Are you ready to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and explore nature? Look no further than Arlington, where hiking trails abound! With stunning views, lush forests, and plenty of wildlife to discover, these trails offer an escape into wilderness just minutes away from urban living.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for an adventure, there’s something for everyone on these scenic paths. So grab your boots and get ready to hit the trail – we’ve rounded up some of the best hiking spots in Arlington that are sure to satisfy your wanderlust!
What are the best hiking trails in Arlington?
Arlington has a variety of hiking trails that are perfect for all levels of hikers. The trails range from short and easy walks to more difficult hikes that will challenge the most experienced hikers. There are also a number of trails that are great for families with young children, as they are both safe and enjoyable.
The following are some of the best hiking trails in Arlington:
The Ballston Lake Trail is a short walk that takes you around Ballston Lake. This trail is great for beginners, as it is easy to follow and there are plenty of views along the way.
The Custis Trail provides an scenic hike through Virginia’s Fort Arlington National Monument. This trail is moderately challenging, with plenty of hills and curves to keep hikers entertained. It’s also wheelchair accessible, making it great for visitors with mobility issues.
The Mount Vernon Trail leads hikers through historic Mount Vernon Estate. This trail is difficult but well worth the effort, as it offers incredible views of Washington D.C. In addition, this trail is wheelchair accessible and offers views of the Potomac River as you make your way up to George Washington’s famous estate.
How to hike the trails in Arlington
If you’re looking for a scenic hike in Arlington, the trails at Fort Myer offer plenty of options. The trails are well-maintained and offer a great view of the Potomac River from various vantage points.
To get to the trails, take Route 7 south from downtown Arlington. You’ll see the sign for Fort Myer on your left after about 2 miles. The trails are open sunrise to sunset daily. There is a parking lot at Fort Myer, but it can fill quickly on busy days so be sure to plan ahead.
The trails wind through a variety of landscapes, including forest, fields, and wetlands. There are several different trails that intersect at Fort Myer, so you can choose which one suits your taste and fitness level. Some of the more strenuous trails will take around an hour to complete, while others are more moderate and can be finished in half that time.
No matter which trail you choose, make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks because there’s no food available at Fort Myer. If you’re feeling energetic after your hike, stop by one of Arlington’s many charming restaurants for a relaxing meal.
When backpacking in wet weather, it is important to have the best camp shoes possible to keep your feet and ankles safe. There are a variety of shoes on the market that can be great for this type of activity, but some factors to consider when selecting a shoe include fit, waterproofing, and stability.
Fit is key when choosing a camping shoe.
The Hoka One One Torin 2 GTX is a shoe designed for long distance running and hiking. It is also waterproof and breathable, making it great for backpacking in wet weather.
The Salomon X Ultra 3D GTX is another great option for Backpacking in Wet Weather. It features waterproof and durable construction, as well as GORE-TEX membrane technology that helps protect your feet from moisture and debris.
What to bring on a hike
When hiking, always bring a sturdy backpack, water, snacks and a map of the area you plan to hike. Hiking trails can be steep and difficult, so it is important to know where you are going in advance. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes that can handle a variety of surfaces, such as mud and gravel. If there is a chance of rain or snow on your hike, pack an extra layer of clothing just in case!
Hiking tips for beginners
Hiking trails in Arlington offer beginner hikers plenty of opportunities to get acquainted with the sport. The Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Trail, for example, is a short but steep path that winds its way through the city’s southwest section. At just over one mile long, the trail is perfect for first-time hikers who are looking for a moderately challenging walk. More Post Visit.
The Lakeside Trail offers another great beginner hike option. This trailhead is located on Lake Arlington near the University of Texas at Arlington campus, and it’s a scenic 3.5-mile journey that takes you along the shores of the lake. Along the way, you’ll see lots of wildlife—including deer, raccoons, and blue herons—and you may even spot some horses grazing in the meadows along the trail.
If you want to explore some longer trails in Arlington, take a look at the George Bush Presidential Library Trail or the Carter Garden Trail. Both of these trails are more than six miles long and they provide hikers with plenty of opportunities to view beautiful scenery and take in some impressive vistas.
