Best Hikes with Kids: Washington DC, The Beltway & Beyond

* A range of easy to challenging hikes for kids of all ages and within a 2-hour drive of the DC area

* Most hikes feature water, rocks, historical sites, natural areas, or parks—all fun to explore!

* Lots of tips and tricks for hiking with kids


Best Hikes with Kids: Washington DC the Beltway & Beyond showcases more than 65 family-friendly hikes in the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area, extending to within a two-hour drive radius and including the eastern ridges of Shenandoah National Park. Longtime environmental educator, hiking guide, and mother of two, Jennifer Chambers introduces families in the DC area to a variety of trail options while also helping them to spend quality time together discovering nature.


Each hike has been chosen for its engaging physical features and landscape along a natural surface trail, in addition to the accessibility of the trailhead for busy families with children of all ages. A selection of trails also accommodates the use of a jogging stroller. Trails range from easy to difficult in order to provide a physical challenge for families whose children are very active or of an age to successfully complete the hike—and have a lot fun!