The best walks and hikes around Kemp Mill
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Hikes around Kemp Mill Maryland explore a landscape of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and river valleys. The area is defined by its access to extensive park systems, including the Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park and Wheaton Regional Park. Trails follow the Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River, offering a mix of paved and natural surfaces suitable for hiking.
Best hiking trails around Kemp Mill
- The most popular hiking route is Valley Trail Loop — Rock Creek Park, a 11.0 mile (17.6 km) trail that takes about 4 hours 40 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows paths through the extensive woodlands of Rock Creek Park.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Japanese Tea House & Pine Lake loop — Wheaton Regional Park, an easy 2.9 mile (4.6 km) path. The trail features mostly flat terrain around Pine Lake and through the gardens.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Rock Creek – Valley Trail loop from Silver Spring, a 5.7 mile (9.2 km) trail leading through Rock Creek's forested areas, often completed in about 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Kemp Mill is defined by its mix of riverside paths, forested trails, and routes within large regional parks. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to longer, more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Kemp Mill are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Kemp Mill's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
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22
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4.07km
01:07
60m
60m
Embark on the easy Western Ridge and Valley Trail Loop, a pleasant hike covering 2.5 miles (4.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 207 feet (63 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 6 minutes, making it ideal for a quick nature escape. As you hike, you'll find yourself immersed in lush woodlands, experiencing varied terrain that shifts from smoother sections to rocky patches. Keep an eye out for serene views of Rock Creek, especially as you approach the Rapids Bridge, and listen for the sounds of various bird species. The trail offers a refreshing natural atmosphere right within Rock Creek Park.
This trail is accessible throughout the year, offering a consistent outdoor option whenever you visit. If you plan to hike during winter, be aware that conditions can become slippery, so wear appropriate footwear. Navigation can sometimes be tricky due to inconsistent signage; it's a good idea to bring a GPS device or a map to stay on track. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on this route, making it a great choice for pet owners.
The Western Ridge and Valley Trail Loop provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature inside Washington D.C.'s Rock Creek Park. You might spot local wildlife like deer and various bird species along the way. The scenery transforms beautifully with the seasons, becoming particularly vibrant with blooming flowers in spring and rich, changing leaves in the fall. This route serves as a convenient and accessible escape into the natural world.
6
hikers
11.0km
02:57
120m
130m
Embark on the Wheaton Regional Park Inner Loop, a moderate hike spanning 6.8 miles (11.0 km) with an elevation gain of 393 feet (120 metres). This route offers a peaceful escape as it winds through a mix of shaded wooded areas and open meadows. You can expect varied and picturesque scenery, including views of the scenic Pine Lake, a central feature of the park. The trail provides a refreshing outdoor experience, typically taking around 2 hours and 56 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to Wheaton Regional Park is straightforward, as it is a popular destination in Silver Spring, Maryland. You will generally find ample parking available, making access to the park's amenities quite easy. There are no specific warnings about road closures or permits required for this hike, allowing for spontaneous trips. Consider starting your hike in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds on the trail.
Wheaton Regional Park itself is a significant green space in Silver Spring, Maryland, known for its diverse attractions beyond just hiking. While on the trail, you might spot local wildlife such as various bird species and deer, adding to the natural charm. The park's extensive offerings make it a great place to spend a full day, combining your hike with other recreational activities available nearby.
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1
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2.14km
00:34
20m
20m
Hike the easy 1.3-mile MLK Jr. Heart Smart Trail, a hard-surface loop around a pond in Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Park.
11.6km
03:02
80m
110m
Hike the 7.2-mile Matthew Henson Trail through a scenic greenway with elevated boardwalks and charming bridges in Maryland.
5.31km
01:24
50m
40m
Hike the easy 3.3-mile Northwest Branch Trail in Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park, featuring sylvan scenery and river views.
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Tips from the Community
A small river flows through the park, which is also a nature reserve. Beautiful nature, many hiking and cycling trails meander through the valley.
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I suppose this little creek is to thank for the existence of the nearby Rock Creek Park and Piney Branch Parkway. Eventually Rock Creek flows into the Potomac River, but for now it is a calm, flowing breath of nature cutting straight into the northern part of Washington D.C. You'll find lots of pretty forested trails in the park, usually meandering close to the creek.
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This area offers several spots for fishing, picnicking, or just enjoying the surroundings. The lake is regularly stocked with fish for fishing, but make sure you have the proper fishing license to do so.
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Great spot for frisbee and other games with the kids as long as the mini train isn't running!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there dog-friendly hiking trails in the Kemp Mill area?
Yes, most trails in the park systems around Kemp Mill are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. The extensive network within Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park and Wheaton Regional Park offers plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore the woodlands.
Can I find any waterfalls on hikes near Kemp Mill?
Yes, there is a notable small waterfall in the area. You can find it along the Rachel Carson Greenway Trail, south of the historic Burnt Mills Dam. This section of the trail, known as the "Torrent and Gorge," features a rocky gorge where the waterfall is located.
What are the best options for easy, family-friendly hikes?
The area is great for family outings. Sligo Creek Stream Valley Park is a popular choice, offering paved trails that are perfect for strollers and little legs, plus numerous playgrounds. For a more nature-focused but still easy walk, the trails within Wheaton Regional Park, especially around the Brookside Gardens and Nature Center, are ideal.
Where can I park to access the Northwest Branch Trail?
There are several access points with parking for the Northwest Branch Trail. A convenient and popular spot is the Burnt Mills East Special Park, located off Columbia Pike (US 29). This park provides direct access to the trails and has a dedicated parking area.
Are there any paved trails suitable for hiking near Kemp Mill?
Yes, if you prefer a paved surface, the Sligo Creek Trail, which runs through Sligo Creek Stream Valley Park, is an excellent option. It's a multi-use path that winds through a wooded park setting. Sections of the Northwest Branch Trail are also paved, offering a smoother hiking experience.
How difficult are the hiking trails around Kemp Mill?
The trails offer a good variety of difficulty levels. You'll find many easy, relatively flat paths, especially within Wheaton Regional Park and along the paved sections of Sligo Creek. For a more challenging hike, the Rachel Carson Greenway Trail offers a more rugged, natural surface with some elevation changes and rocky sections, particularly through the gorge area.
What are the trail conditions typically like?
Trail conditions vary. Paved trails like the Sligo Creek Trail are generally clear and accessible year-round. Natural surface trails, such as the Rachel Carson Greenway and parts of the Northwest Branch Trail, can become muddy and slippery after rain. These trails are mostly dirt paths with some rocky areas and tree roots.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, there are several loop trails. For an easy, short loop, consider the Rock Creek loop from Chevy Chase Section Five. Many of the trail networks in the larger parks, like Wheaton Regional Park and Rock Creek Park, allow you to create your own loops by combining different trail segments.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Kemp Mill?
The trails in this region are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the surprising amount of nature so close to an urban area, the well-maintained park systems, and the variety of trails available, from peaceful riverside walks to more rugged woodland paths.
How many hiking trails are there around Kemp Mill?
There are over 40 designated hiking routes in and around Kemp Mill available on komoot. This includes a wide range of options, from short walks in local parks to longer treks through the extensive Northwest Branch and Rock Creek park systems.
What is the Rachel Carson Greenway Trail like?
The Rachel Carson Greenway Trail is a natural-surface trail that runs parallel to the Northwest Branch creek, offering a more rustic and challenging experience than the main Northwest Branch Trail. It's exclusively for hikers and takes you through dense forest with some rocky terrain, providing a more secluded feel.
Are there any historically significant trails in the area?
Yes, The Underground Railroad Experience Trail offers a unique historical hike. Located a short drive from Kemp Mill in Sandy Spring, this trail follows a route used by freedom seekers and includes interpretive signs that bring the history of the Underground Railroad to life.
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