The beginning of November is the best time to see the D.C area’s beautiful fall foliage. There’s nothing better than leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city for a day to get more in touch with nature. In this busy season, taking some time to unwind outdoors can reduce stress and anxiety, and luckily there are plenty of local places to do this. Here are our top five spots to take in all of the gorgeous foliage.
Top places for fall foliage
Located nearby our Clarksburg Town Center, Mateny Hill and Reserve at Black Rock communities, this 2,000-acre park has plenty of chances to appreciate the foliage. It features trails, picnic shelters and more. We recommend renting a small rowboat or kayak and following the Black Hill Water Trail. You’ll have spectacular views of Little Lake Seneca and all the surrounding woodlands. It’s absolutely beautiful this time of year.
It’s a little further north than Black Hill Regional Park, but the scenic route makes it an easy drive. Sugarloaf Mountain rises 800 feet above the nearby farmland and offers stunning views of dense forests. There are several hiking trails and lookout points. So, if you want a bird’s eye view of a vast and colorful canopy, make a day trip up to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Only 15 miles from Washington, D.C., Great Falls Park is a terrific choice for those wanting to embrace nature. You can hike, go horseback riding or even bike through the many trails. There are high cliffs that offer breath-taking views of the Potomac River and the accompanying foliage. Some locations aren’t open during this time of year due to flooding, but there are still more than enough areas to scope out some amazing scenery.
United States National Arboretum
This 445-acre federal land has curated collections and gardens that contain hundreds of different species of trees, shrubs and other plants. You can hike, bike or even drive through the arboretum. We recommend getting out of the car if you can and taking in some fresh air. If there are any particular plant species that interests you, check out this handy guide that can tell you exactly where to find them. Take a picture with your state tree!
This national park is located within Washington, D.C. itself, so city residents have no excuse not to check it out. It’s 1,754 acres and features more than 32 miles of paths and trails. Along with the majestic foliage everywhere you look, there are also interesting historical areas with Civil War fortifications, mills, colonial houses and more. Authorized in 1890, Rock Creek Park is the third-oldest national park and a part of our country’s history. Don’t miss out on a fantastic chance to enjoy nature within the city.
Although out metro is most associated with big cities, that doesn’t mean there aren’t ample options for outdoor getaways. Craftmark Homes is proud to have served the Washington, D.C. area for more than 27 years. If you’re in the market to purchase a home, contact us to discuss your plans. With many different floor plans and communities to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find your dream home with us.