If you’re looking for the best mountain getaways near DC, there are several options. Washington DC is an incredible city, but everyone needs a break from busy streets and crowds once in a while. Without driving more than 4 hours from the city, you can embark on a river expedition, try your hand at mountain biking, or explore pristine flora and fauna.
Best Mountain Getaways Near DC
Looking for an outdoor weekend mountain getaway near DC? Here are the best vacation spots straight from the experts!
Shenandoah National Park
Distance: 70 miles (about an hour and a half drive)
Activities: Camping, river fun, hiking, biking
Shenandoah National Park is one of the best vacation spots near DC. Escape the capital and find solace with awe inspiring views. From nature strolls and strenuous hikes, to exciting river adventures, you can recharge with the outdoor activities you love.
With a reputation for jaw-dropping views as old as the birth of our country, Shenandoah National Park is the perfect spot to explore. Spend a long weekend taking in the sights of Skyline Drive or embarking on the challenging Old Rag Mountain Loop for an excellent overview of this national park.
After a day on the trails, the best way to cool off is with some fun on the Shenandoah River! If you just want to spend a few hours relaxing, our river tubing and stand up paddleboarding excursions are a great option. Additionally, for full-day and multi-day adventures, you can check out our rafting, kayaking, and canoeing trips. Each trip comes with transportation, watercrafts and everything you need for a river day.
George Washington National Forest
Distance: 141 miles (about a two and a half-hour drive)
Activities: Hiking, biking, camping, scenic drives
The George Washington National Forest is another one of the best mountain getaways near DC. Together with the Jefferson National Forest, this is one of the largest areas of public land in the Eastern United States. Because it spans over 1.8 million acres of land in the Appalachian Mountains, there are endless areas to explore and views to witness. Additionally, if you venture into the wilderness, you may spot black bears, bobcats, bald eagles and otters that call this area their home.
We recommend bringing or renting mountain bikes to explore even more areas here. Kennedy Peak Loop is great for a moderate trail, and North River Gorge + Lookout Mountain is good for a longer, more advanced adventure. You can also enjoy the scenic views by car on the Blue Ridge Parkway or hop on one of the many hikes and trail runs. Once you’ve had your fill of activities, pitch a tent and relax at one of more than 40 developed campgrounds in the area.
Dolly Sods Wilderness Area
Distance: 155 miles (about a three and a half-hour drive)
Activities: Hiking, biking, camping, scenic drives
Dolly Sods Wilderness is a hidden gem to add to your DC mountain getaway bucket list. Take in sweeping vistas, grassy meadows, and expansive sphagnum bogs that create a home for millions of species. The high-altitude plateaus of Dolly Sods Wilderness create a thriving and unique ecosystem of flora and fauna normally found much farther north in Canada.
When visiting Dolly Sods Wilderness, we recommend pitching a tent (you can camp anywhere 300 feet off the forest road) and enjoying a few beautiful hikes. Try Bear Rocks Trail for an easy out-and-back. We also recommend Red Creek Trail for something longer with beautiful waterfalls, and incredible views.
Monongahela National Forest
Distance: 176 miles (about a three and a half-hour drive)
Activities: Hiking, biking, scenic drives, history
This beautiful national forest is nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of eastern West Virginia. Monongahela National Forest is considered one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the United States. That means you can find incredibly unique and varied nature views around this national forest. This remote terrain offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, rock climbing and more.
This national forest is the perfect place to get lost (on purpose) and enjoy a few days of solace. Any trail in the Monongahela National Forest can be a backpacking location. Bring your pack and turn your hike into an overnight trip. With over 800 miles of trails and countless bodies of water, it’s easy to feel like you genuinely escaped to untouched land.
Laurel Highlands Pennsylvania
Distance: 187 miles (about a three and a half-hour drive)
Activities: Hiking, biking, scenic drives, history
Laurel Highlands is full of romantic tree-lined forest pathways. This area of Pennsylvania is best known as the home of the famous architectural feats Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob by the world-renowned Frank Lloyd Wright.
Spend your days touring the astounding Frank Lloyd Wright homes, hiking or biking the Great Allegheny Passage, learning about the historic Lincoln Highway and taking in the tree-top views of the forest. This area is beautiful year-round, but the vibrant fall leaves are an especially jaw-dropping sight to behold.
No matter what direction you head from DC, you will land in a beautiful area to enjoy a long weekend. Front Royal is the premier Shenandoah River outfitter and can help you plan anything from family friendly day trips to relaxing overnight retreats.
