When you’re ready to get outside with your kids, we have hiking trails for you. These hikes for kids are short and sweet, all under 2 miles round-trip. Perfect for little legs, these trails are packed with fun, featuring wooden boardwalks, rock scrambles, native wildlife, and water views. Let’s hit NoVA’s trails!
Bears Den Overlook
Get ready for an adventure with the Bears Den Overlook hike in Loudoun County on the Appalachian Trail. This 1.9-mile round-trip trek rewards adventurers-in-training with a fun rock scramble and breathtaking views across the Shenandoah Valley from a rocky perch. A west-facing viewpoint makes this the perfect spot to catch a stunning sunset. Route 7 at Blue Ridge Mountain Rd., Bluemont
Neabsco Creek Boardwalk
From Rippon Landing Park, embark on a family hike along the Neabsco Creek Boardwalk. This 10-foot-wide elevated boardwalk winds through scenic wetlands, leading to a two-story observation deck. Enjoy a 1.7-mile round-trip adventure and keep your eyes open for native wildlife. You might see beavers, herons, turtles, and egrets. Post-hike, treat the kids to slides and climbing structures at Rippon Landing Park. 15125 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge
Bay View Trail
At Mason Neck State Park, the Bay View Trail is a family favorite, winding through lush wetlands, wooded forest, and sandy shores along Belmont Bay. This easy 1-mile loop hike offers plenty of shade and features a self-guided tour booklet at the trailhead, showcasing freshwater marshes and pawpaw trees. Enjoy picturesque views across the lily pad-strewn tidal marsh and a charming wooden boardwalk before reaching a small sandy beach. 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton
Theodore Roosevelt Island
Explore 89-acre Theodore Roosevelt Park on an easy and scenic 1.9-mile loop trail. This hike is a fantastic way to dive into the legacy of the 26th president. Start by crossing a footbridge over the Potomac River, then stroll around the island. An oval-shaped plaza features a 17-foot-tall bronze statue of President Theodore Roosevelt and four 21-foot-tall granite tablets with his most famous quotes. Print out the Junior Ranger activity booklet to earn a Junior Ranger badge (mail in the booklet to collect the badge). Access the park from the northbound lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway
Lake Royal
Tucked away in Fairfax’s Kings Park West suburb is this 36-acre oasis with a peaceful walking path around the lake. Start this 1.9-mile loop hike from the parking lot at Lakeside Park, where you’ll find benches, picnic tables, a playground, and a basketball court for post-hike fun and relaxation. Conveniently, a porta-potty is steps from the lot. In fall, soak in the vibrant foliage reflecting across the lake. 5216 Pommeroy Dr., Fairfax
Feature image of Bears Den Overlook by Mike Ramm
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