Start your hike at Cabin John Trail.

There is a sign marking the start of the trail, located behind the playground. It is a steep decline at the onset, so take care when navigating the first mile and be on guard with dogs that are strong pullers. Though it is technical initially it is definitely fun for the kids, and it eases up shortly thereafter. Continue to follow the trail for two miles, and either turn back for about four miles roundtrip or push on by heading right on Seven Locks Road. At this point, you will go underneath the Beltway. Continuing on, after about a quarter of a mile you will reach a parking lot with an entrance back on to the trail so you can continue as long as suits your comfort level, bearing in mind that you will be returning the same distance.

We love this trail when we have a free afternoon. The trailhead isn't too far from the city and you can turn back at any point, letting the hike be as long or as short as you and your kiddos like! There are picnic tables, a playground, tennis and basketball courts, and other athletic fields at Cabin John Park, so plan a picnic and some playtime before or after your hike. The park is about a ten-minute drive from Matchbox and Moby Dick House of Kabobs' Bethesda locations! Both restaurants are great places to pick up a picnic to bring to the park on a nice afternoon. 

The park is also very close to Glen Echo Park, where you can take a stroll back in time as it was formerly an early 20th Century amusement park. There is also an aquarium there!