8 Winter Hikes near Washington, DC
This city has so much beautiful green space year-round. Even though many of the trees lose their leaves in the winter, winter hikes near Washington, DC are a great way to get outside and stay moving. Whether it’s a park directly in the city or a short drive away, there is a hike for everyone!
Winter Hikes in Washington, DC
Rock Creek Park: Rock Creek Park is beautiful in any season, but I particularly enjoy it in the winter. It is usually extra quiet among the bare trees and sometimes snow-covered paths, so you can clearly hear the running water on some of the trails. Bundle up and bring a thermos with a hot drink or soup.
Theodore Roosevelt Park: This park has three main trails under 1.5 miles and a memorial to Theodore Roosevelt. It is very busy in nice weather, so visiting during winter can be a great opportunity to see the park with smaller crowds. There is limited parking, and Capital Bikeshare is nearby.
The National Arboretum: The National Arboretum offers so many different kinds of plant life, so it is beautiful year-round. With trails through many different gardens, this is a great place for a peaceful walk, a day with the kids, or a dog walk. You can also find picnic tables by the Grove of State Trees. Bring a warm picnic from home or stop at the nearby Roaming Rooster for chicken sandwiches.
Metropolitan Branch Trail: The Metropolitan Branch Trail provides a great urban hiking or biking experience, even in winter. The trail is sometimes referred to as the Metropolitan Beer Trail because you can stop at many breweries along the way, including Metrobar, Lost Generation Brewing, City State Brewing, and Dew Drop Inn. This makes it easy to take a break from the cold. Just be careful on the trail if there is ice or snow!
Anacostia River Walk: This paved loop around the Anacostia River is great for walking, biking, and dog walks. The park loops through Navy Yard, so you can stop for a drink or lunch. It also passes the Congressional Cemetery and Kingman Island.
Malcolm X Park: Malcolm X Park (Meridian Hill) sits between Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, and the 14th and U Street corridor. Climb the steps of the cascading fountain or stroll the loop at the top of the park. When it snows, people often gather here for sledding and making tiny snowmen along the barrier of the fountain. Grab a warm drink or a snack from Little Hat Coffee, La Colombe, or Tatte on 14th Street to drink during your stroll. You can also go to Harris Teeter near 17th Street and Kalorama Road for bakery items and other snacks for a winter picnic.
Note that the cascading fountain has not been running for a few years. The National Park Service hopes to be granted funds for a fix in 2027.
Winter Hikes Near Washington, DC
Great Falls National Park: Similar to Rock Creek Park, many of the trees are bare during winter, but I love this park for winter walks. The park still feels alive and active with the sounds of the falls. This park is usually more active in winter than others since you can enjoy the fall in any season. Snowfall, ice, and the temperature can often impact the intensity of the falls, so it’s always a different experience than coming in the warmer weather. There are a variety of trails in this park for all levels of hiking, including a few stroller-accessible areas. Two of the overlooks for the falls are fully accessible.
Great Falls National Park is $20 per car or included with the American the Beautiful Pass. This park has entry points in Maryland and Virginia on both sides of the Potomac River.
Sky Meadows State Park: Head to Sky Meadows State Park in Deplane, Virginia, for more challenging hikes than what you’ll find in the city. They offer a variety of easy, medium, and difficult hikes, so there is something for everyone. This park is an official Dark Sky Park and hosts a year-round monthly stargazing event. Upcoming 2025 dates include January 25, February 22, and March 29. Bundle up for an evening under the stars!