Treks / Cities
Hikes and treks near Washington, D.C.
2 routes are within reach of Washington, D.C.: 2 day hikes. The gentlest is McAfee Knob (moderate); the toughest is Old Rag (demanding, 800 m of climbing). The highest point is 1,001 m on Old Rag.
Compare the routes
| Route | Type | Distance | Days | Highest point | Difficulty | Best time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McAfee Knob | Day hike | 13 km | 1 | 960 m | Moderate | All year |
| Old Rag | Day hike | 15 km | 1 | 1,001 m | Demanding | All year |
The routes in detail
Day hike
USA (Virginia) · near Roanoke
McAfee Knob
The most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail, a rock ledge jutting out over the Catawba Valley.
≈ 13 km
960 m high
Day hike
USA (Virginia) · near Washington, D.C.
Old Rag
A granite rock scramble in Shenandoah National Park, a favourite day out from Washington, D.C.
≈ 15 km
1,001 m high
Before you go
- Check if you're fit enough with the two-minute readiness quiz.
- Travel insurance for trekking: altitude limits and what rescue really costs.
- Packing list and the gear budget calculator.
- US hiking permit lotteries explained.
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