The best walks and hikes around Berwyn Heights
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Hiking trails around Berwyn Heights are integrated into extensive trail systems, providing access to several natural features and parks. The region is characterized by lush greenery, stream valleys, and interconnected paths, including the Anacostia Tributary Trail System. Notable natural areas like Lake Artemesia, Indian Creek, and Greenbelt Park offer diverse environments for outdoor activities. These areas feature a mix of paved and unpaved trails, often shaded, suitable for various hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Berwyn Heights
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 21, 2026
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hikers
12.0km
03:03
30m
30m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail, a route that spans 7.5 miles (12.0 km) and features a gentle 98 feet (30 metres) of elevation…
8.24km
02:05
10m
20m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Northeast Branch Trail, a 5.1-mile (8.2 km) route that offers pleasant views as it follows the levee of the Anacostia River. You will…
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13
hikers
8.74km
02:18
80m
80m
Hike the 5.4-mile Perimeter Trail Loop in Greenbelt Park, a moderate route with 250 feet of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 18 minu
6
hikers
2.99km
00:46
10m
10m
Hike the easy 1.9-mile Greenbelt Lake Trail loop in Buddy Attick Lake Park, offering scenic lake views and a peaceful nature setting.
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hikers
2.11km
00:34
20m
20m
Hike the easy 1.3-mile Azalea Trail in Greenbelt Park, a quick 33-minute loop with 63 feet of elevation gain.
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Popular around Berwyn Heights
Tips from the Community
It’s really a skateboard track, but I was really tempted to test it with my bike
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This picturesque lake is the centerpiece of this beautiful park. A dirt and stone path winds its way around the lake and through the woods, with plenty of bird species that inhabit the area. There are nice benches along the shoreline, a perfect place to spend time admiring its tranquil beauty.
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College Park Airport, founded in 1909 as the military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers, is the world's oldest continually operating airport. From here, there is only a fence and a few lights between you and the beginning of the runway to this small airport. If you are lucky, you will catch a plane flying over your head as you walk by.
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Sweetgum is the largest picnic area at Greenbelt Park and is open to the public without reservations. It includes a baseball field, playground equipment, restrooms, and plenty of open space, making it the perfect starting and ending point for hiking the park's beautiful trails.
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This picturesque trail offers a beautiful loop with various alternate routes and signs, allowing you to extend or shorten your hike. As you wander, look for different woodpecker species, robins, and white-tailed deer, which love to graze in the open areas. This trail is a great option for families, as there are plenty of fallen logs over streams for kids to enjoy.
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The Perimeter Trail is the longest route among the four trails in Greenbelt Park, encircling the entire park perimeter, offering a serene and picturesque hike. As you follow this trail, you'll come across the park's charming picnic areas at the northern end, where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings. On the southern end, you can stroll through the park's inviting campground and stop at the ranger station, which offers trail maps, information, a water station and restrooms.
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The Dogwood Trail is a 1.5-mile loop through the forest that ends right back on the Perimeter Trail. The beauty of the trees and the ample shade makes it a perfect side trail to extend your hike, especially on a hot day. There are nice benches along the way, ideal for a place to sit and enjoy the tranquility of the woods.
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Buddy Attick Lake Park offers a flat trail encircling the Greenbelt Lake, giving visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife such as great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. The park features a playground, a recycling center, restrooms, and well-maintained facilities. This park is a popular spot for watching fireworks on the Fourth of July.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking trails can I expect around Berwyn Heights?
Berwyn Heights is integrated into extensive trail systems, including the Anacostia Tributary Trail System. You'll find a mix of paved and unpaved paths, often shaded, running through lush greenery and stream valleys. The trails connect various natural areas like Lake Artemesia, Indian Creek, and Greenbelt Park, offering diverse environments for outdoor activities.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking options in the area?
Yes, Berwyn Heights offers many easy and family-friendly trails. For instance, the Dogwood Trail junction – Greenbelt Park loop from Berwyn Heights is an easy 4.1-mile path, perfect for a gentle exploration. Another great option is the Indian Creek Trail – Lake Artemesia loop from Berwyn, which is 2.9 miles and leads through pleasant natural areas.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Berwyn Heights?
Many trails in the Berwyn Heights area are dog-friendly, especially those within the Anacostia Tributary Trail System and Greenbelt Park. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the natural beauty for all visitors. Specific regulations might apply in certain park sections, so it's good to check local signage.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for while hiking?
The region is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. You can explore the scenic Lake Artemesia, which is part of the Anacostia Trails system and offers birding opportunities. The Indian Creek Trail runs alongside natural areas, and historically, the banks of Indian Creek were home to one of the largest prehistoric sites on the East Coast. Greenbelt Park also features trails like the Azalea Trail, known for its seasonal blooms.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, several popular routes in the area are circular. The Perimeter Trail loop — Greenbelt Park is a moderate 5.4-mile loop. For an easier option, consider the Azalea Trail loop — Greenbelt Park, which is about 1.3 miles. The Greenbelt Lake Trail loop — Buddy Attick Lake Park is another easy, scenic loop around a lake.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Berwyn Heights?
Berwyn Heights offers pleasant hiking experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and fall are particularly popular due to mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer hikes are enjoyable thanks to the many shaded trails, while winter can offer a peaceful, serene experience, though some paths might be muddy or icy after precipitation.
How many hiking trails are available around Berwyn Heights?
There are over 25 hiking routes available around Berwyn Heights, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. The majority of these are easy, with a good selection of moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points for trails in the Berwyn Heights area, particularly at larger parks like Greenbelt Park and Lake Artemesia. Specific parking details can often be found on individual park websites or trail descriptions.
Can I reach the hiking trails using public transport?
Many areas around Berwyn Heights, including parts of the Anacostia Tributary Trail System and access points to Lake Artemesia and Greenbelt Park, are accessible via public transportation. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules for the most convenient access points to your chosen trailhead.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Berwyn Heights?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Berwyn Heights, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the interconnected trail systems, the lush, shaded environments, and the accessibility to diverse natural features like lakes and stream valleys. The variety of easy to moderate trails also makes it a favorite for different skill levels.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the hiking trails in Berwyn Heights?
While Berwyn Heights itself is a residential area, there are dining options in nearby College Park and Greenbelt. You can find cafes and restaurants a short drive from the main trail systems, offering places to refuel before or after your hike.
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