Travel

45 DC Bikes and Hikes: Western Ridge Creek Loop Trail

DC hiking at its finest.

Photograph via CQ Roll Call/Newscom.

Western Ridge Creek Loop Trail, Northwest DC Hiking

Distance: 4.2 miles (starts at Nature Center)

Strolling through quiet, densely forested Rock Creek Park, it’s hard to believe you’re in the heart of the District. For an easy 4.2-mile walk, start at the Nature Center and follow the green-blazed Western Ridge Trail south past the equitation fields and downhill to the intersection of Beach Drive and Blagden Avenue. Turn north on the aptly named Rock Creek Trail and take a break to enjoy the sound of the water flowing over the rocks. As you approach Military Road, go west and hike uphill to visit the equine residents of the Horse Center, adjacent to the parking area of the Nature Center. For more, see nps.gov/rocr.

Find more DC biking trails and hikes.