The best city hikes and walks in Wheaton Regional Park
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Urban hiking trails in Wheaton Regional Park offer a diverse network of paths across approximately 500 acres of varied terrain. The park features a blend of woodlands, open meadows, and the 5-acre Pine Lake, providing a tranquil natural setting within an urban environment. Trails include both hard-surface paths and natural-surface routes winding through forested areas. The landscape is generally characterized by gentle inclines and rolling paths, with some sections offering steeper grades.
Best urban hiking trails in Wheaton Regional Park
…Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.71km
01:14
40m
20m
Embark on an easy urban hike along the Bethesda Trolley Trail, a paved route that follows an old streetcar line. This 2.9-mile (4.7 km) path offers a smooth surface as…
2
hikers
5.00km
01:20
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
5.20km
01:22
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
13.6km
03:26
20m
20m
Hike the moderate 8.4-mile Paint Branch Trail through wooded areas and wetlands, passing scenic Lake Artemesia in Paint Branch Stream Valley
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Tips from the Community
Almost this entire bike ride was on separate bike pass. First, we followed Sligo Creek downstream, and then we followed Anacostia upstream.. College Park is a perfect place to finish.. anybody would love this bike tour
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Artemesia Lake, a 38-acre man-made lake, is named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who donated the area in 1972. The lake features a fishing dock, and it's common to see people enjoying various water activities.
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Lake Artemesia is a man-made lake, spanning 38 acres and surrounded by Lake Artemesia Park. The lake and the park are named after Artemesia N. Drefs, who in 1972 donated ten lots to the county for preservation as a public green space.
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This 3.5-mile trail is a well-paved multiuse recreational pathway between the Cherry Hill Neighborhood Park and Lake Artemesia. It's an ideal route for spending the day surrounded by nature away from the busy city, where you can enjoy the beauty of Paint Branch along the way. If you want to extend your hike, several trails connect to this path from Lake Artemesia, including the Indian Creek Trail, Lake Artemesia Trail, Northeast Branch Trail, and the Trolley Trail.
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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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The Paint Branch Trail passes by Acredale Community Park. This park is a great spot to stop, grab water, or use the restroom. Visitors are welcome to enjoy a covered picnic shelter, a stream, open fields, and a playground.
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College Park Airport was founded in 1909 as the military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers. Notably, it is the world's oldest continually operating airport. As you ride by College Park Airport, you are separated by a fence and a few lights, but not by much else, from the beginning of the runway to this small airport. If you are lucky, you will catch a plane coming right over your head as you ride by.
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Here, you can take the Paint Branch Trail from its northern end. This paved path connects Lake Artemesia with this point, Cherry Hill, and is well-marked along its route.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Wheaton Regional Park?
Wheaton Regional Park offers a selection of urban hiking trails, with five routes detailed in this guide. These trails provide a great way to explore the park's diverse landscapes, from paved paths to natural-surface woodland trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on urban hikes in Wheaton Regional Park?
The park features a mix of trail surfaces. You'll find over four miles of hard-surface trails, including asphalt and compacted stone, which are generally level but can have rolling or fairly steep inclines. Additionally, there are about five miles of natural-surface trails winding through forested areas, offering a more traditional hiking experience.
Are there any easy urban hiking routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, most of the urban hikes in Wheaton Regional Park are considered easy. For example, the Bethesda Trolley Trail is a gentle 4.7 km path, and the Park Valley Road Bridge loop from Takoma Park offers an easy 5 km walk. These routes are great for a relaxed outing.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see while hiking in Wheaton Regional Park?
Wheaton Regional Park is rich with attractions. You can explore the beautiful Brookside Gardens, a 50-acre botanical garden with various themed sections. The scenic Pine Lake is also a central feature, perfect for relaxing. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Wheaton Miniature Train and Historic Carousel. The Brookside Nature Center offers educational exhibits about local wildlife.
Are there any loop trails for urban hiking in the park?
Yes, several loop trails are available. The Park Valley Road Bridge loop from Takoma Park is a 5 km option, and the Carroll Avenue Bridge – Park Valley Road Bridge loop from Takoma Park offers a slightly shorter 3.9 km loop. These are excellent for circular walks.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Wheaton Regional Park?
The urban hiking trails in Wheaton Regional Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's diverse natural settings, the well-maintained trails, and the variety of attractions that make it a great destination for all ages.
Is Wheaton Regional Park accessible by public transport?
While the guide doesn't specify direct public transport routes to all trailheads, Wheaton Regional Park is generally accessible. For detailed public transport information to the park, it's best to check local transit authority websites or mapping services for current routes and schedules.
Are there longer urban hiking options for more experienced walkers?
For those looking for a longer urban hike, the Paint Branch Trail offers a moderate 13.6 km route. This trail provides an extended opportunity to explore the park's surroundings and connect with other trail systems.
Can I find urban hikes that connect to other trail systems from Wheaton Regional Park?
Yes, Wheaton Regional Park's trail system connects to larger networks such as the Sligo Creek Hiker Biker Trail and the Northwest Branch trail system. This allows for expanded hiking possibilities beyond the immediate park boundaries.
What is the best time of year to go urban hiking in Wheaton Regional Park?
Wheaton Regional Park is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming gardens and fresh greenery, while summer offers lush, shaded woodlands. Autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, and even winter provides a serene, quiet hiking experience. The park's varied trails accommodate different seasonal conditions.
Are there any urban hiking routes that pass by water features?
Yes, several routes in Wheaton Regional Park incorporate the scenic 5-acre Pine Lake. Hiking around Pine Lake offers picturesque views and a tranquil natural setting, making it a popular feature on many trails within the park.
Most popular routes in Wheaton Regional Park
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