Are you a nature lover on the lookout for a fast escape from busy Washington D.C.? You then’ll be glad to be taught the nation’s capital is intently surrounded by beautiful peaceable mountain landscapes and seaside adventures.
From mountain climbing alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains within the Shenandoah Nationwide Park to kayaking within the Chesapeake Bay, there’s one thing for everybody.
For those who’re on the lookout for one thing nearer to town, at Nice Falls Park you’ll be able to hike alongside the Potomac River whereas discovering beautiful waterfalls. And it’s below 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’ll be able to swim, sunbathe, and even spot wild horses.
It doesn’t matter what you’re on the lookout for, Washington D.C. has loads of shut by locations for nature lovers in below a 3 hour drive.
Key Factors You’ll Uncover
- Shenandoah Nationwide Park and Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park are in style day journey locations with tons to do for nature lovers close to Washington D.C.
- Nice Falls Park is nice choices for these on the lookout for outside 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 quick drive away, Washington D.C. is the right vacation spot for nature lovers.
1. Shenandoah Nationwide Park
One of the crucial in style day journeys from Washington D.C. for nature lovers is the beautiful Shenandoah Nationwide Park.
Situated simply 75 miles and about 2 hours away from town, this attractive park is dwelling to over 500 miles of mountain climbing trails, together with the well-known Appalachian Path, beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and quite a lot of outside actions..
You’ll have the chance to see breathtaking waterfalls, sweeping vistas, and an abundance of wildlife all through.
Listed here are a number of 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 absorb the gorgeous views of the mountains and valleys.
Alongside the way in which, there are a number of overlooks the place you’ll be able to cease and take footage or have a picnic.
Maintain a watch out for wildlife, together with black bears, deer, and wild turkeys.
Outdated Rag Mountain
For a tougher outside journey, think about mountain climbing Outdated 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. Be certain to carry loads of water and snacks, and put on sturdy mountain climbing sneakers.
Darkish Hole Falls
For a shorter hike, Darkish Hole Falls is superb. This 1.4-mile hike takes you to a gorgeous waterfall, with a number of smaller falls alongside the way in which. The path is well-maintained and comparatively simple, however there are some steep sections.
Be certain to put on comfy sneakers and convey a digicam to seize the beautiful surroundings.
Total, Shenandoah Nationwide Park is a superb 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 might be bought on-line or on the park.
2. Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park
For those who’re a nature lover, you’ll discover lots to discover at Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park. Situated on the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, this park is a well-liked vacation spot for mountain climbing, exploring historical past, and having fun with river actions.
A few 90 minute drive from downtown D.C., right here, you’ll be able to hike the Appalachian Path, go whitewater rafting, or discover Harpers Ferry, the historic city that performed an important position within the Civil Battle.
Listed here are a number of the issues you are able to do in Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park:
Climbing the Appalachian Path
One of the crucial in style actions at Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park is mountain climbing the Appalachian Path. The path runs by way of the park and affords beautiful views of the encircling mountains and rivers.
You may select from quite a lot of hikes, starting from simple to strenuous. The park affords a number of kinds of trails which are good for households with younger kids, in addition to longer hikes for knowledgeable hikers.
Exploring Civil Battle Historical past
Harpers Ferry performed a major position within the Civil Battle, and you’ll 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 occasions throughout the battle.
You may 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
For those who love water actions, Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park has lots to supply. You may go tubing, kayaking, or rafting on the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers.
The park has a number of outfitters that supply leases and guided excursions, so you’ll be able to benefit from the rivers even in case you don’t have your personal tools. You may as well go fishing within the rivers, that are dwelling to quite a lot of fish species.
Total, Harpers Ferry Nationwide Historic Park is a superb vacation spot for nature lovers who wish to discover historical past, hike by way of lovely surroundings, and revel in river actions. You may purchase entrance passes on-line or on the customer heart entrance station.
3. Nice Falls Park
For those who’re a nature lover on the lookout for a day journey from Washington D.C, Nice Falls Park is a must-visit vacation spot. Situated simply 15 miles from town and 800 acres (3.2 km2), this park affords beautiful views of the Potomac River and its waterfalls.
Listed here are a number of the issues you are able to do in Nice Falls Park:
The Potomac River and Waterfall Views
The park’s major attraction is the Shenandoah Nationwide Park Wildlife, which affords breathtaking views of the waterfalls and rapids. You may take a leisurely stroll alongside the paths or hike to the highest of the cliffs for a panoramic view of the river. Make sure to carry your digicam to seize the beautiful surroundings.
For motion on the river, attempt kayaking or whitewater rafting.
Billy Goat Path
One other in style exercise at Nice Falls Park is mountain climbing the Billy Goat Path. This path is split into three sections, every with its personal stage of problem. The path affords lovely views of the river and the park’s surrounding panorama.
Make sure to put on acceptable footwear and convey loads of water, because the path might be difficult.
Customer Middle Reveals
Cease into the Nice Falls Park Tavern Customer Middle for displays on the park’s historical past, geology, and wildlife. The displays are informative and fascinating, making them a good way to be taught extra in regards to the park and its environment.
The customer heart is at the moment closed for renovation, so examine the web site for opening dates earlier than planning a go to.
Total, Nice Falls Park is a superb day journey vacation spot for nature lovers. With its beautiful views, mountain climbing trails, and informative displays, there’s one thing for everybody to take pleasure in. All guests require an entrance move.
4. Assateague Island Nationwide Seashore
For those who’re on the lookout for a nature-filled day journey from Washington D.C., Assateague Island Nationwide Seashore is a superb choice.
This lovely 37 mile, 48,000 acre barrier island with quite a lot of bayside and oceanside tenting areas is positioned simply three hours from D.C.. And there tons to do. Well-known for its wild horses, and various wildlife right here you can too discover its pristine seashores, trails, coastal bays, salt marshes and maritime forests.
Right here’s what else there may be to do on Assateague Island:
See Wild Horses
One of many major sights of Assateague Island is the a whole bunch 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 imagine the horses are the decedents of survivors of a shipwreck off the Virginia coast, the Nationwide Park Service says:
“Whereas this dramatic story of wrestle and survival is in style, there aren’t any data 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 house owners to keep away from fencing legal guidelines and taxation of livestock.”
Whereas there’s not method to know precisely the place the horses will likely be, you’ll be able to 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.
For those who’re exploring by yourself, the horses are sometimes be seen roaming the seaside, marshy areas, or noticed on the Nationwide Park’s Over Sand Automobile 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 means you determine to discover Assateague, bear in mind to maintain a protected distance from the horses, since they’re wild animals and are unpredictable.
Head to the Seashore Actions
Assateague Island is dwelling to a number of the most lovely seashores on the East Coast. The island has two public seashores, the Maryland facet and the Virginia facet accessed in close by Chincoteague, VA, each of provide miles of pristine sand and waters.
You may swim, sunbathe, or go for a stroll alongside the shore. The seashores are additionally nice for fishing, crabbing, and clamming.
For those who’re feeling adventurous, you’ll be able to 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 affords horse tenting, the place equestrians can carry their horses in a single day and experience the paths throughout the day.
The campgrounds are positioned 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 useful, particularly throughout the peak season.
Total, Assateague Island Nationwide Seashore is a must-visit vacation spot for nature lovers within the D.C. space.
With its wild horses, lovely seashores, and various wildlife, it’s the right place to flee town and immerse your self in nature. You may 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
For those who’re a nature lover on the lookout for a day journey from Washington D.C, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Nationwide Historic Park is a superb 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 buildings 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 may 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 here are a number of 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’ll hire bikes on the Nice Falls Tavern Customer Middle entrance of the canal.
The park affords 10 ideas for biking the C&O Canal that will help you plan your journey. You may as well carry your personal bike and experience 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 singular expertise.
In accordance with the Nationwide Park Service:
“A lock is an elevator for boats. It lifts boats up or all the way down to the subsequent stage 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 broad.”
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 may hire a lockhouse for an evening or longer, and expertise what life was like for the lock keepers.
Water Actions and Boat Journey Experiences
Water lovers can take a mule-towed boat experience on the canal. This one isn’t your common boat experience. The boat rides are in style, so it’s finest to make a reservation prematurely.
The Nice Falls facet of the park affords rides on a duplicate 1870’s packet boat whereas the Williamsport, MD launch website offers 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 experience, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Nationwide Historic Park is a superb day journey from Washington D.C.
6. George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests
For those who’re a nature lover on the lookout for a day journey from Washington D.C., the George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests are an excellent choice.
Overlaying land positioned in western Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky these forests cowl almost 1.7 million acres and provide quite a lot of outside actions for guests to take pleasure in.
Listed here are a number of 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 mountain climbing trails, making it an excellent vacation spot for hikers of all ranges. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a brief day hike or a multi-day backpacking journey, there’s a path for you.
Some in style trails embrace the Appalachian Path, the Crabtree Falls Path, and the Dragon’s Tooth Path.
Fishing and Searching
For those who’re an angler or hunter, the George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests provide loads of alternatives to get an excellent 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 quite a lot of sport species comparable to 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 in style campgrounds embrace the Sherando Lake Recreation Space and the Loft Mountain Campground.
Total, the George Washington & Jefferson Nationwide Forests are an excellent day journey vacation spot for nature lovers. With loads of mountain climbing trails, fishing and searching alternatives, and campgrounds to select from, there’s one thing for everybody to take pleasure in. You may buy park passes and plan your journey right here.
7. Catoctin Mountain Park
For those who’re on the lookout for 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 mountain climbing trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Listed here are a number of the highlights of Catoctin Mountain Park that you just gained’t wish to miss:
Waterfall Enjoyable at Cunningham Falls
One of the crucial in style locations within the park is Cunningham Falls, a 78-foot waterfall that cascades right into a crystal-clear pool.
Cunningham Falls is the biggest 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 heart.
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 unbelievable 50-acre protect is dwelling open seasonally April by way of 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, be sure you make a reservation .
Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a day of mountain climbing, an opportunity to see unique animals, or a peaceable picnic in nature, Catoctin Mountain Park has one thing for everybody. You may plan your journey and purchase entrance passes on the park’s web site.
8. Mason Neck State Park
For those who’re a nature lover on the lookout for a day journey from Washington D.C., Mason Neck State Park is a superb alternative. Situated in southern Fairfax County, the park is only a quick drive from town and affords quite a lot of outside actions multi-use trails, a big picnic space, a playground, canoe and kayak leases.
Listed here are a number of the highlights of Mason Neck State Park that you just gained’t wish to miss:
Fowl Watching
Mason Neck State Park is a well-liked vacation spot for fowl watchers. The park is dwelling to quite a lot of fowl species, together with bald eagles, ospreys, and nice blue herons.
There are a number of commentary areas all through the park the place you’ll be able to watch these birds of their pure habitat.
Kayaking and Canoeing
For those who take pleasure in kayaking or canoeing, Mason Neck State Park is a superb place to go to. The park affords a car-top boat launch for simple entry to the water.
You may hire kayaks and canoes from April by way of October and discover the park’s wetlands and bay.
Climbing Trails
Mason Neck State Park has a number of mountain climbing trails that supply lovely views of the park’s pure magnificence.
The Bay View Path is a 3-mile loop that takes you thru the wetlands and affords views of Belmont Bay.
The Excessive Level Path is a 2.5-mile loop that takes you thru the forest and affords views of the Potomac River.
Total, Mason Neck State Park is a superb day journey vacation spot for nature lovers within the Washington D.C. space. Whether or not you take pleasure in fowl watching, kayaking, or mountain climbing, there’s one thing for everybody to take pleasure in at this lovely park.
Entrance passes are required to get into the park and might be bought on-line.
9. Prince William Forest Park
For those who’re on the lookout for a nature escape from the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C, Prince William Forest Park is an ideal alternative. Situated simply half-hour from the White Home, this park is a pure refuge with aromatic woods, trickling streams, and over 37 miles of mountain climbing trails.
Right here just a few issues to do in Prince William State Park that you just gained’t wish to miss:
Cabin Tenting
Keep in a single day in one of many park’s 5 rustic cabins and revel in a real wilderness expertise. 4 of the cabins are listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations.
The cabins are outfitted with fundamental facilities comparable to beds, a desk, chairs, and a wooden range. There are additionally campsites accessible for tent tenting. Make sure to make cabin reservations earlier than you go.
Nature Walks
Discover the park’s various ecosystem on one of many many nature walks accessible. The park’s trails vary from simple to strenuous, so there’s one thing for everybody.
Maintain a watch 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. Right now, you’ll be able to discover the remnants of the camp, together with the unique mess corridor and cabins.
The park additionally performed a task in World Battle II as a coaching floor for spies and saboteurs.
Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a peaceable retreat or an outside journey, Prince William Forest Park has one thing for everybody. Don’t overlook to pack a picnic and revel in lunch within the nice open air. Park passes might be purchesed on-line or on the park with a debit or bank card.
10. Rock Creek Park
For those who’re a nature lover visiting Washington D.C, then Rock Creek Park is a must-visit attraction. It is likely one of the greatest and oldest city forests within the nation, spanning 4.4 sq. miles throughout the northwestern quadrant of town.
Listed here are a number of the superb issues to do at Rock Creek Park:
Nature Middle and Planetarium
The Nature Middle and Planetarium is a superb place to start out your go to to Rock Creek Park. Situated on the northern finish of the park, it affords a variety of academic displays and interactive shows which are good for all ages.
The planetarium affords a variety of exhibits that may take you on a journey by way of the celebrities and past.
Horseback Using
Within the woods of the park, you’ll discover Rock Creek Horse Middle. The one public using facility in Washington D.C., this steady affords 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 fantastic thing about the world.
The steady 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 positioned in Rock Creek Park. It was constructed within the 1820s and operated till the early Eighteen Nineties. Right now, this museum affords 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 be taught in regards to the milling course of and the individuals who labored there.
Rock Creek Park is a superb place to flee from the hustle and bustle of town and benefit from the pure fantastic thing about the world. Whether or not you wish to go mountain climbing, horseback using, or simply loosen up 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, mountain climbing trails, and beautiful views of the pure fantastic thing about the area.
Which close by parks provide the perfect outside expertise for a day journey from D.C.?
If you’re on the lookout for the perfect outside 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 mountain climbing trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the Potomac River.
You may as well go to the Patuxent Analysis Refuge in Maryland, which affords wildlife viewing, mountain climbing trails, and academic packages.
How can I plan a romantic nature getaway day journey from Washington D.C.?
If you’re on the lookout for 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 take pleasure in a picnic with the one you love. You may as well go to the Shenandoah Caverns or for unbelievable views take a sizzling air balloon experience over the valley.
What are some distinctive pure sights for a day journey accessible from D.C. by prepare?
If you’re on the lookout for a singular pure attraction for a day journey accessible from D.C. by prepare, then head to the Nice Dismal Swamp Nationwide Wildlife Refuge in Suffolk, Virginia close to Norfolk.
The refuge is dwelling to quite a lot 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 on the lookout for 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 perfect car-free choices for experiencing nature on a day journey from D.C.?
If you’re on the lookout for 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’ll be able to discover 446 acres of wildlife.
The arboretum has a number of gardens and collections and ongoing occasions. Don’t miss their well-known magnolia, azalea, or Asian Collections.
Another choice is to take a motorbike experience on the Capital Crescent Path, which affords beautiful views of the Potomac River.
