way for your next hiking adventure.
This D.C.-area Cabela’s location opened its doors just last year. This location, situated just under an hour and a half outside of D.C., sprawls across 80,000 square-feet and boasts all of your favorite gear including all kinds of hiking gear, hydration equipment, trekking poles, binoculars, and so much more. This is an outdoorsman’s haven.
Orvis is one of the bigger outlets as far as hiking options go, and as such has one of the widest variety of goods. Hiking equipment includes a wide variety of Merrell shoes, shorts, boots, and shirts, among others.
Dick’s Sporting Goods is always a supreme choice for the best brands and high-quality gear. The D.C. location is in the Dakota Crossing shopping center. Inventory includes trekking poles, Under Armour shoes, Hydro Flasks, Yeti equipment, and much more. If you’re outside of D.C., check out the Springfield, Virginia, location just about 45 minutes outside of D.C. proper or the Wheaton, Maryland, store just under an hour outside of the city.
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You can always count on an army navy surplus store to have top-quality gear. For camping gear, you’ll find canteens, tents, compasses, packs, cookware, knives, bug repellant, and much more. Ranger Surplus will help you have a safe and worry-free camping experience.
Just 20 minutes outside of D.C., Northern Virginia Scout Shop is the official retailer of the Boy Scouts of America. Here, you’ll find everything you’ll need for a safe and successful camping trip including bags and packs, drinkware, cookware, lighting, compasses, binoculars, first aid, and much more!
Arc’Teryx focuses on high-end climbing and camping clothing. Campers should take a look at their jackets, fleeces, pants, gloves, thermos, and packs.
DICK’s Sporting Goods is one of the more popular stores in the U.S. They sell all kinds of sporting and outdoor equipment. Campers may be interested in their camp oven pizza stone, tumblers, canopies, snacks, and more.
If you’re willing to travel just outside of the District proper, then Casual Adventure in Arlington, Virginia, might be perfect for you. They offer a wide variety of camping gear including sleeping bags, sleeping pads, stoves, tents, clothing water treatment, knives, and general gear. Don’t forget to check out their tasty snack options, too!
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About 40 minutes outside of D.C., Bowe’s and Arrows in Woodbridge, Virginia, is a full- service Archery Center with over 30 years of experience. They stock many of the best brands in the sport, including PSE, Parker, and more.
Travel a little further into Virginia to visit Hoffman Archery in Warrenton. Since 1992, Hoffman Archery has served the Warrenton area with the best archery knowledge and equipment. Be sure to keep up with their website to find out about fun 3D archery shoot competitions.
Head 40 minutes into Maryland instead of Virginia and you’ll find yourself at Fred’s Sports Indoor Shooting Range. Fred’s is a master archery shop with a full line of archery products, and a hand gun dealer. They carry sights, quivers, targets, arrows, stabilizers, and more.
Deer Creek Archery in Churchville, Maryland, is a bit further from the center of D.C., but it’s one of the best shops/shooting ranges in the area. They offer league shooting with various specials and events, and sell many of the best bows and equipment. Find products from Mission, Mathews, and more.
Gun Shack/Crosswind, established in 1977, is Mt. Airy, Maryland, sells modern firearms, air rifles, and archery and bow hunting equipment. They carry long bows by Martin (https://www.martinarchery.com/), Hoyt, October Mountain Products, and more. In addition, they stock arrow rests, sights, quivers, and more.
]]>The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal stretches for over 180 miles, spanning from D.C. to Maryland and West Virginia. It is one of the most gorgeous spots near Washington to enjoy the fall foliage. Camping is allowed in designated areas for $40 per night during peak season and $20 during off season, for group campgrounds. Drive-in sites exist along the canal, too.
Drive just over an hour outside of Washington, D.C. to catch the brilliant Virginian leaves changing colors in the Prince William Forest Park. It is the largest protected natural area in the D.C. metro area with over 16,000 acres. Enjoy wildlife viewing, hiking, and camping in your choice of several areas.
Choose from over 170 campgrounds in the Greenbelt Park, just under an hour outside of D.C. proper. The campground is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the fall, when it’s not as crowded and the weather is cooler. Enjoy four different trails and reserved picnic areas inside.
Take the trip down from D.C. to relish the unparalleled beauty of the Shenandoah National Park. The park spans 200,000 acres and offers wildlife, vistas, waterfalls, hiking trails, and much, much more. Shenandoah National Park boasts five unique campgrounds, all available with a reservation.
Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Virginia, is directly across from the Manassas National Battlefield Park, perfect for history lovers. With 41 wooded tent campsites, each including a picnic table, fire ring, table, and access to bathhouses with hot showers, the Bull Run Regional Park is a fantastic option to take in a little history and the changing season.
]]>The Ice Rink at the National Gallery of Art is one of the most gorgeous ice skating rinks in the country. You’ll skate in the Sculpture Garden, “surrounded by large-scale sculptures by contemporary artists,” according to their official description. The rink is open every day of the week.
The Washington Harbour Ice Rink is open from mid-November through March. They offer Learn-To-Skate classes for those that aren’t yet pros, as well as plenty of space for those that prefer to show off their moves. Private rentals, fundraisers, and birthday party packages are available, too.
Skate in the largest rink in Northern Virginia, just outside of D.C., at the Pentagon Row’s 6,840-square-foot ice skating rink. Check their website for info on their skating school, birthday parties, fundraisers, and upcoming events.
Canal Park is one of Washington’s most popular sights by the river. Every winter, the Canal Park Ice Rink opens to the public, open every day of the week. They have Learn-To-Skate sessions, group rates, season passes, and general admission, plus skate rentals.
Fort Dupont Ice Arena is an indoor rink designed to “provide increased opportunity, education, and inspiration to the young people of Washington, D.C. and the surrounding area through ice skating and educational activities.” Since 1996, they have provided kids with fantastic ice skating programs throughout the year.
The MedStar Capitals Iceplex in Arlington, Virginia, is the official practice facility of the National Hockey League’s Washington Capitals. Skate on the same ice that the team practices on. The rink is open year-round.
Yes, that Watergate. Experience the history-defining hotel from its rooftop ice rink. Treat yourself to 360-degree views of the Washington Monument, the Potomac River, the Kennedy Center, and more.
Silver Spring Ice Skating at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring, Maryland, is conveniently located just outside of the capitol but within the Metro area. This outdoor rink has a skate school, birthday parties, fundraising opportunities, and more.
The Herbert Wells Ice Rink in College Park, Maryland, is a seasonal rink open from October through April. The rink is semi-enclosed and includes league locker rooms, a party room available for rental, and a warming hut with a fireplace.
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Take a drive outside of the D.C. area to visit Maryland’s Wheaton Ice Arena. It’s a year-round indoor, NHL-size skating rink with two party rooms, a snack bar, and pro shop with equipment rentals.
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