Categories: Outdoor Play

Outdoor day destinations less than two hours from Washington, DC

Last year we created a post full of overnight trips for families that was a hit and our post on outdoor fun is being used tons this summer too for obvious reasons. We know that during these times where summer vacations are cancelled and visits from friends and relatives are on hold, you are searching for ways to get out of your house and on an adventure. Maybe you have crossed some state parks and beaches off your list already and you have already visited the great gardens and trails in our area. Now we present you with a post full of day trips that range from an hour and half to forty minutes and once you’re there you can hike, bike, walk and just be outdoors!

-Places under 90 minutes from DC-

Shenandoah Valley
Hike, head to Luray Caverns, horseback at Rocking S Ranch and more

Appalachian Trail
Day hike or multi-day hike

Harpers Ferry
Check out all of the adventures you can do in Harpers Ferry

Front Royal entrance
You can hike and walk with your dog on many trails.

-Places an hour or less from DC-

Frederick, Maryland
Hike, bike, kayak, tube and fish

Cunningham Falls State Park, Maryland
Lake with a sandy beach, trails, fishing and more

Seneca Creek State Park
Cool off in the water, enjoy lunch at a picnic tables or check out the trails

Float down the Potomac
So many options when it comes to getting on the Potomac

Great Falls Park in Virginia & Maryland
Many things to do including hiking and fishing

C&O Canal
184.5 miles

Sugarloaf Mountain
See the hiking map, a few different routes ranging from 1/4 mile to a 7 mile loop

Sunflower fields throughout our area are in bloom and a great way to spend some time outdoors, capturing natures beauty!

Allison

Share
Published by
Allison
Tags: DCva

Recent Posts

Stop Saying “I’ll Plan It Later”, Here’s Why Your Family Vacation Needs to Start Now

Let me guess. You've had a family vacation rattling around in your head for months.…

2 weeks ago

Chasing the Northern Lights: Your Guide to the Aurora Borealis

Few natural spectacles can match the northern lights. Shimmering curtains of green, pink, and violet…

2 weeks ago

{Winter} Staycation: DC-Area Hotels the Whole Family Will Never Want to Leave

Looking for a memorable weekend escape without leaving the DMV? These local hotels offer far…

1 month ago

♫ Music Lessons Your Kids Will LOVE!  Claim Your 50% off Registration Today!

Looking for Fun & Engaging Music Lessons for Your Children? From virtual singing classes to…

2 months ago

My 2025 Travel Recap: A Year of Adventure

As I sit here reflecting on 2025, I'm almost overwhelmed by how much ground I…

2 months ago

The Art of Smart Splurging: Where to Invest (and Where to Save) on Your Family Vacation

I've learned that the secret to an incredible trip isn't about spending the most money,…

3 months ago