The best walks and hikes around Langley Park
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1,340
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Hiking around Langley Park primarily follows paths through local parks and along creek valleys. The terrain is generally flat with some gentle inclines, making many of the walking trails suitable for a range of fitness levels. These routes connect various green spaces, offering accessible nature walks within a suburban and urban environment. The region features creek-side paths, lakeside loops, and trails connecting local parks.
Best hiking trails around Langley Park
- The most popular hiking route is Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail, a 7.5 miles (12.0 km) trail that takes 3 hours to complete. This moderate route features minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Sligo Creek Trail, a moderate 7.5 miles (12.1 km) path. This trail offers scenic urban greenway experiences with woodland views and creek access.
- Local hikers also love the Northwest Branch Trail, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail leading through sylvan scenery and river views, often completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Langley Park is defined by creek-side paths, lakeside loops, and trails connecting local parks. The network of routes offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Langley Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 1,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Langley Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
3
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.
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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13.4km
03:28
100m
10m
The Rachel Carson Greenway Trail offers a varied hiking experience through Montgomery County's natural landscapes, honoring the renowned environmentalist. You'll trek through peaceful wooded sections, past massive boulder outcroppings, and alongside the Hawlings River, with some parts featuring grassy meadows vibrant with wildflowers and butterflies. The trail's mixed terrain, including natural surfaces and some rocky stretches, provides a moderate challenge over its 8.4 miles (13.4 km) with 320 feet (98 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 28 minutes.
When planning your visit, note that this trail is primarily for hikers, with some sections designated exclusively for foot traffic, offering a more secluded experience. Dogs are permitted but must be on a leash. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the greenway's connectivity to various parks and existing trails suggests multiple access points. It's a great option for a half-day outing, and good hiking footwear is recommended for the varied surfaces.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Rachel Carson Greenway Trail is notable for its environmental legacy, named after the author of "Silent Spring." It's part of a larger planned 25-mile greenway designed to connect parks and trails, including the Rachel Carson Conservation Park. The route also touches on cultural sites like Burnt Mills, an early grist mill, and Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park, highlighting the area's Quaker history and connection to the Underground Railroad.
8.24km
02:05
10m
20m
The Northeast Branch Trail offers a wonderfully smooth and scenic escape, following the gentle curves of the Northeast Branch of the Anacostia River. This paved path winds through open fields and community parks, providing continuous river views and a chance to connect with nature. It's a moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) hike with a negligible 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable 2-hour and 4-minute journey perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family outing.
Planning your visit is simple, as there are no permits or fees required to enjoy this accessible trail. While it's a great option any time of year, consider visiting in spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful seasonal colors. The trail is well-integrated into the broader Capital Trails Coalition, offering easy connections to other popular routes like the Lake Artemesia Trail if you're looking to extend your adventure.
Beyond its natural beauty, the trail boasts a unique historical landmark: the College Park Airport, the world's oldest continuously operating airport. This blend of natural scenery and historical intrigue makes the Northeast Branch Trail a standout in the Anacostia Tributary Trail System, providing an easy, high-reward experience for hikers of all abilities, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.
2
hikers
12.1km
03:07
50m
50m
Escape the city bustle on the Sligo Creek Trail, a delightful journey through lush woodlands and riparian habitats. This route largely follows the meandering Sligo Creek, offering peaceful views and a chance to spot local wildlife like deer and herons. While mostly paved, you'll encounter gentle elevation changes and cross several bridges, including the Park Valley Road Bridge, adding variety to the scenery.
This moderate 7.5-mile (12.1 km) hike, with a modest 156 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 6 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone seeking a relaxing outing. Consider visiting on a weekend morning when sections of the parallel Sligo Creek Parkway are closed to vehicles, offering an even more serene experience.
As one of Montgomery County's oldest and most used recreational facilities, the Sligo Creek Trail is a vital part of the larger Anacostia Tributary Trail System. It connects to numerous parks and neighborhoods, providing ample opportunities for family activities and making it a popular choice for those looking for dog friendly trails. Its accessibility and natural beauty make it a regional highlight.
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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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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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College Park Airport was founded in 1909 as the military demonstration area for the Wright Brothers. Notably, it is the world's oldest continually operating airport. As you ride by College Park Airport, you are separated by a fence and a few lights, but not by much else, from the beginning of the runway to this small airport. If you are lucky, you will catch a plane coming right over your head as you ride by.
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The paths in this area are well paved and good for cycling. You will be surprised how quickly you are surrounded by nature, once you leave the busy streets behind. The trails are shared use, so be respectful of other path users.
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This 17-mile-long stream flows from the Anacostia River, descending 30 feet in elevation along the way. This point provides a great view of the stream, making it a good break point.
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In 2019 the Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich cam together with the Silver Spring community members and Federal, State and local officials in November and dedicated this bridge. This bridge stays true to old building looks of many bridges made with natural resources in the area.
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Here the Sligo Creek and the Northwest Branch Stream meet, right on the edge of Kirkwood Park. It is also the boundary line for Hyattsville.
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The original bridge was a low wooden bridge. The MDSHA tore down and remade the bridge in 2015. The MDSHA made sure to keep elements of the old bridge in the modern bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails around Langley Park?
Most parks in the area, such as Rock Creek Park and Paint Branch Stream Valley Park, are dog-friendly, but they generally require dogs to be on a leash. Always check the specific regulations for the park you're visiting before you set out, as rules can vary.
What are the trail conditions like in the Langley Park area?
The trails are a mix of paved paths and natural dirt surfaces. Routes like the Paint Branch Trail are generally well-maintained and follow creek valleys, making them relatively flat. Other trails in parks like Rock Creek may have more varied terrain with some gentle inclines and tree roots.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes available?
Yes, there are many options suitable for families. The Indian Creek Trail – Lake Artemesia loop from Berwyn is a great choice. It's a relatively short and flat walk around a lake, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
How many hiking trails are there around Langley Park?
There are over 80 hiking routes to explore in and around Langley Park. These range from easy, short walks in local parks to more moderate hikes that connect different green spaces throughout the area.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails near Langley Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the trails, which offer a quick escape into nature within a suburban setting. The serene paths along creeks like Rock Creek and Paint Branch are frequently mentioned as highlights.
Are there any circular or loop hikes?
Yes, you can find several loop trails. For a moderately challenging loop with some elevation, consider the Rock Creek loop from Rollingwood. It offers a pleasant circuit through the wooded areas of the park.
What is the terrain like on a typical hike?
Most hikes around Langley Park feature gentle terrain, primarily following flat creek valleys and park paths. Some routes, especially those within Rock Creek Park, include more rolling hills and modest inclines, but you won't encounter any strenuous mountain climbs.
Where can I find hikes with the best views?
The scenery in this area is more about intimate nature than expansive vistas. The beauty lies in the wooded river valleys and tranquil parklands. Trails along Paint Branch and Rock Creek offer lovely, peaceful views of the water and surrounding forest.
Are the trails suitable for trail running?
Many of the trails are excellent for running. The flatter, well-maintained paths along the creek valleys provide long, uninterrupted stretches ideal for a good run. The varied terrain in some parks also offers a good challenge for those looking for more of a workout.
How do I get to the trailheads by public transport?
The Langley Park area is well-serviced by public transportation, including bus routes and the Metro system. Many trailheads, especially those in urban parks like Rock Creek Park and Sligo Creek Park, are accessible from nearby bus stops or are a short walk from a Metro station.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Most of the larger parks, such as Rock Creek Park and Lake Artemesia, have designated parking areas near popular trailheads. However, lots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. For smaller neighborhood trail access points, you may need to find on-street parking.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls?
The hikes in this region follow gentle creeks and streams, so you won't find large, dramatic waterfalls. The routes are better known for their peaceful, flowing waterways and serene woodland scenery rather than cascades.
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