Fairfax, Virginia
Looking for the best hiking in Fairfax? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Fairfax. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.
Top Hiking Spots in and near Fairfax
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Cool Spring Path South Parking, Virginia
Hike Cool Spring Path
4.02 mi / 70 ft gainThe Cool Spring Path South is an old golf course that has been and still is in the process of being returned to its natural state by Shenandoah University. The paved paths from the golf course make this an easy hike for anyone. For those who may be in a wheelchair, this loop should be fully acces...Read more -
Marshall, Virginia
Hike to the Piedmont Overlook
5.00.61 mi / 400 ft gainIn just a .61 mile trail, Piedmont Overlook has so much to offer in terms of views and although it is fairly steep, anyone can do it! After arriving at Sky Meadows State Park start heading up to the white park office building, this is where the trail begins. To get to the trail head follow Bosto...Read more -
Sky Meadows State Park, Virginia
Camp at Sky Meadows State Park
5.02 miCamping at Sky Meadows State Park is a great location to backpack with young kids or if you are new to backpacking. The campground has 18 primitive walk-in campsites located 1.03 miles from the overnight parking lot at the park entrance. Reservations can be made online. After checking-in and park...Read more -
Boyce, Virginia
Trail Run the AT in the G.R. Thompson
7 mi / 900 ft gainTake Fire Trail Road and start your run at the parking area (labeled in the map). The trail puts you directly onto the AT, where you will turn right (southbound) to start the run (or hike). You'll stay on the AT for roughly 3.5 miles down to the Trillium Trail Parking area. At that point, turn ar...Read more -
Knoxville, Maryland
Weverton Cliffs via Appalachian Trail
4.91.9 mi / 866 ft gainThe trailhead is located right off Weverton Cliff's Road in Knoxville, Maryland. Park at a Park and Ride on the right side of the road, then walk right out of the parking lot down Weverton Cliff's Road until you see the white blazes of the Appalachian Trail. Follow that trail for 1.5 miles along ...Read more -
Purcellville, Virginia
Potomac Wayside Park
4.00.25 mi / 75 ft gainThis is a small park along route 340 in Purcellville, Virginia near Harper's Ferry. After you have parked, look for the park sign which will be a few feet behind you. There is a trail that will take you down to the bottom of the waterfall and eventually to the Potomac River. There is also a trail...Read more -
Front Royal, Virginia
Snowshoe the AT in G.R. Thompson
3 miThe G.R. Thompson is a piece of public land in Linden, VA, thats primarily used by hunters. The Appalachian Trail runs right through this section and visiting during a fresh snowfall can make for a great adventure. Only 60 minutes drive from greater Washington DC area, this is an easy adventure! ...Read more -
Elkridge, Maryland
Hike the Cascade Falls and Rootball Loop Trail
4.72.4 mi / 285 ft gainPark on the shoulder of Landing Drive (see map) to access the trailhead. This trail is open April-September. Dogs allowed on leash.Read more -
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Maryland Heights via Harpers Ferry
4.74.53 mi / 1191 ft gainParking and trail head: Park at the Harpers Ferry Visitors Center for $10 (171 Shoreline Dr, Bolivar, WV 25425) and take the shuttle a mile and a half to lower town (free). Walk straight from the shuttle to the large bridge. Cross the bridge and take a left on the C&O Canal trail. You will ...Read more -
Knoxville, Maryland
Maryland Heights via Overlook Cliffs
4.82.88 mi / 1056 ft gainMaryland Heights is at the convergence of Maryland, West Virginia and Virginia, as well as the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. The Appalachian Trail and C&O Canal Towpath are also easily accessible from the trailhead parking lot. The parking lot holds about 16 cars and is between Locks 33 and...Read more -
Knoxville, Maryland
Maryland Heights Trail Loop
4.94 mi / 1647 ft gainLearn Civil War history as you hike through forts and read signs about the war. Enjoy beautiful lookouts, including one with a great view of Harpers Ferry. The 5.3 mile hike is relatively easy and offers an interesting opportunity to learn history in one of the most important historical areas i...Read more -
Elkridge, Maryland
Cascade Falls Loop
3.02.31 mi / 381 ft gainThis hike is a great place to escape the city feel of Baltimore and disappear into the wilderness. Enter through the Avalon Area entrance. There is a cash fee to enter the park. Once you pass the front gate continue past the initial picnic area. Continue through the park to the Orange Grove Area...Read more -
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Weverton Cliffs Overlook from Harpers Ferry
5.08.71 mi / 1178 ft gainParking and trail head: Park at the Harpers Ferry Visitors Center for $10 (171 Shoreline Dr, Bolivar, WV 25425) and take the shuttle a mile and a half to lower town (free). Walk straight from the shuttle to the large bridge. Cross the bridge to hop on the C&O canal trail. This is the point ...Read more -
Eldersburg, Maryland
Mineral Hill Trail
4.02.04 mi / 282 ft gainMineral Hill Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Finksburg, Maryland.Read more -
Owings Mills, Maryland
Serpentine Trail
4.52.39 mi / 226 ft gainPark in the area off of Deer Park road to access the trail. Dogs are welcome on leash. Trail can get muddy in the spring, and there are some stream crossings.Read more -
South River, Virginia
Hike to Compton Peak
5.0This unique hike on the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park is 2.4 miles round trip with an 835' elevation gain, and leads you to two viewpoints as well as a cool rock outcrop.Access this hike from the Compton Gap parking area (elevation 2,145') on the Skyline Drive at Mile 10.4. Cross ...Read more