Best Hiking in the DMV Fall Foliage

There is nothing quite like autumn in the DMV. Crisp morning air, crunching leaves underfoot, and a canopy that transforms into rich shades of gold, orange, and crimson. Fall is hands-down my favorite season of the year, and making time for weekly family hikes is our favorite way to unplug, recharge, and take in the vibrant colors before winter sets in.

Here are the best fall foliage hikes in the DMV for every comfort level, from casual strolls to scenic scrambles:

Great Falls Park, Mclean VA
With over 15 miles of hiking trails, Great Falls Park is a hikers paradise with the bonus of spectacular views of fall foliage and rushing white water. Make a day out of your visit by having lunch at one of their picnic tables and visiting one, or all, of their overlook locations for the best viewpoints of the Potomac River.

Huntley Meadows, Alexandria VA
Want a more laid back nature walk? Visit Huntley Meadow’s beloved 2 mile boardwalk trail! Not only will you be surrounded by trees painted with all the colors of Fall, but you’ll also be in one of the most prime bird-watching locations in the county. This is a Fall hike the whole family can take part in and enjoy!

Potomac Overlook Regional Park, Arlington VA
This park is the best of both worlds for parents and children with over 70 acres of wooded trails to enjoy and plenty of activities for kids along the way! Parents will enjoy the peacefulness of the park while the kids are bound to get excited for the nature center and playground located within the park.

Mason Neck State Park, Lorton VA
Being the only Virginia State Park in Fairfax County, Mason Neck offers a variety of trails with several different views! For those with children or limited mobility, the quarter mile Marsh View Trail will be best suited. For a slightly more moderate hiking experience, explore the 2 mile trail to Kane’s Creek or the popular 1 mile Bay View Trail which combines views of Belmont Bay, marsh, and wooded sections of the park.

Shenandoah National Park, Stanley VA
Escape the hustle and bustle of Northern Virginia to truly see some of the most spectacular fall views. Shenandoah National Park has a 105 mile Skyline Drive, one of the most beautiful roadways in the state, however, the best way to see the beauty of fall within the park is by foot. There are nearly 500 miles of trails for you to explore. A few noteworthy locations within the park are Mary’s Rock (NE section of the park with panoramic views of Thornton Gap) and Old Rag (just outside the park boundary in Sperryville). Old Rag is quite a climb but you will be rewarded at the top with undisturbed 360-degree views!