Discover blossoms, views, and wild trails in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Spring in the DMV is nothing short of magical. Cherry blossoms dance in the breeze, temperatures hover in the sweet spot between chilly and sweaty, and trails come alive with wildflowers, birdsong, and fresh green canopies. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a weekend stroll with a view, this guide to the best spring hikes and outdoor adventures around the D.C. metro area has you covered.

See Some Scenic Views at Great Falls Park

Where? 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA

With waterfall views and dramatic cliffs, few spots are more iconic than Great Falls Park, where the Potomac River crashes over rocky outcrops just minutes from D.C. Choose the Billy Goat Trail (Section A) on the Maryland side for a more challenging scramble, or stick to the scenic overlooks in Virginia for breathtaking photo ops.

Highlighted Trails: Billy Goat Trail (Section A) and scenic overlooks in Virginia.

• Billy Goat Trail (Section A): Located within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, this trail is a bucket-list adventure for local hikers. It’s roughly 1.75 miles of rugged terrain, including rock scrambles, steep drops, and sweeping views of the Potomac River. Be prepared for a workout – and to use both hands in sections! It’s best tackled in dry weather and not recommended for young kids or anyone with mobility issues.

• Scenic Overlooks in Virginia: If you’re looking for less intense terrain but still want those iconic views, head to the Virginia side of Great Falls Park. A short, paved walk from the Visitor Center leads to three dramatic overlooks showcasing the falls in all their power. Bring your camera – sunrise and golden hour lighting here is next-level.

Forest Bathe in the City at Rock Creek Park

Where? Rock Creek Park, Washington, D.C.

You don’t have to leave D.C. to get lost in nature. If you want to experience forest bathing without leaving the city, Rock Creek Park offers over 32 miles of trails winding through wooded ravines, quiet meadows, and historic bridges. Springtime means colorful wildflowers and the peaceful gurgle of Rock Creek at its fullest.

Highlighted Trails: Western Ridge Trail and the Valley Trail.

• Western Ridge Trail: This gently rolling trail offers a scenic forest walk through the heart of Rock Creek Park. Starting near the Nature Center, the Western Ridge Trail meanders south past Civil War-era forts, blooming dogwoods, and fern-covered hillsides. It’s ideal for trail runners, birders, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape without straying far from city life.

• The Valley Trail: Running roughly parallel to Western Ridge, the Valley Trail hugs Rock Creek itself. Expect creek crossings, stone ruins, and shaded stretches perfect for a hot day. For a satisfying loop, combine it with the Western Ridge Trail using one of the park’s connector paths – about five miles total, depending on your route.

Spring into the Season at Shenandoah National Park

Where? Shenandoah National Park, Jollett, VA

Spring is prime time in Shenandoah, where Skyline Drive rolls through blooming dogwoods, and hikes like Stony Man or Dark Hollow Falls offer unforgettable views and misty waterfalls.

Highlighted Trails: Stony Man Trail and Dark Hollow Falls.

• Stony Man Trail: Located near the Skyland Resort area, this 1.6-mile loop is one of the easiest summit hikes in Shenandoah – and one of the most rewarding. With an elevation of just over 4,000 feet, the summit offers sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain. Along the way, you’ll find spring ephemerals like trillium, bloodroot, and violets popping up among the mossy forest floor. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly (on a leash), and perfect for catching the sunset.

• Dark Hollow Falls: Short and sweet, this 1.4-mile out-and-back trail is one of the park’s most popular waterfall hikes – and for good reason. It follows a steep path along Hogcamp Branch to a 70-foot cascade that tumbles over dark rock into a fern-lined pool. The hike down is easy, but the return climb is a cardio blast. Spring brings heavy flow to the falls, making it an ideal time to visit.

Seek Out Secluded Forest Trails at Catoctin Mountain Park

Where? 6602 Foxville Rd, Thurmont, MD

Just north of Frederick, Catoctin Mountain Park is a hidden gem for spring hikers looking for secluded forest trails and historic sites. The Chimney Rock trail delivers rewarding views, while lower elevation trails showcase new blooms and cascading creeks.

Highlighted Trails: The Orange Blazed Trail and Blue Blazes Whiskey Still Exhibit.

• The Orange Blazed Trail: This moderately challenging 3.5-mile round-trip hike climbs through hardwood forests to a rocky outcrop with sweeping views of the Monocacy Valley. Spring wildflowers bloom along the trail, and the rock formations at the top – Chimney Rock and Wolf Rock – make for a great picnic or photo break. Watch your footing near the top, as the rocks can get slick after spring rains.

• Blue Blazes Whiskey Still Exhibit: For a unique mix of nature and history, try this 0.6-mile trail that winds through the forest to the site of a Prohibition-era whiskey still. Interpretive signs tell the story of the area’s moonshining past, while the trail itself is an easy, shady stroll past mossy logs, young maples, and trickling streams.

Try a Quick Nature Escape at Theodore Roosevelt Island

Where? Theodore Roosevelt Island, Washington, D.C.

This small island in the Potomac River is a pocket of wilderness in the heart of the city. Boardwalks lead through marshland, while woodland trails loop around the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial. It’s stroller-friendly, bird-watcher approved, and perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

Highlighted Trails: The Upland Trail and the Swamp Trail.

• The Upland Trail: The Upland Trail is a 0.75-mile walking trail, winding through the forest and looping around the Mason mansion. The Mason mansion is now just a set of ruins, but it adds a layer of history to this short but scenic trail.

• The Swamp Trail: A peaceful, part boardwalk, part pea gravel, 1.5-mile trail cuts through cattail marshes and wetlands, offering prime bird-watching opportunities and a close look at the island’s unique ecology. In spring, red-winged blackbirds call out from the reeds, turtles bask on logs, and delicate blooms brighten the path.

Catch Views From the Cliffs at Sugarloaf Mountain

Where? Sugarloaf Mountain, Dickerson, MD

Just an hour’s drive from D.C., Sugarloaf Mountain is a local favorite for good reason. This standalone mountain near Frederick offers short, rewarding hikes with sweeping views of the surrounding farmland and foothills. The Blue Trail Loop includes a bit of elevation, but it’s family-friendly and dog-approved.

Highlighted Trails: Blue Trail Loop and summit lookouts.

• Blue Trail Loop: This moderate 5.5-mile loop is perfect for hikers looking to break a sweat without an all-day commitment. It winds through a mix of forested paths and rocky outcrops, eventually connecting to the summit area. Along the way, you’ll pass spring wildflowers, mossy boulders, and quiet glades. There are a few steep sections, but they’re well worth it for the panoramic views that await.

• Summit Lookouts: The summit of Sugarloaf Mountain features several stone lookout points with wide-open vistas of the Maryland countryside. These make excellent picnic spots, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Blue Ridge Mountains. The main lookout is accessible from a short uphill walk from the East View parking lot – ideal for a quicker trip with a big payoff.

Bird Watch on the Boardwalk at Huntley Meadows Park

Where? 3701 Lockheed Blvd, Alexandria, VA

Spring brings the marshes of Huntley Meadows to life with frogs, red-winged blackbirds, and a dazzling array of blooming plants. This easy boardwalk stroll is perfect for families, photographers, and anyone craving a serene walk in nature.

Highlighted Trails: Wetlands Boardwalk Trail and Forest Loop Trail.

• Wetlands Boardwalk Trail: The star attraction at Huntley Meadows, this flat, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly boardwalk winds through vibrant marshes, open water, and forest edges. In spring, expect to see (and hear!) red-winged blackbirds, herons, frogs, and maybe even a turtle or two sunning on logs. The boardwalk includes observation towers and quiet platforms for wildlife watching or simply soaking in the stillness.

• Forest Loop Trail: For a longer meander, connect to the Forest Loop Trail. This gentle dirt path guides you through shady woodlands, offering a peaceful contrast to the open wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for woodpeckers, owls, and wildflowers tucked beneath towering oaks and tulip poplars. The full loop, including the boardwalk, is about two miles and is great for all skill levels.

Check Out These Cherry Blossom Adventures

Where? Various locations.

If you’re after iconic springtime cherry blossom scenery, don’t miss paddle boating at Tidal Basin in D.C. to watch from the water, or stop by the quiet but scenic Kenwood Neighborhood in Bethesda, MD.

Highlighted Trails: The Tidal Basin Paddle Boats (D.C.) and the Kenwood Park Neighborhood (Bethesda, MD).

• The Tidal Basin Paddle Boats (D.C.): For one of the most memorable ways to view the cherry blossoms, rent a paddle boat at the Tidal Basin. Floating beneath the bloom-laden branches gives you a peaceful, panoramic perspective of Washington’s most famous spring spectacle. You’ll pass monuments like the Jefferson Memorial and MLK Jr. Memorial, all framed by pink petals reflecting off the water. Reservations are recommended during peak bloom!

• The Kenwood Park Neighborhood (Bethesda, MD): This quiet residential neighborhood transforms into a pink wonderland every spring. Lined with more than 1,200 cherry trees, Kenwood offers a less crowded, more relaxed alternative to the Tidal Basin. Stroll or bike through the wide, leafy streets between Dorset Avenue and Kennedy Drive for a serene bloom-spotting experience. Be mindful – this is a neighborhood, so go during daylight hours and be respectful of residents.

Wander the Wildflower Trails at Turkey Run Park

Where? Turkey Run Loop Rd, McLean, VA

A hidden gem just off the GW Parkway, Turkey Run offers a peaceful escape from the city without the crowds. In the spring, the trails are lined with blooming bluebells, bloodroot, and trillium. The Potomac Heritage Trail runs along the river, offering tranquil woodland vibes and glimpses of wildlife.

Highlighted Trails: Potomac Heritage Trail and Turkey Run Loop Trail.

• Potomac Heritage Trail: This trail hugs the banks of the Potomac River and offers a rustic, close-to-nature experience that feels miles away from D.C. despite being just a short drive. In spring, the forest floor explodes with Virginia bluebells and other ephemeral blooms, while birds flit between the budding trees. Expect narrow, occasionally muddy paths, scenic bluffs, and the soothing sounds of the river. It’s moderately challenging and great for nature lovers who don’t mind a bit of rough terrain.

• Turkey Run Loop Trail: A great option for a quiet spring hike, this loop combines sections of the Potomac Heritage Trail with forested inland trails that wind through ravines and across wooden bridges. You’ll pass rocky outcrops, trickling streams, and dense stands of tulip poplars and oaks. It’s a peaceful and often under-the-radar spot for hikers and wildflower enthusiasts.

Hike Through Scenic Ridges at Gambrill State Park

Where? 8602 Gambrill Park Rd, Frederick, MD

Tucked into the Catoctin Mountains just west of Frederick, Gambrill State Park is a springtime haven with ridge-top trails, vibrant wildflowers, and panoramic views of the valleys below. It’s perfect for a quiet day outdoors without driving too far.

Highlighted Trails: White Oak Trail and High Knob Scenic Overlook.

• White Oak Trail: This easy one-mile loop winds through dense forest and across small seasonal streams. In spring, the understory comes alive with dogwoods, violets, and ferns. The trail features rolling terrain with a few rocky patches, making it a good choice for a relaxed hike with some variety.

• High Knob Scenic Overlook: You don’t have to work hard for the reward here – drive or hike up to High Knob, where a stone overlook offers sweeping views of Frederick and the surrounding countryside. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon, with soft spring sunlight bathing the valley. A great spot for a picnic or a peaceful pause.

Conclusion: Chase These Waterfalls and Scenic Views

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, climbing peaks, or strolling through marshes, the DMV is brimming with springtime escapes. From powerful waterfalls and secluded forest trails to peaceful island escapes and mountaintop views, the D.C. area is packed with springtime hiking gems. Whether you’ve got an afternoon or an entire weekend, these trails deliver that fresh-air reset we all crave. So lace up your boots, grab your water bottle, and get out there – adventure is waiting just beyond the Beltway.