The best walks and hikes around New Carrollton
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Hiking around New Carrollton, Maryland, features a network of trails primarily within accessible parks and natural areas. The region is characterized by forested environments, tranquil lakes, and extensive trail systems that connect various green spaces. These natural features provide diverse landscapes for outdoor activities, ranging from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
Best hiking trails around New Carrollton
- The most popular hiking route is Perimeter Trail loop — Greenbelt Park, a 5.4 miles (8.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 18 minutes to complete. This moderate route encircles Greenbelt Park, offering a serene hike through the forest.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Greenbelt Lake Trail loop — Buddy Attick Lake Park, an easy 1.9 miles (3.0 km) path. This trail encircles Greenbelt Lake, providing opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Local hikers also love the Azalea Trail loop — Greenbelt Park, a 1.3 miles (2.1 km) trail leading through a shaded forest, often completed in about 33 minutes.
- Hiking around New Carrollton is defined by accessible parklands, forested trails, and scenic lake loops. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to moderate hikes.
- The routes in New Carrollton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.75 stars. More than 100 hikers have used komoot to explore New Carrollton's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
3
hikers
12.0km
03:03
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8.24km
02:05
10m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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16.0km
04:09
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
8.74km
02:18
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
2.99km
00:46
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around New Carrollton
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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This picturesque lake is the centerpiece of this beautiful park. A dirt and stone path winds its way around the lake and through the woods, with plenty of bird species that inhabit the area. There are nice benches along the shoreline, a perfect place to spend time admiring its tranquil beauty.
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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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The Perimeter Trail is the longest route among the four trails in Greenbelt Park, encircling the entire park perimeter, offering a serene and picturesque hike. As you follow this trail, you'll come across the park's charming picnic areas at the northern end, where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings. On the southern end, you can stroll through the park's inviting campground and stop at the ranger station, which offers trail maps, information, a water station and restrooms.
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The Dogwood Trail is a 1.5-mile loop through the forest that ends right back on the Perimeter Trail. The beauty of the trees and the ample shade makes it a perfect side trail to extend your hike, especially on a hot day. There are nice benches along the way, ideal for a place to sit and enjoy the tranquility of the woods.
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Buddy Attick Lake Park offers a flat trail encircling the Greenbelt Lake, giving visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife such as great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. The park features a playground, a recycling center, restrooms, and well-maintained facilities. This park is a popular spot for watching fireworks on the Fourth of July.
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Managed by the National Park Service since 1950, Greenbelt Park is a forested park with paved, unpaved, and boardwalk trails running through it. The park boasts many amenities, including a 5.3-mile hiking trail, Park Central Road for bikers, an equestrian trail, shorter nature trails, numerous campsites, and three picnic areas.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in New Carrollton?
New Carrollton offers a diverse selection of hiking opportunities, with over 25 routes available. These trails range from easy strolls to moderate hikes, catering to various fitness levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, New Carrollton has many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Greenbelt Lake Trail loop — Buddy Attick Lake Park is an easy 1.9-mile path around Greenbelt Lake, offering wildlife observation. Another great option is the Azalea Trail loop — Greenbelt Park, a 1.3-mile shaded forest walk.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in New Carrollton?
Many parks in the New Carrollton area, including Greenbelt Park and Buddy Attick Lake Park, are generally dog-friendly. It's always a good idea to keep your dog on a leash and check specific park regulations for any restrictions before your visit.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, New Carrollton features several excellent circular routes. The Perimeter Trail loop — Greenbelt Park is a popular 5.4-mile moderate loop. For an easier option, consider the Greenbelt Lake Trail loop — Buddy Attick Lake Park or the Azalea Trail loop — Greenbelt Park.
What kind of natural features or wildlife can I expect to see?
The trails around New Carrollton offer diverse natural features, including forested environments, tranquil lakes, and extensive green spaces. At Buddy Attick Lake Park, you can observe wildlife such as great blue herons, songbirds, turtles, foxes, and squirrels. Greenbelt Park also provides a serene forest setting for nature viewing.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the trails?
Yes, several points of interest enhance the hiking experience. You can explore Buddy Attick Lake Park and Lake Artemesia, both popular for their scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The Patuxent Research Refuge is also nearby, offering further natural exploration.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, most major parks and trailheads in the New Carrollton area, such as Greenbelt Park and Buddy Attick Lake Park, offer designated parking facilities for hikers. These are generally well-maintained and easily accessible.
Can I reach the hiking trails using public transportation?
New Carrollton is served by public transportation, and some trail access points may be reachable via local bus routes. For specific routes and schedules to trailheads like Greenbelt Park or Buddy Attick Lake Park, it's advisable to check the local transit authority's website.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in New Carrollton?
Hiking in New Carrollton is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush green scenery with ample shade on many trails. Even winter can be beautiful for a crisp walk, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there any longer hiking options for more experienced hikers?
While many trails are easy to moderate, the Perimeter Trail loop — Greenbelt Park is a moderate 5.4-mile route. Additionally, the region connects to the broader Anacostia Tributary Trail System, a 29.9-mile network, offering opportunities for extended hikes and linking various green spaces.
What do other hikers say about the trails in New Carrollton?
The trails in New Carrollton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of these natural escapes within the urban environment.
Are there shaded trails for warmer days?
Yes, many trails in New Carrollton, particularly those within Greenbelt Park like the Azalea Trail loop and the Dogwood Trail, wind through forested areas, providing ample shade. This makes them pleasant options for hiking even on warmer days.
Are there trails suitable for biking or other activities besides hiking?
Yes, some trails in the area are multi-use. The Indian Creek Trail, which connects to Lake Artemesia, is an asphalt trail open for biking, walking, and even horseback riding. Buddy Attick Lake Park also offers amenities beyond hiking, including a playground.
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