Top 3 hikes in the DMV
By Britta Miller
October 6, 2020
The great outdoors - fresh air, beautiful views and peace. Everyone needs an escape, and going outside can be a great way to accomplish that. Since the pandemic probably has everyone feeling a little cooped-up, check out these three nearby hiking spots.
Great Falls Park, Virginia
About 40 minutes from College Park lies Great Falls Park. Stretching along the Potomac River, Great Falls features over 150 species of birds that can be seen throughout the year, according to the park’s website.
Sophomore marketing and operations management and business analytics double major Julia Galsgow took a trip to Great Falls in August.
“One of the nice things about Great Falls is they have so many different trails you could honestly spend an entire day there,” Glasgow said.
She said using a map from the park entrance made navigation much easier, and made it a great time to be with friends and socially distance.
Image Credit: Julia Glasgow
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, Virginia
In Fairfax County, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve offers beautiful views as one of the only nature preserves in the Fairfax County Park Authority system.
Only about 40 minutes from College Park, Scott’s Run is a great place for a weekend day trip to relax.
Junior physics major Danny Escalante visited Scott’s Run in late September, and noted the great length of the hike and the breathtaking views.
The most popular loop is 2.2 miles, but the preserve has many interconnecting trails that spawn over its 384 acres.
“I enjoy hiking because it allows me to spend time in nature and escape the stress of school,” Escalante said.
In Fairfax County, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve offers beautiful views as one of the only nature preserves in the Fairfax County Park Authority system.
Only about 40 minutes from College Park, Scott’s Run is a great place for a weekend day trip to relax.
Junior physics major Danny Escalante visited Scott’s Run in late September, and noted the great length of the hike and the breathtaking views.
The most popular loop is 2.2 miles, but the preserve has many interconnecting trails that spawn over its 384 acres.
“I enjoy hiking because it allows me to spend time in nature and escape the stress of school,” Escalante said.
Image Credit: Danny Escalante
Annapolis Rock, Maryland
Located in Annapolis, about an hour from College Park, is a portion of the Appalachian Trail. While the Appalachian trail runs through multiple states, the Annapolis Rock trail is located in Maryland.
In addition to hiking, you’re also able to camp here free of charge.
Junior information systems and finance double major William Li went to Annapolis Rock in mid-September and was able to capture some of the beauty.
“The rock itself is honestly breathtaking and overlooks miles of Maryland,” Li said.
Located in Annapolis, about an hour from College Park, is a portion of the Appalachian Trail. While the Appalachian trail runs through multiple states, the Annapolis Rock trail is located in Maryland.
In addition to hiking, you’re also able to camp here free of charge.
Junior information systems and finance double major William Li went to Annapolis Rock in mid-September and was able to capture some of the beauty.
“The rock itself is honestly breathtaking and overlooks miles of Maryland,” Li said.
Image Credit: William Li
Image Credit: William Li
Happy hiking terps! Stay active and connect with nature outdoors.