Staff picks: 7 local trails to explore throughout the Potomac River region this spring
/From short and sweet strolls to challenging hikes, we’ve got you covered!
bay view trail at mason neck state park. photo by virginia state parks via flickr (CC BY 2.0)
Tell winter to take a hike—and while you’re at it, why don’t you go on one, too?
Our staff has curated a list of our favorite local hikes in the Potomac River region. So take advantage of the warmer weather and get outside on one of the many amazing trails near the river!
Spending time outdoors has countless benefits for your physical and mental well-being. Did you know that just looking at a picture of a tree can give you a small mental boost? Just imagine what walking through a forested path can do!
Whether you’re looking for a nice simple stroll in the outdoors or for something a bit more challenging, these hikes will be sure to please any outdoor adventurer. Peruse the selection below or download our pdf guide for an expanded list of our favorite trails.
Happy hiking!
A nice stroll: 1-3 mile trails
1. Little Bennett Creek (Hyattstown MD)
little bennett regional park. photo by john brighenti via flickr (CC BY 2.0)
This short and easy loop runs adjacent to Little Bennett Creek, and its woodland atmosphere makes it the perfect place to get outside for a bit. Enjoy the fresh air and cool shade from the trees. At 2.7 miles, this trail is also ideal for a nice run or bike ride. If you finish this hike and find yourself wanting more, continue exploring the rest of the Little Bennett Regional Park, made up of 3,700 acres of woodland.
2. Clopper Lake Trail (Gaithersburg, MD)
clopper lake. photo by theturducken via flickr (CC BY 2.0)
If you love lakes, check out this trail around Clopper Lake in Gaithersburg! Part of Seneca Creek State Park, this lake trail is just over 3.5 miles and has little elevation gain, making it a relatively easy hike. The path hugs close to the lake, making sure you get all the best views! With the water nearby, this trail is also a popular spot for birdwatchers. Keep your eye out for any waterfowl as well as turtles!
3. Klingle Valley Trail (Northwest DC)
klingle valley trail. photo by joe flood via flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Looking for a quick escape from city life? Head over to Klingle Valley Trail for a quick out-and-back, 30-minute stroll (albeit on an incline). Its fully paved path makes it easy to walk, run, or bike. If you live or work nearby in NW DC, its short length and accessibility via Metro (Cleveland Park or Woodley Park) makes it a great option to get outside and enjoy nature in the middle of the work day.
4. Turkey Run Trail (West McLean, VA)
turkey run park near the potomac river. photo by fritz flohr reynolds via flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)
If you want a good view of the Potomac River and a moderately challenging trail, check out the Turkey Run Trail near West McLean, Virginia. While it’s just about 3 miles long, the sometimes uneven terrain and elevation gain makes this hike a bit more difficult. Be prepared to cross some shallow streams! It’s definitely worth it, though—about half of the loop borders the upper Potomac River, and the other half weaves through scenic wooded area.
A good adventure: 4-7 mile trails
5. Mason Neck (Norton, VA)
mason neck state park. photo by virginia state parks via flickr (CC BY 2.0)
This 5.3 mile loop is considered moderately challenging, with an average time of completion at just over one and a half hours. Popular among birdwatchers and mountain bikers, the trail winds through forested land, providing plenty of shade for those warmer days. Part of the loop takes you right along the Belmont Bay, so you can enjoy the lovely water views and look out for wildlife.
6. Brooks Hill Loop and Thomas Farm Loop (Monocacy Battlefield, Frederick, MD)
monocacy battlefield. photo by mr. tin md via flickr (CC BY-ND 2.0)
If you’re looking for a trail that’s a bit longer, try out Brook Hills Loop and Thomas Farm Loop at Monocacy Battlefield in Frederick. At nearly 8 miles long, this trail encompasses two loops, so you’re always welcome to just do one half if you’re short on time. If you want to walk the whole thing, expect to spend a few hours on the trail! The loop covers part of the battlefield where the Battle of Monocacy took place during the Civil War, so you can experience a bit of history during your hike too!
An all-day outing: 7+ miles
7. Signal Knob (Fort Valley, VA)
signal knob. photo by bill couch via flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Want an even bigger challenge? Then this 10-mile loop is for you! With an elevation gain of 2,217 feet, you’ll be rising to see some excellent views on the overlooks throughout the trail. It takes about 5 hours to complete and has plenty of uphill trekking, so make sure you pack enough water and some snacks to get you through safely.
We hope you like our staff’s picks! 🌞 Hike safe, hike happy, and don’t forget to Leave No Trace! 🥾
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