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Deep Creek Lake (Image by Kris Maria)
States neighboring the nation’s capital have opportunities for gorgeous outdoorsy weekend road trips.
Tired of that daily grind and needing an escape? Whether you’re looking to trek deep into the wilderness or just relax amongst nature, there are plenty of incredible places within driving distance of Washington, D.C., to spend an outdoorsy weekend.
As a resident of Northern Virginia, I’ve rounded up 7 of my favorite outdoorsy getaways from the D.C. area and what you should do while there. These destinations span Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Maryland, and are all within a three-hour drive — perfect for day trips or weekend adventures. Not too bad, right!?
Image by Kris Maria
Front Royal, Virginia
Driving distance from D.C.: 1 hour
A gateway town to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, Front Royal is one of the best (and closest) getaways for residents of the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia). Front Royal is home to the Northern-most entrance to Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive, and it is conveniently situated among other great parks like George Washington National Forest and Shenandoah River State Park (to name a few).
I’d recommend this trip in any season, as there are plenty of outdoor activities all year round. Hiking is a constant, with several shorter/easier hikes for all ages (e.g., North Marshall Mountain and Compton Peak Trails in Shenandoah National Park). A visit to Skyline Caverns is a must for anyone. This is one of the only places in the world where you can see anthodite formations.
Image by Kris Maria
You may also enjoy floating the Shenandoah River. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, or inflatable tubes from Front Royal Outfitters. Stop at Spelunkers in town for a cavern burger and a shake!
Image by Kris Maria
Happy Valley & Raystown Lake, Pennsylvania
Driving Distance from D.C.: 3 hours
Of all the getaways on this list, this destination is probably the most underrated. There is so much more to the area than Penn State!
Two of my favorite state parks right outside State College are Bald Eagle State Park and Black Moshannon State Park. There are several gentle hiking trails in both. I strongly suggest seeing Pennsylvania’s largest bog in Black Moshannon State Park and the largest recorded Swamp White Oak tree in Pennsylvania in Bald Eagle State Park. The Nature Inn, located right in Bald Eagle, offers unique wildlife viewing and is a great spot to base your stay.
Raystown Lake, roughly 30 minutes from State College, is the largest man-made lake in the state. In summer, you can hike, swim, paddle, kayak and even cliff jump in its shimmery blue waters. Catching sunrise or sunset from Hawn’s Overlook is a must.
If you’re more adventurous, several segments of the nearby Standing Stone Trail lead to incredible vistas. You’ll probably have to cross some boulder fields along the way, but that’s all part of the adventure (and why Pennsylvania was nicknamed “Rocksylvania”). I personally love the Throne Room, Thousand Steps Trail to Shorb’s Summit, and Stone Mountain Hawk Watch. Oh, and it’s Amish country, so get some whoopie pies!
Image by Kris Maria
Dolly Sods, West Virginia
Driving Distance from D.C.: 3 hours
The highest plateau east of the Mississippi River, Dolly Sods is known for its remarkable variation in ecosystems and plant life reminiscent of what grows in eastern Canada. Some must-do’s in the area include catching sunrise at Bear Rocks Preserve (no hiking required), hiking or backpacking through Dolly Sods Wilderness (this is for more advanced hikers, as it’s a challenging area to navigate), and exploring Blackwater Falls State Park — one of the most photographed places in West Virginia.
Image by Kris Maria
For those seeking relaxation, it’s hard to beat a cabin in the woods here. If you’re seeking adventure, check out Seneca Rocks (a 900-foot tall jutting rock formation), Spruce Knob (the highest point in the state), Nelson Rocks (a via ferrata), and North Fork Mountain. In the winter, Canaan Valley Resort is a great place to ski or snowboard, and I recommend the mountain towns of Davis and Thomas for yummy Appalachian cuisine.
Image by Kris Maria
Harrisonburg, Virginia
Driving Distance from D.C.: 2 hours
This historic Virginia city in the Shenandoah Valley is definitely a college town (James Madison University), but its location just outside Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest makes it a great outdoor adventure destination! My idea of a perfect road trip here involves hiking Virginia’s most popular (and challenging) mountain — Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park.
Image by Kris Maria
You can also marvel at the Natural Chimneys in Mount Solon (incredible limestone rock formations), and grab craft beers at Brothers Craft, Pale Fire, or the Friendly Fermenter. Natural Chimneys Park and Campground is great for the family with water and electric hookups.
You can also check out quieter George Washington National Forest, where I recommend the Fridley Gap trail. If you do like moderate/difficult trails, the 6.2 mile route is great!
Image by Kris Maria
Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania
Driving Distance from D.C.: 3 hours
This destination features water activities and small-town vibes. Ohiopyle State Park in Southwest Pennsylvania is the southern gateway to the Laurel Highlands. It’s over 20,000 acres and offers several outdoor activities for the whole family like hiking, biking, fishing, camping and white-water rafting! I spent hours exploring the trails and chasing waterfalls (Cucumber Falls, Jonathan Run Falls, and Sugar Run Falls) here.
The Youghiogheny River runs through the center of the park, offering fantastic whitewater rafting. There are several nice spots on the river to relax and take a dip, and a natural water slide for the daring ones. Snag a spot right in the park at the Kentuck campground, known for amazing star gazing. The trail town of Ohiopyle is not to be missed either. Make sure to stop at Falls City Pub for food and brews.
Image by Kris Maria
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Driving Distance from D.C.: 1 hour
Harpers Ferry is the easternmost town in West Virginia, sitting where two rivers and three states meet (West Virginia, Maryland and Virginia). This historic town was also the northern-most point of Confederate territory during the Civil War.
The first rail bridge over the Potomac was built here in 1836, after the ironic end of the ferry in 1824. Visitors to Harpers Ferry can explore several historic sites, hike the Maryland Heights Trail for an amazing overlook of the town, explore the quaint downtown area, and relax at Harpers Ferry Brewing – located right by Harpers Ferry Adventure Center. This getaway is a good family-friendly option and convenient for just a day trip.
Image by Kris Maria
Deep Creek, Maryland
Distance from D.C.: 3 hours
Last but not least, Deep Creek, Maryland, truly has something for everyone. The main attraction is Deep Creek Lake, which offers boating, kayaking, paddling, and sandy beach for relaxing. You can chase waterfalls or hunt for hidden gems in one of the many state parks and forests nearby (e.g., Swallow Falls State Park, Deep Creek Lake State Park, and Garret State Forest).
Wisp Ski Resort has a Mountain Park and Adventure Sports Center in the summer that is great for all ages. It’s also a beautiful spot to catch the sunset. If you are a pizza lover, definitely visit Brenda’s Pizzeria. Moon Shadow’s scratch kitchen is also fantastic with great craft beer options. Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth with some Glazed and Confused donuts!
Kris Maria is a hiking and travel blogger based in the Washington, D.C., area. Visit her website, krismariawanders.com, for more East Coast adventure ideas
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