Thanks everyone - so helpful!!

I like Cedarville State Forest in MD and Prince William National Forest in VA

https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/southern/cedarville.aspx

https://www.nps.gov/prwi/index.htm

If you don’t mind paved roads connecting trails, the arboretum is terrific. You can amble around in there for hours.

Seneca Creek Greenway Trail - walks around pond
South Germantown Park (Boyds MD) - paved
Black Hill Regional Park
Wheaton Regional
Lake Needwood
Capital Crescent - but this is super busy with rude people that will run you over with their bike and nobody says hi.


https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-trails/trails/page/2/#:~:text=Montgomery%20County%20Trails%201%20Paint%20Branch%20Trail%20This,8%20Upper%20Rock%20Creek%20Trail%20...%20More%20items

C and O Tow Path, I like to start at Riley Lock or Violet's lock, or Poolesville - it's a pretty ride if you take the backroads. Parking if free everywhere (I think) except Great Falls. It's way less crowded the further you drive.

https://www.canaltrust.org/plan/co-canal-towpath/

Rock Creek has hundreds of miles of trails that our family uses all the time. The Arboretum and the zoo are also great places to walk.

The last part meant to say - a route that is mostly flat or moderate but might come across some more moderate to strenuous areas would work great, as well.

Hello -
Looking for some moderate to strenuous hikes in or right around DC. I know of the more popular ones that are a short drive away such as Sugar Loaf. I also know about Billy Goat - which I love but looking for something with a little less constant climbing. Anything like this nearby - or at least a route that takes you to some moderate areas if the rest if easier?

Thank you.