PDA

View Full Version : Winter hiking near DC area?



eliwho
12-25-2007, 09:05 AM
Hi, all. I'm new to this website and found it via Google -- hope someone can help answer my question:

My parents are coming to visit for New Year's, and I'd love to take them out on a winter hike during the day somewhere in the DC area. (We are a big hiking family, and it will help burn some calories in advance of the big dinner we have planned!) In particular, I'm looking for:[li]Within an 1 to 1.5 hours of the DC area by car.
[li]No more than 3-4 miles or so, total.
[li]Generally easy-to-moderate terrain; some rocks/scrambling is fine. (The parents are fairly experienced casual hikers.) Nothing that would require serious climbing/special equipment/etc.
[li]Something clearly marked! It's never fun guessing whether you're still on the trail or not.
[li]Really great views! Particularly, something that might be nice in winter.
[li]Ideally, a loop trail -- out-and-back is not a disqualifier, but I really think loops are the best.
[li]Something you've done! You're welcome to point me to helpful reference materials online, but personal recommendations are especially appreciated.That's pretty much it. Any suggestions would really be appreciated. I promise to come back and report on our experience!

Thanks in advance!
- Eli

natchez
12-25-2007, 02:32 PM
Eli welcome to the forum, I hope you will like it here :)

I am sorry I am unable to give any advise from experience but hope another member here might be doing so, and if not, I will start searching the net for you :)

bdavison
12-27-2007, 04:17 AM
Here is a link to all the hikes in that area.
http://www.localhikes.com/MSA/MSA_8872.asp

Me personally, Id look for a trail around the Potomac.