The best walks and hikes around New Baltimore
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Hiking around New Baltimore offers access to a variety of protected natural areas, including state forests and regional parks. The region is characterized by a network of trails through preserves, state natural areas, and wooded landscapes. Many routes feature gentle elevation changes, making them suitable for a range of hikers. Situated on Lake St. Clair, the area also provides waterfront parks and trails.
Best hiking trails around New Baltimore
- The most popular hiking route is Leopold’s Preserve Loop, a…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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2.87km
00:48
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60m
Dawson's Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through the Bull Run Mountains Natural Area Preserve in Virginia. This singletrack route winds through a forest rich with hickory and chestnut oak,…
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4.93km
01:16
30m
20m
If you're looking for a tranquil nature walk that feels miles away from the everyday, the Lake Ashby Trail delivers. This easy 3.1-mile (4.9 km) hike, which takes about 1…
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hikers
3.58km
00:57
40m
50m
If you're seeking a pleasant and accessible outdoor escape, the Whitney State Forest Blue Loop Trail delivers a rewarding experience. This easy 2.2-mile (3.6 km) loop takes you through a…
3.63km
00:56
10m
20m
The Broad Run Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through natural surface paths, tracing the scenic Broad Run in Bristow, Virginia. You'll enjoy picturesque views of the stream and navigate…
4.09km
01:02
10m
10m
The Leopold's Preserve Loop offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience, winding through varied terrain that includes grassy paths, gravel sections, and dirt trails, often crossing wetlands on wooden boardwalks.…
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Tips from the Community
Sooo beautiful and peaceful! Water is calm and easy. Great fun, very impressed with the facilities and options. Very busy but plenty of space on the lake so you never feel crowded.
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Leopold’s Preserve is a 380-acre public park with over 7 miles of hiking and running trails. The paths are mostly dirt with some roots, rocks, and bridges along the trails. There are multiple length loops you can create so that you can make your hike as long as you want.
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Leopold’s Preserve is a 380-acre public park with over 7 miles of hiking and running trails. The paths are mostly dirt with some roots, rocks, and bridges along the trails. There are multiple length loops you can create so that you can make your run as long as you want.
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The Bull Run Mountains State Natural Area encompasses nearly 2,500 acres of forests, cliffs, ravines, valleys, and summits. There are miles of trails of varying difficulties, but most of the lower paths are smooth, packed dirt. You can create numerous loops by connecting the various trails on the property.
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The Bull Run Mountains State Natural Area encompasses nearly 2,500 acres of forests, cliffs, ravines, valleys, and summits. There are miles of trails of varying difficulties, but most of the lower paths are smooth, packed dirt. You can create numerous loops by connecting the various trails on the property.
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Lake Brittle is a 77-acre impoundment located in Fauquier County. It was constructed in 1953 as a public fishing lake. It is one of the oldest Department-owned lakes and among the first to be built in Virginia with Dingell-Johnson funds. Dingell-Johnson funds are provided by a federal excise tax on fishing tackle. Lake Brittle is located just east of Warrenton and only thirty miles from the Beltway. The lake’s average depth is about seven feet, and it has a maximum depth of 25 feet near the spillway tower.
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Lake Brittle invites you to take a break and linger. Wonderful!
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Take the kids to the fishing dock. They may not get big fish, but they will love catching the little sunfish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly hiking trails near New Baltimore?
Yes, the area is well-suited for families. Most trails are rated as easy, with gentle elevation changes. For a very accessible walk, locals enjoy the Salt River Nature Preserve, which has trails suitable for strollers. Another great option for an easy outing is the Perimeter Loop — Silver Lake Regional Park, which is a relatively flat path.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many parks and trails in the region are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. Generally, dogs must be kept on a leash. State recreation areas like Bald Mountain State Recreation Area often welcome leashed dogs on their trails. Always check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit before you go.
Are there any challenging hikes in the New Baltimore area?
The terrain immediately around New Baltimore is mostly gentle, with trails typically classified as easy. For a bit more of a challenge, the Green Trail loop — Bull Run Mountains State Natural Area offers some elevation gain. For more rugged and hilly terrain, you might consider visiting Bald Mountain State Recreation Area, which is known for its more varied topography.
What do other hikers think of the trails around New Baltimore?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths through the region's forests and nature preserves.
Are most of the hiking trails loops?
Yes, many of the popular routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Pine Trail loop — Conway Robinson Memorial State Forest is a great circular walk through a forested area.
Which trails offer the best lake or river views?
For excellent water views, the Bridge To Bay Trail is a popular choice, offering scenic vistas along the waterfront perfect for walking or a leisurely bike ride. While not a wilderness hike, it provides a great way to experience the local shoreline.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
Most established parks and preserves, such as Bald Mountain State Recreation Area and Salt River Nature Preserve, have designated parking areas. However, lots can fill up on weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea. For trails with street access, be sure to check for local parking restrictions.
Can I go hiking in New Baltimore during the winter?
Winter hiking is definitely possible and offers a different perspective on the landscape. Trails can be icy or snow-covered, so proper footwear with good traction, like microspikes, is recommended. Stick to well-marked, familiar trails as paths can be harder to follow under snow.
Are there any long-distance trails in the region?
The immediate area is better known for its shorter day hikes within parks and preserves. However, the Bridge To Bay Trail is a longer multi-use path that stretches for many miles, connecting several communities. For a more immersive long-distance hiking experience, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers over 100 miles of trails a few hours away.
What are the main parks for hiking near New Baltimore?
The region has several key parks for hiking. Bald Mountain State Recreation Area is a large, rugged park with numerous trails and lakes. For a shorter, quieter walk, the Salt River Nature Preserve is a good local option. The Hiking loop from Gainesville also provides a pleasant route through local green spaces.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near New Baltimore?
Waterfalls are not a prominent feature of the landscape immediately surrounding New Baltimore. The local trails are primarily known for their serene woodlands and gentle terrain. You would need to travel further afield to find significant waterfall hikes.
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