Stroll through scenic gardens and rugged hiking trails to enjoy the fall sights this autumn.

Summer gets the family road trips and the fireworks, but fall has its own quiet magic — crisp air, golden light and trees putting on a show that's easy to miss if you're not looking for it. In a city built around monuments and museums, it's easy to forget that some of DC's best family moments are hiding in plain sight: a walk through a canopy of turning leaves, a scavenger hunt for the reddest maple, a hot cider after an afternoon outdoors.

Whether you're chasing foliage with toddlers in a stroller or teenagers who'd rather be on their phones, these spots across the District offer a reason to get outside together before the cold really sets in.

Battery Kemble

A historic and captivating trail, Battery Kemble winds through a beautiful forest and is a great place to see the foliage with your family, walk the dog or let kids explore.

  • Time commitment: One to two hours
  • Cost expectation: Free
  • Practical tip: Pack bug spray.

Glover Archbold

Connecting to several other trails and local roadways, Glover Archbold Trail is a convenient way to view foliage and wildlife close to home.

  • Note: All paths as rugged dirt trails and major streets bisect the park and require careful crossings; bicycles are prohibited.
  • Time commitment: About two hours
  • Cost expectation: Free
  • Practical tip: The trail intersects with several others and has multiple potential routes, so check trail maps in advance to determine which path is best for you.

Tregaron

An oasis in the urban desert, Tregaron Conservancy is home to some of the city's most beautiful foliage and wildlife. The conservancy hosts an iconic lily pond, over 300 trees and unique native grasses and wildflowers.

  • Note: There are no bathrooms on-site.
  • Time commitment: About two hours
  • Cost expectation: Free to visit
  • Practical tip: Tregaron hosts several activities on the property, including tai chi and yoga.

Great Falls

Located just outside the capital, Great Falls' beautiful rapids are accented by falling leaves and golden foliage. Home to a variety of rare plants and animals, Great Falls is a wonderful spot for nature watching in addition to sightseeing.

  • Time commitment: Two to three hours
  • Cost expectation: $10-20 per person
  • Practical tip: The park is cashless, so make sure you have your cards and digital wallets ready.

C&O Canal Towpath

This historic trail from DC to Maryland is perfect for a bike ride or hike. Check out some of the historic sites, eye-catching waterfalls and an impeccable view of the Potomac River. Consider pitching a tent at one of many campsites to see the foliage in multiple lights.

  • Time commitment: Two to three hours
  • Cost expectation: Free at most park locations; Great Falls Tavern entrance fees apply
  • Practical tip: On the Maryland side, the trail lets out near the Brunswick Heritage Museum.

Hillwood Estate

Hillwood Estate's gardens are specially designed to bloom in both the spring and fall. Stroll through the greenhouse, Japanese gardens, lunar lawn or French Parterre to view the beautiful leaves and collections of art.

  • Time commitment: About two hours
  • Cost expectation: Suggested donation of $5 for children, $20 for adults
  • Practical tip: Even if the weather isn't good for a garden visit, you can visit the museum and gallery indoors.

Meridian Hill

Once an aristocrat's mansion and the home of President John Quincy Adams, Meridian Hill Park is home to some of the most scenic brown and golden leaves in the city. As you examine the foliage, take some time to walk past one of North America's longest cascading fountains.

  • Time commitment: Around two hours
  • Cost expectation: Free
  • Practical tip: Many areas of the park have been recently renovated, so stop by soon even if you've already been.

Book Hill

One of many scenic spots in Georgetown, Book Hill Park is home to a variety of flowers, shrubs and trees that bring a relaxing aura to the busy area. Once a reservoir, the Friends of Book Hill coordinated to clear the area of trash and invasive species to create the scenic park you see today.

  • Time commitment: Around two hours
  • Cost expectation: Free
  • Practical tip: When you're finished at the park, stroll around Georgetown's scenic streets and stop by its specialty shops.