Are you a nature lover in search of a fast escape from busy Washington D.C.? You then’ll be comfortable to study the nation’s capital is carefully surrounded by beautiful peaceable mountain landscapes and seaside adventures.
From climbing alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains within the Shenandoah Nationwide Park to kayaking within the Chesapeake Bay, there’s one thing for everybody.
If you happen to’re in search of one thing nearer to town, at Nice Falls Park you may hike alongside the Potomac River whereas discovering beautiful waterfalls. And it’s underneath a 30 minute drive from town.
For an oceanside seaside day, head to Assateague Island Nationwide Seashore on Maryland’s Japanese Shore, the place you may swim, sunbathe, and even spot wild horses.
It doesn’t matter what you’re in search of, Washington D.C. has loads of shut by locations for nature lovers in underneath a 3 hour drive.
Key Factors You’ll Uncover
- Shenandoah Nationwide Park and Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park are common day journey locations with heaps to do for nature lovers close to Washington D.C.
- Nice Falls Park is nice choices for these in search of out of doors adventures nearer to town.
- For seaside lovers, Assateague Island Nationwide Seashore on Maryland’s Japanese Shore has trails, seashores, guided adventures, tenting and wild horses.
- With so many beautiful pure landscapes only a brief drive away, Washington D.C. is the right vacation spot for nature lovers.
1. Shenandoah Nationwide Park
One of the vital common day journeys from Washington D.C. for nature lovers is the beautiful Shenandoah Nationwide Park.
Positioned simply 75 miles and about 2 hours away from town, this beautiful park is dwelling to over 500 miles of climbing trails, together with the well-known Appalachian Path, beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a wide range of out of doors actions..
You’ll have the chance to see breathtaking waterfalls, sweeping vistas, and an abundance of wildlife all through.
Listed below are among the issues you are able to do in Shenandoah Nationwide Park:
Skyline Drive
The Skyline Drive is a scenic drive that runs the size of the park. It’s a good way to soak up the gorgeous views of the mountains and valleys.
Alongside the way in which, there are a number of overlooks the place you may cease and take photos or have a picnic.
Preserve an eye fixed out for wildlife, together with black bears, deer, and wild turkeys.
Previous Rag Mountain
For a more difficult out of doors journey, think about climbing Previous Rag Mountain. This 9-mile hike is taken into account probably the greatest on the East Coast, with beautiful views from the summit.
The hike contains rock scrambles and steep climbs, so it’s not for the faint of coronary heart. Ensure to convey loads of water and snacks, and put on sturdy climbing footwear.
Darkish Hole Falls
For a shorter hike, Darkish Hole Falls is wonderful. This 1.4-mile hike takes you to a wonderful waterfall, with a number of smaller falls alongside the way in which. The path is well-maintained and comparatively straightforward, however there are some steep sections.
Ensure to put on snug footwear and convey a digital camera to seize the beautiful surroundings.
General, Shenandoah Nationwide Park is a good day journey choice for nature lovers. With beautiful views, difficult hikes, and straightforward trails, there’s one thing right here for everybody.
Entrance passes are and may be bought on-line or on the park.
2. Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park
If you happen to’re a nature lover, you’ll discover loads to discover at Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park. Positioned on the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, this park is a well-liked vacation spot for climbing, exploring historical past, and having fun with river actions.
A couple of 90 minute drive from downtown D.C., right here, you may hike the Appalachian Path, go whitewater rafting, or discover Harpers Ferry, the historic city that performed a vital function within the Civil Warfare.
Listed below are among the issues you are able to do in Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park:
Climbing the Appalachian Path
One of the vital common actions at Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park is climbing the Appalachian Path. The path runs via the park and presents beautiful views of the encircling mountains and rivers.
You possibly can select from a wide range of hikes, starting from straightforward to strenuous. The park presents a number of types of trails which can be good for households with younger youngsters, in addition to longer hikes for skilled hikers.
Exploring Civil Warfare Historical past
Harpers Ferry performed a big function within the Civil Warfare, and you may discover its historical past on the park. The city was the location of a well-known raid by abolitionist John Brown in 1859, and it modified fingers between Union and Accomplice forces a number of instances throughout the struggle.
You possibly can go to a number of historic websites within the park, together with the John Brown Museum and the ruins of the city’s armory.
River Actions
If you happen to love water actions, Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park has loads to supply. You possibly can go tubing, kayaking, or rafting on the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers.
The park has a number of outfitters that provide leases and guided excursions, so you may benefit from the rivers even for those who don’t have your personal gear. You may as well go fishing within the rivers, that are dwelling to a wide range of fish species.
General, Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park is a good vacation spot for nature lovers who need to discover historical past, hike via stunning surroundings, and luxuriate in river actions. You should buy entrance passes on-line or on the customer middle entrance station.
3. Nice Falls Park
If you happen to’re a nature lover in search of a day journey from Washington D.C, Nice Falls Park is a must-visit vacation spot. Positioned simply 15 miles from town and 800 acres (3.2 km2), this park presents beautiful views of the Potomac River and its waterfalls.
Listed below are among the issues you are able to do in Nice Falls Park:
The Potomac River and Waterfall Views
The park’s primary attraction is the Shenandoah Nationwide Park Wildlife, which presents breathtaking views of the waterfalls and rapids. You possibly can take a leisurely stroll alongside the paths or hike to the highest of the cliffs for a panoramic view of the river. You should definitely convey your digital camera to seize the beautiful surroundings.
For motion on the river, strive kayaking or whitewater rafting.
Billy Goat Path
One other common exercise at Nice Falls Park is climbing the Billy Goat Path. This path is split into three sections, every with its personal degree of issue. The path presents stunning views of the river and the park’s surrounding panorama.
You should definitely put on applicable footwear and convey loads of water, because the path may be difficult.
Customer Heart Displays
Cease into the Nice Falls Park Tavern Customer Heart for displays on the park’s historical past, geology, and wildlife. The displays are informative and fascinating, making them a good way to study extra in regards to the park and its environment.
The customer middle is at the moment closed for renovation, so examine the web site for opening dates earlier than planning a go to.
General, Nice Falls Park is a good day journey vacation spot for nature lovers. With its beautiful views, climbing trails, and informative displays, there’s one thing for everybody to get pleasure from. All guests require an entrance cross.
4. Assateague Island Nationwide Seashore
If you happen to’re in search of a nature-filled day journey from Washington D.C., Assateague Island Nationwide Seashore is a superb choice.
This stunning 37 mile, 48,000 acre barrier island with a wide range of bayside and oceanside tenting areas is situated simply three hours from D.C.. And there heaps to do. Well-known for its wild horses, and numerous wildlife right here you may also discover its pristine seashores, trails, coastal bays, salt marshes and maritime forests.
Right here’s what else there’s to do on Assateague Island:
See Wild Horses
One of many primary points of interest of Assateague Island is the tons of of untamed horses that roam freely on the island. Made well-known from Marguerite Henry’s ebook Misty of Chincoteague, recognizing them of their pure habitat is an expertise you gained’t overlook.
Whereas many consider the horses are the decedents of survivors of a shipwreck off the Virginia coast, the Nationwide Park Service says:
“Whereas this dramatic story of battle and survival is common, there aren’t any information but that affirm it. Probably the most believable rationalization is that they’re the descendants of horses that had been dropped at barrier islands like Assateague within the late seventeenth century by mainland homeowners to keep away from fencing legal guidelines and taxation of livestock.”
Whereas there’s not option to know precisely the place the horses will probably be, you may take a guided kayak or boat tour to extend your possibilities of seeing them. Each Assateague Explorer and Assateague Outfitters provide cruises, kayak, canoe and wildlife excursions.
If you happen to’re exploring by yourself, the horses are sometimes be seen roaming the seaside, marshy areas, or noticed on the Nationwide Park’s Over Sand Car part of the park. In order for you to have the ability to drive on the seaside, you want a four-wheel drive automobile and permits are required.
No matter approach you resolve to discover Assateague, keep in mind to maintain a protected distance from the horses, since they’re wild animals and are unpredictable.
Head to the Seaside Actions
Assateague Island is dwelling to among the most stunning seashores on the East Coast. The island has two public seashores, the Maryland aspect and the Virginia aspect accessed in close by Chincoteague, VA, each of provide miles of pristine sand and waters.
You possibly can swim, sunbathe, or go for a stroll alongside the shore. The seashores are additionally nice for fishing, crabbing, and clamming.
If you happen to’re feeling adventurous, you may hire a kayak or paddleboard and discover the island’s waterways.
Tenting Choices
If you wish to spend greater than a day on Assateague Island, there are a number of tenting choices accessible. The island has two campgrounds, each of which provide tent-only and RV tenting. Assateague additionally presents horse tenting, the place equestrians can convey their horses in a single day and journey the paths throughout the day.
The campgrounds are situated within the Maryland District and the Virginia District, and each provide quick access to the seaside and different island actions. Understand that tenting on Assateague Island requires a allow, and reservations are really helpful, particularly throughout the peak season.
General, Assateague Island Nationwide Seashore is a must-visit vacation spot for nature lovers within the D.C. space.
With its wild horses, stunning seashores, and numerous wildlife, it’s the right place to flee town and immerse your self in nature. You possibly can go to the park’s web site to plan your go to, make tenting reservations and purchase passes.
5. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Nationwide Historic Park
If you happen to’re a nature lover in search of a day journey from Washington D.C, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Nationwide Historic Park is a good alternative.
Again in 1961, President Dwight D. Eisenhower determined to show the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal right into a Nationwide Monument. Why? To guard this historic canal and its unique constructions which carried coal, lumber, and items all through the area.
These days, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Nationwide Historic Park is sort of a treasure hunt. You possibly can discover historical past, nature, and enjoyable stuff alongside its banks.
The park stretches 184.5 miles tracing the Potomac River, and connecting Washington, D.C.’s Georgetown part all the way in which to Cumberland, Maryland.
Listed below are among the issues you are able to do within the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Nationwide Historic Park:
Towpath Biking
The towpath is a flat, gravel path that runs alongside the canal. It’s good for biking, and you may hire bikes on the Nice Falls Tavern Customer Heart entrance of the canal.
The park presents 10 suggestions for biking the C&O Canal that will help you plan your journey. You may as well convey your personal bike and journey the whole size of the towpath.
Lockhouse Stays
If you wish to spend greater than a day within the park, keep in one of many historic lockhouses for a novel expertise.
In keeping with the Nationwide Park Service:
“A lock is an elevator for boats. It lifts boats up or right down to the subsequent degree on the canal. There are 74 locks on the C and O Canal. Just one boat at a time can match within the lock. Locks are 100 toes lengthy and 15 toes large.”
The lock home historic buildings had been initially utilized by lock keepers within the nineteenth century and have been restored for in a single day stays. You possibly can hire a lockhouse for an evening or longer, and expertise what life was like for the lock keepers.
Water Actions and Boat Trip Experiences
Water lovers can take a mule-towed boat journey on the canal. This one isn’t your common boat journey. The boat rides are common, so it’s greatest to make a reservation upfront.
The Nice Falls aspect of the park presents rides on a duplicate 1870’s packet boat whereas the Williamsport, MD launch web site provides guests rides on a duplicate 1900’s electrical launch boat.
Whether or not you’re biking, staying in a single day, or taking a ship journey, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Nationwide Historic Park is a good day journey from Washington D.C.
6. George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests
If you happen to’re a nature lover in search of a day journey from Washington D.C., the George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests are a terrific choice.
Masking land situated in western Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky these forests cowl almost 1.7 million acres and provide a wide range of out of doors actions for guests to get pleasure from.
Listed below are among the issues you are able to do within the George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests:
Climbing Trails
The George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests have over 1,925 miles of climbing trails, making it a terrific vacation spot for hikers of all ranges. Whether or not you’re in search of a brief day hike or a multi-day backpacking journey, there’s a path for you.
Some common trails embrace the Appalachian Path, the Crabtree Falls Path, and the Dragon’s Tooth Path.
Fishing and Searching
If you happen to’re an angler or hunter, the George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests provide loads of alternatives to get a terrific catch.
The forests have over 2,000 miles of lakes, rivers, ponds and streams and almost 40 species of fish, together with trout, bass, and catfish. There are additionally searching alternatives, with a wide range of sport species reminiscent of deer, turkey, and bear.
Campgrounds
If you wish to spend greater than a day within the forests, there are a number of campgrounds to select from.
Along with 3 cabins The George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests has over 40 campgrounds, starting from primitive websites to fully-equipped RV websites.
Some common campgrounds embrace the Sherando Lake Recreation Space and the Loft Mountain Campground.
General, the George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests are a terrific day journey vacation spot for nature lovers. With loads of climbing trails, fishing and searching alternatives, and campgrounds to select from, there’s one thing for everybody to get pleasure from. You should buy park passes and plan your journey right here.
7. Catoctin Mountain Park
If you happen to’re in search of a nature-filled day journey from Washington D.C, Catoctin Mountain Park is a must-visit. Nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains, this park is dwelling to 25 miles of climbing trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Listed below are among the highlights of Catoctin Mountain Park that you just gained’t need to miss:
Waterfall Enjoyable at Cunningham Falls
One of the vital common locations within the park is Cunningham Falls, a 78-foot waterfall that cascades right into a crystal-clear pool.
Cunningham Falls is the most important cascading waterfall within the state of Maryland. To entry it, you’ll must take a 2 mile spherical journey hike on park’s Falls Nature Path that leaves off the car parking zone throughout from the customer middle.
There are additionally loads of alternatives for swimming and picnicking within the space.
Catoctin Wildlife Protect
One other must-see attraction in Catoctin Mountain Park is the Catoctin Wildlife Protect.
This unimaginable 50-acre protect is dwelling open seasonally April via November is dwelling to over 300 unique animals, together with zebras, giraffes, and kangaroos.
Guests can take a guided safari tour of the protect or discover on their very own.
Tenting and Picnicking
If you wish to spend greater than a day within the park, there are many lodging, tenting and picnicking alternatives accessible. The park has three campgrounds with a complete of 100 campsites, cabin leases and a number of other picnic areas with grills and tables. If you wish to camp, you’ll want to make a reservation .
Whether or not you’re in search of a day of climbing, an opportunity to see unique animals, or a peaceable picnic in nature, Catoctin Mountain Park has one thing for everybody. You possibly can plan your journey and purchase entrance passes on the park’s web site.
8. Mason Neck State Park
If you happen to’re a nature lover in search of a day journey from Washington D.C., Mason Neck State Park is a good alternative. Positioned in southern Fairfax County, the park is only a brief drive from town and presents a wide range of out of doors actions multi-use trails, a big picnic space, a playground, canoe and kayak leases.
Listed below are among the highlights of Mason Neck State Park that you just gained’t need to miss:
Chicken Watching
Mason Neck State Park is a well-liked vacation spot for chicken watchers. The park is dwelling to a wide range of chicken species, together with bald eagles, ospreys, and nice blue herons.
There are a number of commentary areas all through the park the place you may watch these birds of their pure habitat.
Kayaking and Canoeing
If you happen to get pleasure from kayaking or canoeing, Mason Neck State Park is a good place to go to. The park presents a car-top boat launch for straightforward entry to the water.
You possibly can hire kayaks and canoes from April via October and discover the park’s wetlands and bay.
Climbing Trails
Mason Neck State Park has a number of climbing trails that provide stunning views of the park’s pure magnificence.
The Bay View Path is a 3-mile loop that takes you thru the wetlands and presents views of Belmont Bay.
The Excessive Level Path is a 2.5-mile loop that takes you thru the forest and presents views of the Potomac River.
General, Mason Neck State Park is a good day journey vacation spot for nature lovers within the Washington D.C. space. Whether or not you get pleasure from chicken watching, kayaking, or climbing, there’s one thing for everybody to get pleasure from at this stunning park.
Entrance passes are required to get into the park and may be bought on-line.
9. Prince William Forest Park
If you happen to’re in search of a nature escape from the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C, Prince William Forest Park is an ideal alternative. Positioned simply half-hour from the White Home, this park is a pure refuge with aromatic woods, trickling streams, and over 37 miles of climbing trails.
Right here a number of issues to do in Prince William State Park that you just gained’t need to miss:
Cabin Tenting
Keep in a single day in one of many park’s 5 rustic cabins and luxuriate in a real wilderness expertise. 4 of the cabins are listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations.
The cabins are outfitted with primary facilities reminiscent of beds, a desk, chairs, and a wooden range. There are additionally campsites accessible for tent tenting. You should definitely make cabin reservations earlier than you go.
Nature Walks
Discover the park’s numerous ecosystem on one of many many nature walks accessible. The park’s trails vary from straightforward to strenuous, so there’s one thing for everybody.
Preserve an eye fixed out for the park’s wildlife, together with deer, foxes, and even black bears.
Historic Websites
Prince William Forest Park has a wealthy historical past, courting again to the Thirties when it was used as a Civilian Conservation Corps camp. At this time, you may discover the remnants of the camp, together with the unique mess corridor and cabins.
The park additionally performed a task in World Warfare II as a coaching floor for spies and saboteurs.
Whether or not you’re in search of a peaceable retreat or an outside journey, Prince William Forest Park has one thing for everybody. Don’t overlook to pack a picnic and luxuriate in lunch within the nice open air. Park passes may be purchesed on-line or on the park with a debit or bank card.
10. Rock Creek Park
If you happen to’re a nature lover visiting Washington D.C, then Rock Creek Park is a must-visit attraction. It is without doubt one of the largest and oldest city forests within the nation, spanning 4.4 sq. miles throughout the northwestern quadrant of town.
Listed below are among the wonderful issues to do at Rock Creek Park:
Nature Heart and Planetarium
The Nature Heart and Planetarium is a good place to begin your go to to Rock Creek Park. Positioned on the northern finish of the park, it presents a spread of academic displays and interactive shows which can be good for all ages.
The planetarium presents a spread of reveals that may take you on a journey via the celebrities and past.
Horseback Driving
Within the woods of the park, you’ll discover Rock Creek Horse Heart. The one public using facility in Washington D.C., this secure presents horseback using classes, barn excursions, pony rides and guided path rides. It’s a good way to discover the park’s trails and see the pure great thing about the realm.
The secure is open year-round, and the rides are appropriate for riders of all ranges. Reservations are required.
Peirce Mill
Peirce Mill is a historic gristmill situated in Rock Creek Park. It was constructed within the 1820s and operated till the early Eighteen Nineties. At this time, this museum presents a glimpse into the historical past of milling and the significance of water energy within the improvement of the nation.
Guests can take a tour of the mill and study in regards to the milling course of and the individuals who labored there.
Rock Creek Park is a good place to flee from the hustle and bustle of town and benefit from the pure great thing about the realm. Whether or not you need to go climbing, horseback using, or simply calm down and benefit from the surroundings, there’s something for everybody at Rock Creek Park.
Steadily Requested Questions
What are the highest nature locations inside a day’s drive from Washington D.C.?
A few of Washington D.C.’s the highest nature locations inside a day’s drive embrace Shenandoah Nationwide Park in Virginia, Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park in West Virginia, and Catoctin Mountain Park in Maryland. These parks provide scenic drives, climbing trails, and beautiful views of the pure great thing about the area.
Which close by parks provide the very best out of doors expertise for a day journey from D.C.?
If you’re in search of the very best out of doors expertise for a day journey from D.C., then head to Nice Falls Park in Virginia or Rock Creek Park in D.C. Each parks provide climbing trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the Potomac River.
You may as well go to the Patuxent Analysis Refuge in Maryland, which presents wildlife viewing, climbing trails, and academic applications.
How can I plan a romantic nature getaway day journey from Washington D.C.?
If you’re in search of a romantic nature getaway day journey from D.C., then head to the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. The valley is understood for its beautiful mountain views, wineries, and charming small cities.
Take a scenic drive on the Skyline Drive, hike to a waterfall, or get pleasure from a picnic with the one you love. You may as well go to the Shenandoah Caverns or for unimaginable views take a scorching air balloon journey over the valley.
What are some distinctive pure points of interest for a day journey accessible from D.C. by practice?
If you’re in search of a novel pure attraction for a day journey accessible from D.C. by practice, then head to the Nice Dismal Swamp Nationwide Wildlife Refuge in Suffolk, Virginia close to Norfolk.
The refuge is dwelling to a wide range of wildlife, together with black bears, bobcats, and river otters. Guided boat excursions can be found or hike on one of many many trails within the refuge.
The place can I discover scenic winter landscapes for a day journey close to Washington D.C.?
If you’re in search of scenic winter landscapes for a day journey close to Washington D.C., then head to the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia.
The mountains provide beautiful views of snow-capped peaks and frozen waterfalls.
You may as well go snowboarding, snowboarding, or snowshoeing at one of many many ski resorts within the space. Bryce Resort is one ski resort about two hours west of Washington, D.C.
What are the very best car-free choices for experiencing nature on a day journey from D.C.?
If you’re in search of car-free choices for experiencing nature on a day journey from D.C., then head to the Nationwide Arboretum in D.C the place you may discover 446 acres of natural world.
The arboretum has a wide range of gardens and collections and ongoing occasions. Don’t miss their well-known magnolia, azalea, or Asian Collections.
Another choice is to take a motorcycle journey on the Capital Crescent Path, which presents beautiful views of the Potomac River.
