best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Best kid friendly trails and parks in the Washington DC area

Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have been enjoying more of the outdoor spaces in the area. We’ve had so much fun exploring some of the local parks in the DC area, and can’t wait to visit more this summer!

On the blog, I will share some of the best kid friendly trails and parks in the Washington DC area, including a few that we visited in the Maryland and Virginia area so far.

Some of the trails and parks are located within the city, and some are just a short drive away.

Our guide to the best kid friendly trails and parks in the Washington DC area is an ongoing list, and will continue to add more as we visit more parks over the summer. Make sure to check back for updates!


*This post may contain affiliate links. Affiliate links are no extra charge to you, but I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase.


Best kid friendly trails in Washington DC


Theodore Roosevelt Island

One of our favorite places for a family hike in Washington DC is at the Theodore Roosevelt Island. 

The trails here are the perfect length for the littlest hikers, and it’s located within the Mount Vernon Trail, which makes it a perfect stop as you make your way along the route.

best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
  • The Swamp trail is is an easy 1 ½ miles, and is the longest trail on Theodore Roosevelt Island. The trail passes through swampy woods and marsh, and is part gravel and part boardwalk.It’s a fairly easy hike that will keep the kiddos engaged and distracted as they make their way through.
  • The Woods Trail is one of the shorter trails which goes for about a ⅓ mile and passes through the Memorial Plaza where you will find the statue of Theodore Roosevelt.
  • The Upland Trail goes for a ¾ mile and passes though the forest and loops around the former site of the Mason mansion.
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: The trails are part boardwalk, packed dirt and gravel, and some spots can be muddy. Jogger strollers may work.
  • Free Parking near the footbridge to the island
  • Restrooms available (closed during the winter; porta potties available)
  • Location: Theodore Roosevelt Island National Memorial Washington DC 20007

Make sure to visit the website to download trail maps to help you plan your visit.

best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Lyndon B. Johnson Memorial Grove 

Just outside of Washington DC is the Lyndon B. Johnson Memorial Grove which is one of our favorite spots for a picnic and a short walk.

This 17-acre park is so peaceful and it’s the perfect place for a family day out! You can go for a short hike or bike along the serpentine paths or kayak along the Pentagon lagoon.

Theres also a short boardwalk trail that connects the park to the Pentagon lot. There is lots of free parking, restrooms, and there’s also a restaurant nearby at the Marina.

You can also access the Mount Vernon trail from here and make your way to Theodore Roosevelt Island on foot or on a bike which goes for about 2.3 miles one way. 

  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and Wheelchair accessible 
  • Free Parking
  • Restroom at the parking lot 
  • Location: George Washington Memorial Pkwy, Washington, DC 20037

Tidal Basin Loop Trail

The Tidal Basin Loop Trail is another kid friendly walk in Washington DC. The easy 2.1 mile trail circles the Tidal Basin and is the perfect walk, especially when the cherry blossoms are in bloom!

  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and Wheelchair accessible
  • Metered Parking along the Tidal Basin
  • Restrooms located at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, MLK Memorial.
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
Tidal Basin Loop Trail during cherry blossom season

United States National Arboretum 

The National Arboretum is another great place for some outdoor adventures in Washington DC. , and boasts more than 400 acres of green space to wander, with 9.5 miles of winding roadways to explore.

  • There are several different gardens, forest areas, and exhibits to explore on your visit. You can spend the day on a bike ride or go on a short hike along the forest.
  • We love the hike along the Azalea gardens, especially during the spring when it’s in full bloom. It’s a pretty short trail, but the kids will have such a great time admiring nature!
  • Make sure to pack a picnic lunch and find a shady spot in the park to lounge, its the perfect place to spend a lazy summer afternoon.
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free Parking
  • Restrooms locations around the park
  • Location: 3501 New York ave. NE, Washington, DC 20002
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath

Another fun family trail in Washington DC is along the Potomac on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal towpath.

Explore America’s earliest transportation history as you stroll along the historic C&O Canal. 

  • The canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River, and today is a popular recreational trail for bikers, hikers, and paddlers.
  •  This trail runs 184.5 miles along the C&O Canal from Georgetown to Cumberland, MD. 
  • Since the trail is mostly flat, it’s perfect for the little ones. This multi use trail starts out in Georgetown, and there are numerous places where you can access the trail.

Download the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath trail map here.

  • Fee: Free
  • Accessibility: The trails along the C&O canal towpath are graded gravel path throughout the park. It can get muddy after rain events, making the trail uneven in places. Trails can be stroller accessible with a jogger type stroller.
  • Free Parking in various locations (we usually access the trail along the Clara Barton Parkway)
  • No restrooms along the trail
  • Location: Trails runs 184.5 miles from Georgetown to Cumberland, MD
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Hains Point Loop Trail

One of our favorite kid friendly trails in Washington DC is at Hains Point. The Hains Point loop trail is a popular spot for bikers, and runners.

  • This 4.1 mile loop trail is the perfect place for a bike ride with the kids, especially in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
  • The best part is that there are also playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms and Free parking!
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free parking along Ohio and Buckeye Dr.
  • Restrooms 3 restroom locations around the park. One by the playground.
  • Location: Ohio Dr. SW, Washington, DC 20024
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Kid friendly Trails in Maryland


Rock Creek Regional Park, MD

  •  Just a short drive from Washington DC is Rock Creek Regional Park in Maryland. This 1,800-acre park is a popular recreational spot for boating, fishing, and hiking.
  • The Lakeside Trail is one of our favorite hikes, that goes along the perimeter of Lake Frank. This 3 1⁄4 mile long loop trail is partly paved, which makes it fun for kids who want to explore the trails on a bicycle or scooter, and is stroller friendly.
  • There are no restrooms on this trail, and parking can be found along Avery Road. Be aware that parking is limited here so come early!
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
  • The Lake Needwood trail is another fun little hike to do with kids at Rock Creek Regional park. The trail follows the perimeter of the lake, and goes for about 2.3 miles.
  • It’s a fairly easy hike to do with the kids, and there are many other recreational activities to enjoy, including archery, golf, and a GoApe zipline adventure nearby.
  • Download the Rock Creek Regional park brochure for everything the park has to offer including trail maps.
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Some parts of the trail are asphalt and are stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free Parking
  • Restrooms near picnic area
  • Location: 15700 Needwood Lake Circle Rockville, Maryland 20855
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Brookside Gardens Heartsmart Trail

One of our favorite kid friendly trails near DC is the Heartsmart Trail at Brookside Gardens. This one mile flat trail is perfect for the little ones that follows the perimeter of the gardens. Download the Heartsmart trail here.

Spring is the best time to explore this trail when all the flowers are in bloom! There are many beautiful gardens to explore, including the tulips, wisterias, and azalea gardens which is just absolutely beautiful!

  • Fee: Free
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free Parking
  • Restrooms at Visitors Center
  • Location: 1800 Glenallan Ave, Wheaton, MD 20902
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
Azalea Trail at Brookside Gardens

Wheaton Regional Park Trails

Located close to Brookside Gardens is the Wheaton Regional Park where there is an adventure playground for kids with climbing structures, swings, giant slides, a sand castle, and more.

There are also picnic tables, a carousel, miniature train ride, and a sports complex with an indoor and outdoor tennis facility, and an ice arena.

You can also access the Wheaton Regional Park trails, which offers over four miles of natural and hard surface trails to explore. Download the Wheaton Regional Park trail maps here.

  • FEE: FREE
  • Accessibility: Trails are part asphalt, and natural surfaces. Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Restrooms are temporarily closed, but there are portable toilets on site.
  • Parking: Free parking lot
  • Location: 2000 Shorefield Road Wheaton, Maryland 20902

Carderock Recreation Area

The Carderock Recreation area is located along the C&O Canal in Maryland, and is known for rock climbing for climbers of all skill levels including many beginner climbs. 

You can also access the Billy Goat Trail, and C&O Canal Towpath from here, which is the perfect length for kids. There are also picnic tables and restrooms with beautiful Potomac River views.

  • Billy Goat Trail section C: This section of the Billy Goat trail is a much more kid friendly trail that goes for about a 1.7 mile loop. This trail is fairly easy with a few rocky outcrops to traverse, and Potomac River views and a small waterfall as well.
  • FEE: FREE
  • Accessibility: Not Wheelchair accessible 
  • Restrooms at the Carderock Recreation Area
  • Parking at the Carderock recreation area north parking lot.
  • Location: 9500 MacArthur Blvd Bethesda, MD 20817
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Best kid friendly trails in Northern Virginia


Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park is another one of our favorite places for kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area. The Falls are the main highlight of the Park, and there are a few viewing points to admire them.

  • One of our favorite trails at Great Falls Park is the River Trail. This 1.5 mile hike meanders along the cliffs of the Potomac and offers spectacular views of the river and Mather Gorge. 
  • The kids will love climbing over boulders along the winding footpath. Just be aware that the trail runs along the edge of the cliffs, so keep the kiddos close for safety. 
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
Part of the River Trail at Great Falls VA
  • The Patowmack canal trail is probably one of the easiest trails at Great Falls. This 1.25 mile trail follows the historic Patowmack Canal, which is one of the first canals ever to be built in the United States. 
  • The Olmsted Island Overlook Trail in the Maryland side of Great Falls is and easy quarter mile one way boardwalk trail that ends with amazing views of the Falls.
  • Make sure to pick up a brochure for the self-guided tour of the Canal at the visitor center, along with a Junior Ranger booklet for the kids.
  • Fee: $20/vehicle-$15/motorcycle-$10 on foot
  • Accessibility: Only the Patowack Canal Trail and the Olmsted Island Overlook trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
  • Parking with admission
  • Restrooms by Visitors Center lower level
  • Location: (VA side) 9200 Old Dominion Dr. Mclean, VA 22102-(MD side) 11710 Macarthur Blvd. Potomac, MD 20854

READ MORE: Read our Guide to visiting Great Falls Park with kids.

best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
Boardwalk to the Olmsted Overlook in the Maryland side of Great Falls

Riverbend Park

Another park with kid friendly trails near DC is at the Riverbend Park located close to Great Falls Virginia.  

  • Riverbend Park has over 10 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails along the beautiful forest setting on the Potomac. Spring is the best time to visit when the bluebells cover the forest floor!
  • You can also park here for free and hike to Great Falls Park, which goes for about 3.5 miles out and back! 
  • Riverbend park is FREE to enter and park, and there is a Visitors Center with an information desk, gift shop, snack bar, maps, and souvenirs. Restrooms are also located here!
  • The Visitors Center also has a deck with chairs and tables with amazing views of the river, and is the perfect place to have a picnic before or after a hike. Make sure to download the Park map here for trail locations.
  • Bootlegger Trail is a 4 mile loop from the Visitors Center. The trail winds through forest, meadow and hollows.
  • Follow the Hollows Trail is a 2 mile loop, perfect for a family hike. 
  • Potomac Heritage Trail is a 2.5 mile trail that follows along the Potomac River.
  • Madison’s Escape Trail is 1 mile 
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: The trails are packed dirt and gravel, and some spots can be rocky and muddy.
  • Free Parking
  • Restrooms available at the Visitors Center
  • Location: 8700 Potomac Hills St, Great Falls, VA 22066
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Bluebell Loop Trail

Another fun kid friendly trail near Washington DC is the Blubell loop trail at the Bull Run Regional Park.

  • This 1.5 mile loop is a fairly easy hike and connects into the Bull Run Occoquan Trail, which goes for about 18 miles if you need more of a challenge.
  • The Bluebell Trail is perfect for hiking, nature walks, and bird watching, and is the perfect family hike.
  • The best part about this trail is in the spring when the bluebells cover the forest floor which looks so magical.
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Trails are a dirt path and narrow in some spots. A jogger stroller may work, but not wheelchair accessible.
  • Free parking at the Atlantis Water Park across the street
  • Porta Potties at the parking lot
  • Location: Address of the Atlantis Water Park-7700 Bull Run Dr. Centreville, VA 20121
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Mount Vernon Trail

  • Mount Vernon Trail is another one of our favorite trails in the Washington DC area. The 18 mile multi-use trail travels along the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Northern Virginia from George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, and goes all the way to Theodore Roosevelt Island. 
  • You can enjoy a walk or family bike ride along the trail which winds alongside the Potomac River. There are a few historic sites to take in along the route, and beautiful views of the Washington DC Skyline as you make your way close to the city.
  • Download the Mount Vernon Trail Map here.
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible (although some parts of the trail are hilly)
  • Free parking along the George Washington Memorial Parkway
  • Restrooms can be found in parks along the way, but not along the trail
  • Location: 18 miles of trails from George Washingtons Mount Vernon Estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve

Just a short drive from DC located along the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and Mount Vernon Trail is the Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve.

This 485 acres nature preserve is the perfect place for bird watching, and is the perfect trail for the little ones.

  • The park is open year round from 6am-10pm, and can be accessed from the Belle Haven Park. Be aware that bikes are not allowed on the trail.
  • The Haul Road Trail is an easy 3/4 mile trail that is flat, and paved in a combination of gravel and ends in a boardwalk overlooking the Potomac.
  • FEE: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible 
  • Restrooms and water fountains are located on the Mount Vernon Trail between the two large parking lots in Belle Haven Park, and at the marina.
  • Free Parking at the Belle Haven Park.  
  • Location: Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve, George Washington Mem. Parkway, VA

Burke Lake Park

We recently discovered Burke Lake Park in Fairfax Station, VA and it was such an amazing park! This 888 acre recreational park has lots to do for the whole family.

  • Not only can you hike along the 4.7 mile trail that goes along the perimeter of the lake, there’s also a miniature train ride, a carousel, multiple playgrounds, mini-golf or disc golf courses, boat rentals, camping, this park has it all!
  • Burke Lake Park is a popular spot for cyclists and hikers and is stroller friendly with an unpaved trail. Make sure the kids bring along a binocular for bird watching, and some snacks and bug spray.
  • Fees: Non-residents of Fairfax County must pay a per-vehicle fee to access the park on weekends April through October, residents are free.
  • Accessibility: Packed dirt paths (can get muddy and rocky in some spots) jogger stroller and wheelchair accessible, but may need assistance in some spots.
  • Plentiful parking
  • Restrooms by park shelters A&B
  • Location: 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Lake Accotink Park

Another hidden gem in Fairfax county Virginia is Lake Accotink Park. This 493 acre park is the perfect place to spend the day out in nature. 

  • The 3.8 mile multi-use trail loops around the lake and is mostly gravel, with some partly paved areas. It’s a stroller friendly loop, but just make sure to bring a sturdy jogger stroller.
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
  • There are some parts to the trail with a slight elevation, otherwise it’s a fairly flat trail.
  • To keep the kids engaged, I suggest bringing lots of snacks, do a scavenger hunt, and bring some binoculars for bird watching.
  • There are some benches along the way for the kids to take a break. It’s a fairly shady trail, which is a bonus when hiking with kids 
  • The Park offers many other family-friendly activities including a picnic area, classes, camps, and special events. There’s even a boat rental, miniature golf, and a carousel. 

*Make sure to visit the website for more information on the park and what amenties are being offered.

  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible (part asphalt and part dirt path) some areas can be rocky. Wheelchairs may need assistance in some spots.
  • Free Parking
  • Restrooms are located by the camp office by the boat launch
  • Location: 7500 Accotink Park Road Springfield, VA, 22150 
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Jones Point Park

Another kid friendly park near Washington DC is the Jones Point Park in Alexandria. 

The Park is one of the sites along the George Washington Memorial Parkway managed by the NPS, and was once the largest centers for shipping, manufacturing, and transportation in the nation. 

  • This recreational park has lots to offer for the little ones. You can find playgrounds, trails, basketball courts, and multi-use fields. There’s even a canoe launch which offers access to the Potomac River, and a fishing pier. 
  • The short gravel trail explains the history of the park, including the Jones Point lighthouse, which was built in 1855, and is the last remaining riverine lighthouse in Virginia.

*Kids can take part in some Ranger programs, like the Learn to Ride and Lighthouse life programs, just make sure to visit the website to see the calendar of events. (Note: most programs are closed for the year due to the pandemic)

  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free Parking
  • Restrooms and water fountains underneath the bridge
  • Location: Jones Point Dr. Alexandria, VA 23242
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Alexandria Waterfront Walk

Another fun trail for kids is the Alexandria Waterfront Walk in Old Town Alexandria.

  • You can start your walk along the Alexandria waterfront and make your way towards Founders Park, Oronoco Bay, and Tide Locke Park.
  • Make sure to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the Potomac River views along the way.
  • The Alexandria Waterfront Walk connects into the Mount Vernon Trail if you’re up for the challenge!
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Metered Parking along the streets, or parking garages in Old Town
  • Restrooms located at the Torpedo Factory Center
  • Location: Old Town Alexandria
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Huntley Meadows Park

Huntley Meadows is one of our favorite kid friendly parks in the Washington DC area. This 1,554 acre park is home to a diverse habitat including wetlands, meadows and mature forest. 

  • The park features an accessible wetlands boardwalk trail perfect for wildlife observation.
  • The half-mile boardwalk trail is the perfect place to spot turtles, frogs, dragonflies and even water snakes. The kids will also love the observation tower which is the perfect spot for bird watching.
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
  • The trails at Huntley Meadows are part boardwalk and part gravel, and continues on to the woodlands trail, which has benches throughout. In total, you can expect to hike a total of about 2 miles, which is the perfect length for the little ones.

*Make sure to stop by the Visitors center or visit the website for more information on educational exhibits, programs and for more park information. You can also download the Huntley Meadows trail maps here.

  • Fee: Free
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free Parking, but gets congested on weekends
  • by Visitors Center
  • Location: 3701 Lockheed Blvd. Alexandria, VA 22306
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Chessies Trail at Lee District Park

Another fun trail close to Huntley Meadows Park is Chessies trail at the Lee District Park.

  • This trail is designed with kids in mind with a variety of interactive features and activities along the way.
  • The kids will enjoy the sound garden and the spinning rocks as they stroll along the boardwalk, including the giant treehouse. 
  • Once they’re through with the short hike, they will love the amazing playground at Chessies big backyard and the seasonal splash pad at our Special harbor.
  • There’s even a carousel for the little ones to enjoy and popsicles for sale at the refreshment area.
  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free Parking
  • Restrooms by the playground
  • Location: 6601 Telegraph Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Mason Neck State Park

One of our favorite places for outdoor adventures is at Mason Neck State Park. The park is home to bald eagles, great blue herons, ospreys, and many other types of wildlife, which makes it a fun hike for the kids.

  • There are quite a few trails to choose from, including a 3 mile paved multi-use trails, which is perfect for biking with the kids. 
  • One of the most kid friendly trail at Mason Neck is the Bay View Trail. This easy 1.2 mile trail meanders through the forest and is a great place to admire nature and bird watching as well. 
  • The trail is part gravel and part boardwalk, and passes through marshlands, and an incredible sandy beach with views of Belmont Bay. 
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
  • Check out the Visitors center for more information on the park, including some exhibits and programs for the kids. You can even rent canoes and kayaks and explore Belmont Bay.
  • Make sure to pack a picnic lunch, and enjoy it in one of the picnic areas in the park.
  • Nature Programs are offered throughout the year, which includes bird walks, eagle watches, pond dips, animal tracks, bug ID and more.

*Visit the website for more information, and to see if they are being offered this summer. You can also download the park brochure here, which includes trail maps.

  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Some trails are stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free Parking
  • Restrooms by the Visitors Center
  • Location: 7301 High Point Rd. Lorton, Va
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Neabsco Creek Boardwalk Trail

Another one of our favorite kid friendly trails near Washington DC is the Neabsco Creek boardwalk trail.

This 3/4 mile boardwalk is part of the Neabsco Regional Park, which traverses the Neabsco creek, with access to wetlands.

The kids will love bird watching along with other wildlife including turtles, tadpoles and dragonflies.

The boardwalk is part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, established by Congress with a network of trails stretching about 800 miles.

You can also find a playground here, and a few historical landmarks close by such as Rippon Lodge and Leesylvania State Park.

Parking can be found at 15125 Blackburn Road, right across the Rippon Lodge Historic site. There are also portable restrooms at the parking lot as well.

  • Fee: FREE
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Free Parking
  • Portable restrooms at the parking lot
  • Location: 15125 Blackburn Rd. Woodbridge, VA 22191
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

National Parks close to Washington DC


Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Another place for a fun kid friendly hike near DC is at the Harpers Ferry NHP. Harpers Ferry is a short drive from DC and there are a few hikes that are perfect for a family day out.

  • The Camp Hill and Appalachian Trail is a moderate hike that the kids can tackle. It goes for about 2-3 miles round trip with some optional side trails. It starts out at the information center, up some stone steps to Jefferson Rock, and an option to continue on to the Appalachian Trail or at the Harpers Ferry Cemetery.
  • The Maryland Heights Trail is more suitable for older kids that goes for about 4.5 miles up a steady incline along a rocky trail, and ends with the most amazing views.
  • Fee: $20/vehicle-$10 on foot
  • Accessibility: Some parts of the park are stroller and wheelchair accessible, although most of the trails aren’t accessible at all.
  • Free Parking at the Visitors Center
  • Restrooms at the Visitors Center, by the bookshop in town, and many restaurants have restrooms as well.
  • Location: 171 Shoreline Dr. Harpers Ferry, WV 25425

READ MORE: How to spend the day at Harpers Ferry with kids

best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

Assateague Island National Seashore

One of our favorite National Parks in the Washington DC area is the Assateague Island National Seashore in the Eastern Shores of Virginia and Maryland.

  • This amazing park on Chincoteague Island is home to the Wild Chincoteague ponies, and is one of the highlights when visiting the park.
  • You can enjoy hiking the trails on Chincoteague and Assateague Island, go crabbing, bird watching, camping, or swimming on Assateague Beach.
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
  • One of our favorite trails on the island is the Wildlife loop trail, perfect for bird watching. This 3.25 mile paved multi-use trail is easy to explore on foot, bike or car.
  • We also love the short lighthouse trail, that takes you into the woods to the historic Assateague lighthouse.
  • Make sure to visit the Visitors Center for some educational exhibits, and to learn more about all there is to do on your visit to the Assateague Island National Seashore, and on Chincoteague Island.
  • Don’t forget to pick up a Junior Ranger booklet for the kids, or download one here, to learn more about the seashore and receive a badge upon completion.
  • Fee: $25/vehicle-$20/motorcycle-$15 on foot
  • Accessibility: Stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Parking included with admission fee
  • Restrooms at Visitors Center and at camping and beach areas
  • Location: Assateague Island National Seashore are located in both the Virginia and Maryland side

READ MORE: Read our Guide to visiting Chincoteague Island here

Shenandoah National Park

Just a couple of hours drive from Washington DC is Shenandoah National Park. Shenandoah is the perfect weekend getaway for some outdoor adventures.

  • There are quite a few kid friendly trails at Shenandoah, and one of our faves is the Stony Man trail. This 1.6 mile moderate hike goes up a steady uphill grade, but is totally doable with kids.
  • Just make sure to give them some time to make it up, and pack lots of snacks. Once you do make it up, you are greeted with one of the most amazing views at Shenandoah!
best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area
  • Another kid friendly hike with views is the Upper Hawksbill Trail. This 2.1 mile trail is an easy one for the kids. You can even take a jogger stroller as it is fairly flat and wide. The upper hawksbill trail takes you to the highest peak at Shenandoah with the most amazing mountain views. 
  • One of the easiest trail for all levels is probably the Limberlost trail as it is mostly flat and is an easy 1.3 mile hike through the forest. This trail is fully accessible and is a great place for a nature walk while admiring the wildlife in the area.
  • Make sure to pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the Visitors Center, or download one here, so the kids can learn more about the park.
  • Fee: $30/vehicle-$25/motorcycle-$15 on foot
  • Accessibility: Some trails are stroller and wheelchair accessible
  • Parking on side of the road by the trailheads
  • Restrooms located at the Visitors Center, and at Skyland and Big Meadows resort
  • Location: There are many entrances to Shenandoah NP, we usually enter through the Front Royal entrance 21073 Skyline Dr. Front Royal, VA 22630

READ MORE: Guide to visiting Shenandoah with kids

best kid friendly trails in the Washington DC area

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