Montgomery County, Maryland, has some of the most fantastic hiking opportunities near a major metropolitan area. With the beauty that comes with the changing seasons, it’s the perfect time to get outside and take in the scenery. Here is our guide to seven great hikes to see fall foliage near Washington, DC, this fall.
Great Falls, MD: Billy Goat Trail
The Billy Goat Trail is one of the most well-known hikes near Washington, DC, with good reason. Running along the Potomac River, the Billy Goat Trail is split into three sections totaling eight miles, two of which can be accessed off the towpath between Great Falls Tavern Visitors Center and Carderock. We recommend getting to the trailhead early to enjoy this easy hike with occasional mild rock climbing in the morning light. Plan ahead by checking the National Park Service website for any trail closures, renovations, or other important updates.
Insider Tip: Arrive early for a quieter hike and beautiful morning light along the Potomac, and if tackling Section A, a more strenous hike, we reccomend hiking downstream from Great Falls toward Anglers for the best experience.
Seneca Creek Greenway Trail
The Seneca Creek Greenway Trail is a 25-mile trail in the Seneca Creek State Park connecting the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers. Close to home for those living in the metropolitan area, the trail serves as a nearby place for biking, hiking, and picnicking. The trail is paved and intersected by several roads with parking areas. Seneca Creek is an excellent option for those looking for an easy way to spend the day in nature.
Cabin John Regional Park Trails
Cabin John Regional Park offers over four miles of natural surface trails and approximately two miles of paved trails through wooded landscapes. The key trail in the park is the Cabin John Stream Valley Trail, which extends from the park all the way to MacArthur Blvd near the C&O Canal and Potomac River. From Tuckerman Lane, the trail extends north to Goya Drive. Unless noted otherwise on the map, trails marked “Natural Surface” and “Hard Surface” are “Shared by All” trails, which include hikers, bikers, and equestrians.
Insider Tip: Bring binoculars and keep an ear out for wildlife near Locust Grove Nature Center, where you may spot bluebirds, wrens, woodpeckers, beavers, and other woodland creatures.
Sligo Creek Park
Sligo Creek is a free-flowing tributary of the Anacostia River in Maryland. Surrounded by woods and filled with trails, Sligo Creek Park is an excellent escape for anyone looking to get out of the city to breathe in the fresh air and take in the beauty of the changing foliage. The trails provide plenty of exploration for anyone looking for an adventure, and hikers often report seeing various birds and other wildlife.
Insider Tip: Download the Merlin Bird ID app before your hike and use its Sound ID feature to listen for and identify birds along the trail, it’s a fun way to turn your fall walk into a mini birding adventure.
Black Hill Regional Park
With more than 2,000 acres to explore, Black Hill Regional Park is the perfect location for a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. The park surrounds Little Seneca Lake and is heavily wooded with both paved and unpaved trails. Take in the fall-colored foliage with gorgeous lakeside views just a short drive from the metroplex.
Insider Tip: Pause along Little Seneca Lake and keep your eyes open for great blue herons, beavers, and other wildlife along the shoreline, adding to the peaceful escape into nature.
Brookside Gardens
A nature lover’s dream, Brookside Gardens is Montgomery County’s award-winning public display garden, located in Wheaton Regional Park. The 50-acre garden features a colorful butterfly garden, aquatic garden, children’s garden, two conservatories, and more for year-round enjoyment, all set within a peaceful natural landscape. Two conservatories offer an immersive escape into lush plant collections, while seasonal blooms and changing landscapes provide something different to see throughout the year. Trails are paved, making this an easy hike for those looking for a more leisurely walk.
Rock Creek Regional Park
One of the best spots for hiking in Montgomery County happens to be right in the middle of the metropolitan area. Rock Creek Park is a 2,000-acre piece of land set aside by Congress in 1890 to preserve the natural landscape. There are many trails to choose from in Rock Creek Park, but some of the more notable ones include Fort Circle Park, Pierce Mill, and Dumbarton Oaks.
Insider Tip: The 18.6-mile Rock Creek Hiker/Biker Trail stretches from the DC line to Rock Creek Regional Park, giving you plenty of options to explore.
