City Kids Top 5 Hikes in the DMV
Did you know that Washington, DC, was rated the best big-city park system in the country for the third consecutive year by the Trust for Public Land? At City Kids, we believe that all DC residents should have equitable access to nature and feel welcome in outdoor spaces. Our programs, starting in 6th grade, give youth the opportunity to explore the outdoors and feel more connected to nature by going on trips around the DMV during the school year and in Wyoming each summer.
If you are new to the DMV or are looking to get outside more this year, check out the Top Five CK Hikes voted on by the City Kids team.
First Place – Billy Goat Trail
Photo Credit: Sam Gallant
The Billy Goat Trail is arguably the most popular trail among DC locals, and the most talked about in Great Falls Park.
Distance from DC: 30 minutes
Why it’s our favorite: “Easy to get from DC, and three options mean any experience level is welcome!” – Caroline, Deputy Director
Second Place – Hawksbill Summit Loop
Photo Credit: Victor Medina
The Hawksbill Summit is a fairly easy, 2.9-mile trail that takes you to the highest peak of Shenandoah National Park at 4,049 feet.
Distance from DC: 2 hours, 7 minutes
Why it’s our favorite: “Beautiful all-around hike! With a super rewarding summit view!!” – Larkin, CK Intern
Third Place – White Oak Canyon
Photo Credit: Victor Medina
White Oak Canyon is one of Shenandoah’s most popular waterfall hikes. The trail begins directly across Skyline Drive from Skyland Resort.
Distance from DC: 2 hours, 17 minutes
Why it’s our favorite: “Good vibes!” – Arii, Elite and Leadership Program Manager
Fourth Place – Western Ridge Trail
Western Ridge Trail is one of the more popular trails through Rock Creek Park. Offering just under 5 miles of trail, this route will take you up and down the ridges offering views of the river and surrounding area.
Distance from DC: It’s in DC!
Why it’s our favorite: “Western Ridge Trail and the other Rock Creek Park trails are easy to get to any day of the week.” – Dan, Director of Development and Communications
Fifth Place – Raven Rock
Photo Credit: Ginny Brooks
If you are looking for a longer trip, Raven Rocks winds along a delightfully rocky rooty section of the Appalachian Trail, a gentle roller coaster amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Distance from DC: 1 hour
Why it’s our favorite: “Raven Rocks is known for its view and can be shortened or extended to meet your needs— turn around after cresting one of the many hills or trek past the lookout further north on the AT. However you hike Raven Rocks, it never fails to ground, center, and energize.” – Ginny, JET Program Manager
Are you going out to Shenandoah or another National Park this year? Consider taking part in the Get Outside for City Kids Fundraising Program to raise money and awareness for our programs.
