The best walks and hikes around College Park
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Hikes around College Park Maryland are characterized by an extensive network of paved and unpaved trails connecting local parks and natural areas. The landscape consists of rolling hills, woodlands, and waterways like the Anacostia River and its tributaries. Many routes center around features such as the 38-acre Lake Artemesia or are located within the nearby Greenbelt National Park.
Best hiking trails around College Park
- The most popular hiking route is Perimeter Trail loop — Greenbelt Park, a 5.4 mile (8.7 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 18 minutes to complete. This moderate hike follows a path through the woodlands of Greenbelt Park.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Paint Branch Trail — Paint Branch Park, a moderate 8.4 mile (13.6 km) path. The route follows the Paint Branch stream, connecting several parks along the way.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Indian Creek Trail – Lake Artemesia loop from Berwyn, a 2.9 mile (4.7 km) trail leading around the lake, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking around College Park is defined by interconnected paved trails, lakeside paths, and woodland routes. The Anacostia Tributary Trail System provides options for various fitness levels, from short, easy walks to longer hikes.
- The routes in College Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore College Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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hikers
12.0km
03:03
30m
30m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail, a route that spans 7.5 miles (12.0 km) and features a gentle 98 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 3 minutes. As you walk, you will experience a pleasant mix of urban and natural settings, passing through residential areas with unique Sears bungalows and vibrant gardens, before finding tranquility among trees and wildflowers, especially near the Paint Branch Stream Valley Park Bridge.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible by public transportation, conveniently located close to the College Park–University of Maryland Metro Station. You will find essential amenities like restrooms and water fountains at various points along the way, including Greenbelt Park and Lake Artemesia, making your hike more comfortable. Consider starting your adventure in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and less foot traffic.
This trail offers a distinctive experience by blending urban convenience with natural beauty, making it a notable feature within the Anacostia Trails Heritage Area. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as turtles and herons, particularly in the more natural sections. The route provides a refreshing escape and a chance to observe the diverse environments of College Park, Riverdale Park, and Hyattsville.
8.24km
02:05
10m
20m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Northeast Branch Trail, a 5.1-mile (8.2 km) route that offers pleasant views as it follows the levee of the Anacostia River. You will experience a predominantly flat and paved path, gaining only 34 feet (10 metres) in elevation over an estimated 2 hours and 4 minutes. The smooth asphalt surface makes for an accessible journey, with underpasses ensuring smooth transitions under main streets. As you hike, you can spot the historic College Park Airport, known as the world's oldest continuously operating airport, adding a unique point of interest to your outdoor adventure. This trail provides a refreshing escape with its riverside scenery and easy-to-navigate terrain.
When planning your visit, you will find the trail is well-maintained, featuring clear mile markers to help you track your progress. The smooth asphalt surface ensures accessibility for most users, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers. With minimal road crossings, thanks to convenient underpasses, your journey remains largely uninterrupted. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the riverside views and the unique landmark along the way. Always check local conditions before heading out to ensure a pleasant experience.
The Northeast Branch Trail is a key component of the larger Anacostia Tributary Trail System, situated in Prince George's County, Maryland. This connection highlights its role within a broader network of green spaces and recreational paths. Its unique feature is the proximity to the College Park Airport, which holds the distinction of being the world's oldest continuously operating airport. This historical landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into aviation history as you enjoy your outdoor activity. The trail's integration into the regional trail system makes it an excellent choice for those looking to explore more of the area's natural and historical offerings.
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5.50km
01:27
40m
60m
Embark on an easy hike along the Little Paint Branch Park and Bike Path, a serene route that winds through varied landscapes. You will follow the Little Paint Branch Stream, enjoying tranquil spots and keeping an eye out for local wildlife. The trail passes through wooded areas with oak, maple, and hickory trees, offering plenty of shade, and in spring, you might spot Virginia bluebells. This pleasant 3.4-mile (5.5 km) journey involves a gentle 133 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete.
Before you head out, be aware that sections near the stream can become muddy and slippery after heavy rainfall, so sturdy hiking boots are a good idea. Dogs are welcome on the trail, making it a great option for a walk with your canine companion. The route is generally accessible, and you can plan your visit around the Greencastle Road parking lot if you wish to reach the pond feature.
This multi-use trail offers a peaceful escape within Paint Branch Stream Valley Park, providing a chance to connect with nature close to urban areas. As you hike, you might observe local wildlife drawn to the stream and wooded sections. The trail also passes through Greencastle Park, which features open grassy areas, playgrounds, and picnic tables, making it a convenient spot for families to extend their outing.
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8.74km
02:18
80m
80m
Hike the 5.4-mile Perimeter Trail Loop in Greenbelt Park, a moderate route with 250 feet of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 18 minu
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2.99km
00:46
10m
10m
Hike the easy 1.9-mile Greenbelt Lake Trail loop in Buddy Attick Lake Park, offering scenic lake views and a peaceful nature setting.
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Tips from the Community
It’s really a skateboard track, but I was really tempted to test it with my bike
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This picturesque lake is the centerpiece of this beautiful park. A dirt and stone path winds its way around the lake and through the woods, with plenty of bird species that inhabit the area. There are nice benches along the shoreline, a perfect place to spend time admiring its tranquil beauty.
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Buddy Attick Lake Park offers a flat trail encircling the Greenbelt Lake, giving visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife such as great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. The park features a playground, a recycling center, restrooms, and well-maintained facilities. This park is a popular spot for watching fireworks on the Fourth of July.
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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 Perimeter Trail is the longest route among the four trails in Greenbelt Park, encircling the entire park perimeter, offering a serene and picturesque hike. As you follow this trail, you'll come across the park's charming picnic areas at the northern end, where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings. On the southern end, you can stroll through the park's inviting campground and stop at the ranger station, which offers trail maps, information, a water station and restrooms.
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The Dogwood Trail is a 1.5-mile loop through the forest that ends right back on the Perimeter Trail. The beauty of the trees and the ample shade makes it a perfect side trail to extend your hike, especially on a hot day. There are nice benches along the way, ideal for a place to sit and enjoy the tranquility of the woods.
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Managed by the National Park Service since 1950, Greenbelt Park is a forested park with paved, unpaved, and boardwalk trails running through it. The park boasts many amenities, including a 5.3-mile hiking trail, Park Central Road for bikers, an equestrian trail, shorter nature trails, numerous campsites, and three picnic areas.
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Buddy Attick Lake Park offers a flat trail encircling the Greenbelt Lake, giving visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife such as great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. The park features a playground, a recycling center, restrooms, and well-maintained facilities. This park is a popular spot for watching fireworks on the Fourth of July.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many easy, beginner-friendly hikes in College Park?
Yes, College Park is great for beginners. The area has over 30 easy-rated trails. A popular choice is the Greenbelt Lake Trail loop — Buddy Attick Lake Park, a gentle walk of about 3 km around a scenic lake.
What are the best options for a family-friendly walk?
For a family outing, the Lake Artemesia Natural Area is an excellent choice. It features easy, paved paths around a 38-acre lake with plenty of spots for picnics and bird watching. The Indian Creek Trail – Lake Artemesia loop from Berwyn is a well-regarded route that's suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around College Park?
Many trails in the College Park area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. The trails within Lake Artemesia Natural Area and Greenbelt Park are popular spots for walking with four-legged friends. Always check specific park regulations before you go.
Are there any circular hiking routes or loops?
Yes, there are several great loop trails. For a shorter, easy walk, the Azalea Trail loop — Greenbelt Park is a pleasant 2 km woodland path. If you're looking for a more substantial hike, the Perimeter Trail loop — Greenbelt Park offers a moderate 8.7 km circuit through the forest.
Where can I find paved trails for walking or running?
The Anacostia Tributary Trail System, which runs through the area, is largely paved and ideal for walking and running. The Paint Branch Trail — Paint Branch Park is a key part of this system, offering a long, paved route that follows the stream and connects several local parks.
What is the Anacostia Tributary Trail System?
It's a fantastic network of over 30 miles of interconnected, mostly paved trails that weave through the region. It connects major parks like Lake Artemesia Natural Area and Greenbelt Park, allowing for long, continuous hikes or bike rides without having to navigate busy streets.
How long is the trail around Lake Artemesia?
The main paved trail directly around Lake Artemesia is approximately 1.3 miles (2.1 km). However, it serves as a central hub connecting to other paths like the Indian Creek and Paint Branch trails, so you can easily extend your walk or hike for many more miles.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in College Park?
The trails here are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paved paths, the peaceful woodland scenery within Greenbelt Park, and the beautiful lakeside views at Lake Artemesia.
Are there any hiking trails with waterfalls?
While the region is characterized by its beautiful streams, creeks, and ponds, there are no significant waterfalls on the main hiking trails. The routes focus more on woodland and lakeside scenery.
What are the parking options for the main trailheads?
Most major trailheads and parks have dedicated parking lots. Lake Artemesia Natural Area and Greenbelt National Park both have ample parking available for visitors. For smaller trail access points, you may need to use street parking where permitted. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends.
Which trails are best for seeing local wildlife?
Lake Artemesia Natural Area is a top spot for wildlife, especially for bird watching, with over 100 species recorded. The quieter, unpaved trails within Greenbelt National Park, such as the Dogwood Trail, also offer good opportunities to see deer, squirrels, and other woodland creatures.
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