Needwood Trail
00:33
2.17km
10m
Hiking
Hike the easy 1.3-mile Needwood Trail in Rock Creek Regional Park, enjoying views of Lake Needwood and diverse woodlands.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Lake Needwood
Highlight • Lake
192 m
Rock The Heat 5K
Highlight • Trail
354 m
Lake Needwood Southeast Shore
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
2.17 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
1.21 km
893 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
1.07 km
656 m
199 m
165 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 20 May
31°C
19°C
71 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical terrain and difficulty of the Needwood Trail?
The Needwood Trail primarily features natural surfaces and singletrack paths winding through woodlands. While generally considered easy, some sections can be hilly, and you'll encounter bridges. It's part of a larger network, and some parts of the wider system may present uneven terrain, making them easy/intermediate.
Where can I park and access the trail?
Multiple access points and parking lots are available within Rock Creek Regional Park. The trail connects to other paths, including the paved Rock Creek Hiker-Biker Trail.
Is the Needwood Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trails within Rock Creek Regional Park are generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round. Fall is particularly notable for its vibrant colors. Birdwatching is excellent from fall through early summer. Consider visiting during spring or fall for comfortable temperatures and fewer insects.
Are there any permits or fees required to hike here?
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the Needwood Trail or Rock Creek Regional Park for hiking.
What can I see along the route?
You can enjoy beautiful views of Lake Needwood and meander through adjoining forests. The park's varied habitats provide opportunities to observe wildlife such as geese, deer, and beavers. You'll also pass by the Rock The Heat 5K highlight and the Lake Needwood Southeast Shore.
Does the trail connect to other paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the 1 (Maryland), Rock Creek Hiker/Biker Trail, and Needwood Loop. It's part of a larger network within Rock Creek Regional Park, offering connections to other trails, including the paved Rock Creek Hiker-Biker Trail which extends into Washington D.C.
Is the trail suitable for families with children?
Given its generally easy difficulty and diverse scenery, the Needwood Trail is often described as family-friendly. The wider Rock Creek Regional Park also offers many other recreational activities.
What kind of wildlife might I spot?
The varied habitats around Lake Needwood, including deciduous woods, fields, and meadows, provide opportunities to observe wildlife such as geese, deer, and beavers. It's also a good location for birdwatching.
Is the Needwood Trail a loop?
The specific Komoot tour for the Needwood Trail is not a full loop. However, it is part of a larger network of natural surface trails that encircle Lake Needwood, and a 4.3 km (2.6 miles) section of the Lake Needwood Loop is typically graded as easy and can be completed in about an hour.
What other activities are available in Rock Creek Regional Park?
Rock Creek Regional Park, where the Needwood Trail is located, offers a wide array of recreational activities beyond hiking. These include boating on Lake Needwood, archery, picnicking, and golf, making it a versatile destination for a day out.