With summer fast approaching, an outing to a park or trail is a wonderful way to spend time with friends or family. In this article, a selection of different locations are included, with varying lengths, difficulties and prices for a wide range of options.

Great Falls
A well known set of trails, Great Falls National Park is a classic choice located only 20 minutes from McLean, stretching across the Virginia and Maryland border with nearly 44 miles of trails. We chose to take the River trail on the Virginia side, which had only a few obstacles. Most trails on the Virginia side are quite simple compared to those on the Maryland side, particularly the Billy Goat trails, which consist of more rugged terrain and some rock scrambling. The Maryland side also includes the C&O canal, Olmsted Island, and a museum in the Guest Services Lodge dedicated to the development of the canal itself. On the trails, hikers are greeted by not only a stunning view of the Great Falls waterfalls, but also are often entertained by the numerous kayakers navigating the rapids and rock climbers belaying off the cliffs. Just off of the trails, there are also numerous outcrops and boulders which are great for climbing and for taking a picnic on the trail. Prospective hikers should keep in mind that there is a 20$ fee for parking and entrance if entering the park by car. For cyclists and those walking, there is a 10$ entrance fee.

Theodore Roosevelt Island
Located between Virginia and Washington, D.C., on the Potomac River, Theodore Roosevelt Island is another option nearby, with over two and a half miles of trails, serving as an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The island’s man-made landscape created trails which are more of a walk instead of a hike, but those who complete them have the chance to see the new inhabitants of the island, primarily deer. Hikers are also treated to a mini-history lesson, with the varied stages of the island providing a snapshot of American history featuring a memorial to Theodore Roosevelt and quotes from Roosevelt, the ruins of a mansion built in the 1780s, and the location of an American Civil War Army Base. There is no entrance fee for this location, but it should be noted that parking is limited.

Pimmit Run Trail

As for a more relaxed hike, the Pimmit Run trail goes right through McLean. The trail is accessible from several different points throughout McLean, and is almost eight miles long. It’s great for plenty of different activities including hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. But it should be noted that there are usually obstacles such as fallen trees and rocks in the way of the path. Dogs are welcome, and there are some areas where your pets are allowed to be off leash. The trails run on the narrow side and often have rocks and uneven terrain, before transitioning into sand areas and back again, following the Pimmit Run Stream, and ultimately connecting to the Potomac River. The trail is technically 7.8 miles long, but it depends on which starting location the hike begins at. It also should be recognized that the trail may require stream and road crossings.