Hiking has become one of my favorite past times over the past few years as Covid has made it challenging to find safe and enjoyable activities. Hiking keeps me at peace and allows time for self reflection as well as self discovery. It provides a great workout while simultaneously challenging your body and mind. I have climbed to altitudes that I never imagined I could ever reach! I prefer hikes with a good view at the top. It gives something to look forward to and that is the reward for all of my hard work. The trails with the best views are usually further away from the city and closer to the mountains. I usually drive about one and a half hours to most trailheads. If I chose a hike that is over 2 hours from DC I get a hotel and make it an overnight trip. Remember to always be cautious and aware of the surrounding area especially when taking photos.
1. McAfee Knob (Via Appalachian Trail) Virginia
- Difficulty level: Moderate/ Difficult
- Length: 7.8 Miles (Out and Back)
- Elevation Gain: 1,811 ft
- Hiking Time: 4-6 Hours (Can be shorter for experienced hikers)
- Distance to Washington DC: 240 miles | 3.5 hour drive
- Terrain: Rocky, Wooded
- Views: Mountains, forest, valley
I have hiked a lot along the Appalachian Trail. McAfee Knob is one of my favorite viewpoints! The knob is located at the top of Catawba Mountain with an elevation of 3,197 ft. providing breathtaking panoramic views. It is said to be one of the most photographed places on the entire Appalachian Trail. The terrain changes throughout the hike. It is mostly wooded sometimes changing from rocky to flat. The are steep inclines along the way, but nothing unbearable. Although moderately difficult, the trail is suitable for people with average fitness levels. Once we reached the top we were in awe! The high altitude allows for views that cover miles of valleys, trees and mountains. We sat at the top for about an hour while taking it all in and enjoying our lunch. Avoid trying to get a “good selfie”. There usually people helping each other take photos. Don’t get too close to the edge. A good photo is not worth your life!
The distance to McAfee Knob is a 3.5 hour ride from DC, so I recommend staying overnight and adding other activities to the itinerary such as a visit to the Caverns and Wineries. I promise it is worth the trip! Hotels near Roanoke VA are very affordable! For more info, directions, maps etc… visit https://www.visitroanokeva.com/things-to-do/outdoor-adventure/appalachian-trail/mcafee-knob/
2. Great Falls State Park, Virginia
Great Falls State Park has many options for all visitors. There are fifteen miles of hiking trails, some of which are used for biking and horseback riding. The park is family friendly with trails of all difficulty levels ranging from easy to strenuous. Some trails offer spectacular views of the waterfalls and gorge. Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. There are picnic tables for eating which are available on a first come first served basis. The Visitor Center is open daily from 10:00 am-4:00 pm. They offer trail maps, park history and information, and concession stands to purchase snacks and drinks (open March-November). Great Falls is a State Park and therefore heavily trafficked. There is a $20 fee per vehicle, or $10 fee per person on foot/bicycle.
3. Sugarloaf Mountain- Dickerson, MD
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Length: 7.4 Miles (loop)
- Elevation Gain: 1,265 ft
- Park Hours: 8 am-6 pm
- Hiking Time: 4 Hours (Can be shorter for experienced hikers)
- Distance to Washington DC: 40 miles | 1 hour drive
- Terrain: Rocky, Wooded
- Views: Mountains, forest, valley
Sugarloaf Mountain is about an hour drive from DC located near Clarksburg, MD. The mountain is considered private property of the Stronghold Inc. The park is not operated by the state. There is no fee to hike the trails but there is a $5 donation request. The trail is mostly wooded and has quite a few steep inclines. I like hiking this trail because it is not too far from DC and the views are spectacular. The mountains and valleys below are easily visible from the high elevation. The hike is moderate/difficult but average fitness level is enough to get through it. We had a few first timers the last time I visited and everyone made it through even though it was a bit challenging. My favorite part is going to the Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard at the end of the hike. The vineyard does not require reservations so walk ins are welcomed. They offer $20 wine flights sampling 4 different types of wine. Tours are also available.
4. Black Rock (via Appalachian Trail) Myersville, MD
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Length: 7.2 Miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 839 ft
- Hiking Time: 4 Hours (Can be shorter for experienced hikers)
- Distance to Washington DC: 59 miles | 1 hr 15 min hour drive
- Terrain: Rocky, Wooded
- Views: Mountains, forest, valley
Black Rock is another great trail that is not too far outside of the DMV. The walk is pretty steady with a few inclines. The elevation gain is only about 800 ft. so it is not too strenuous. We had kids and dogs on this hike and everyone had a blast. We packed lunches and ate at the summit while admiring the stunning view. The viewpoint is very rocky so I suggest being extremely careful and moving very slowly at the top. There are spaces in between the rocks and it can be easy to trip if not paying attention. I was nervous about Freckles being at the top but dogs are smart! He knew not to move too fast or get too close to the edge.
5. Scott’s Run Preserve McLean, VA
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Length: 1.4 Miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 134 ft
- Hiking Time: 1 Hour (Can be shorter for experienced hikers)
- Distance to Washington DC: 13 miles | 20 minute drive
- Terrain: Rocky, Wooded, creek
- Views: Woods, waterfall, river
The Potomac Heritage Trail is a short and easy hike with very little change in elevation. This is a great hike for kids and pets. It is also ideal for beginner hikers who have never trekked through the woods. The views of nature along the walk are beautiful and calming making for a peaceful journey to the waterfall. Although this hike is not too challenging, there are a few small inclines along the way. I brought Freckles on this hike and he loved splashing thorough the river when we reached the waterfall. There were several other dogs as well as kids splashing around in the water. This is perfect for people looking to hike for a short time without the challenge of hills and rocks. I suggest carpooling and arriving early in morning. The parking lots get full very quickly and there aren’t many spaces (compared to the amount of visitors).
