Day Trips from Alexandria
← All Alexandria day tripsDay Trips from Alexandria: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Alexandria, VA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Alexandria
The Pinnacle Overlook
Holtwood, PA 17532
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Alexandria, rated 4.9 stars by 1,147 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Maurice River Bluffs Preserve
Millville, NJ 08332
Just 2 hrs 53 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 681 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sky Meadows State Park
Delaplane, VA 20144
Just 1 hr 5 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 1,773 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bear Island Potomac Gorge
Potomac, MD 20854
Just 31 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ferncliff Wildlife & Wildflower Preserve
Drumore, PA 17518
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cool Spring Preserve
Charles Town, WV 25414
Just 1 hr 25 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 219 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Trout Run Nature Preserve
Pequea, PA 17565
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mason Neck State Park
Lorton, VA 22079
Just 35 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 1,218 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 604 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tucquan Glen & Pyfer Nature Preserves
Holtwood, PA 17532
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 283 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shenandoah River State Park
Bentonville, VA 22610
Just 1 hr 27 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 1,669 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cascade Falls
MD 21075, USA
Just 60 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 717 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Alexandria
What are the best hiking trails near Alexandria, VA?
The best hikes near Alexandria range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Alexandria?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Alexandria offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Alexandria?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Alexandria are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Alexandria?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Alexandria. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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