The best family-friendly hikes and walks around College Park
4.7
(45)
551
hikers
53
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around College Park, Maryland, traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, woodlands, and waterways, including the Anacostia River and its tributaries. The region features an extensive network of both paved and unpaved paths, offering varied scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Elevations are generally low, with most routes featuring gentle gradients suitable for families. This interconnected trail system provides accessible options for exploring natural areas and urban green spaces.
Best family friendly hiking trails around College Park
- The…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
3
hikers
12.0km
03:03
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8.24km
02:05
10m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
1
hikers
13.6km
03:26
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.60km
01:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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
0
0
Berwyn Heights Park offers the public a water refill station, restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It's a great spot to refresh yourself along your ride and maybe take a break. The park is open every day of the week from dawn until dusk and is not a huge park but has enough amenities to make it a great community green space.
0
0
The Indian Creek Trail, spanning 1.5 miles through Prince George's County, is an asphalt trail open to biking, skating, horseback riding, walking, and wheelchair access. It serves as a link between Berwyn Heights and Lake Artemesia, offering a shaded route through the woods. Starting at the Indian Creek Trail, follow the Indian Creek, a river that is visible from the trail, providing relaxing scenery.
0
0
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.
0
0
It’s really a skateboard track, but I was really tempted to test it with my bike
1
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in College Park?
College Park offers a great selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 9 routes specifically chosen for families, with 6 of them being easy and 3 moderate, ensuring options for various ages and abilities.
Are there any easy, short hikes suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for families with younger children or those looking for a shorter outing, the Lake Artemesia loop from College Park is an excellent choice. It's an easy 5.7 km (about 1.5 hours) route that encircles the scenic Lake Artemesia, offering beautiful views and a flat path.
What are some popular longer family hikes in the area?
For families seeking a longer adventure, the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail is a moderate 12 km route that follows an old trolley line, blending urban, residential, and natural scenery. Another great option is the Paint Branch Trail, which is 13.5 km and follows the Paint Branch stream through woodlands and parks.
Are there any circular routes for families?
Absolutely! The Lake Artemesia loop from College Park is a fantastic circular route, perfect for families. It allows you to explore the lake and its surroundings without retracing your steps. Another slightly longer option is the Lake Artemesia – Lake Artemesia loop from College Park, which is 7.8 km.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on these trails?
The trails around College Park often feature diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter woodlands, stream valleys, and scenic waterways like the Anacostia River and its tributaries. Many routes, such as those around Lake Artemesia, offer opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying lakeside views.
Are the family-friendly trails in College Park suitable for strollers?
Many sections of the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, which includes trails like the Lake Artemesia Trail and parts of the Northeast Branch Trail, are paved and generally flat, making them suitable for strollers. However, it's always a good idea to check the specific trail conditions before heading out, as some paths might have unpaved sections.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
Most trails in the College Park area, especially those within the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, are dog-friendly. Dogs are generally welcome on a leash. Always remember to bring water for your pet and clean up after them to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can find interesting spots. The Lake Artemesia area itself is a significant natural attraction. For more general attractions and parks in the area, you can explore the city's official resources at collegeparkmd.gov/attractions and collegeparkmd.gov/243/Parks-Playgrounds.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in College Park?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in College Park, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the beautiful natural settings, and the variety of options suitable for families, highlighting the well-maintained paths and scenic views, especially around the lakes and streams.
When is the best time of year to go hiking with family in College Park?
College Park offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring brings blooming flora and mild temperatures, while fall showcases beautiful foliage, making it a particularly scenic time for family walks. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are best, and winter offers crisp, quiet trails, though some paths might be less maintained.
Are there trails that offer a mix of nature and urban exploration?
Yes, trails like the Northeast Branch Trail and the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail provide a unique blend of natural scenery and glimpses of urban life. The Northeast Branch Trail, for instance, passes by the College Park Airport and through parts of the Discovery District, offering varied sights along the way.
Most popular routes around College Park
Most popular attractions around College Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
