Open Travel Guide
Hiking in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. Hiking & Trekking Guide 2026

Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Washington, D.C..

By Updated

This guide covers 6+ hiking trails in Washington, D.C. — Rock Creek Park Nature Trail, C&O Canal Towpath (Georgetown Section) and National Mall Walking Route top the list. Every recommendation carries its practical details: typical costs, the best time to visit, and what to know before you commit.

Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States, a planned federal district occupying 68 square miles on the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. Home to the three branches of the U.S. federal government, world-class Smithsonian museums, iconic monuments, and a vibrant multicultural dining and arts scene, the city draws more than 24 million visitors annually. Most of the capital's major museums and memorials are free, making it one of the most accessible great cities on earth.

Top trails

Routes worth lacing up your boots for.

  1. 1

    Rock Creek Park Nature Trail

    2.1 miles (3.4 km) loop1–1.5 hours130 ft (40 m) gain

  2. 2

    C&O Canal Towpath (Georgetown Section)

    Up to 184.5 miles total; Georgetown to Great Falls: 14.3 miles (one-way); most visitors walk 2–5 miles1 hour (2-mile section) to full-day (to Great Falls and back 28-mile round trip)Nearly flat (towpath follows canal)

  3. 3

    National Mall Walking Route

    2 miles (3.2 km) one-way, Lincoln Memorial to U.S. Capitol1–2 hours walking; 3–5 hours with monument stopsNearly flat

  4. 4

    Rock Creek Park Western Ridge Trail

    7.5 miles (12 km) loop3–4 hours450 ft (137 m) cumulative gain

  5. 5

    Theodore Roosevelt Island Trail

    2.5 miles (4 km) of trails on the island1–1.5 hoursFlat to gentle rises

  6. 6

    Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Boardwalk

    1.5 miles (2.4 km) of boardwalk and trails1 hourFlat

Trail difficulty levels

Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.

Easy

Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.

Moderate

Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.

Hard

Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.

Expert

Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.

Local hazards

What to watch out for on the trail.

High

Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.

Medium

Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.

Medium

Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.

Related topics