Nature Trails
Experience three miles of nature trails throughout our nearly 2,000 acres that are as varied as they are scenic.
Stratford Hall features nature trails and hiking experiences that range from easy, simple nature walks to hiking routes for those seeking to push themselves and their endurance.
Potomac River Trails & Views
From river views to wildlife and wildflowers, we invite you to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the eight marked trails throughout our Historic Preserve. Trail maps are available at the Visitor Center.
With the purchase of a Grounds Pass, you will have eight trails from which to choose:
Payne Cabin Trail
A short walk to the Payne Cabin, built in the 1940s at the request of Mr. Wesley Payne, as a memorial to his ancestors who were enslaved at Stratford during the 18th–19th centuries.
EASY – 0.11 MILES
Vista Trail
See the Great House from a different perspective at the crest of the Vista.
EASY – 0.16 MILES
Spring House Trail
Short, easy hike with gradual slopes – approximately a quarter-mile loop – passes by a natural spring flowing past two reconstructed brick springhouses.
EASY – 0.20 MILES
Little Meadow Run Trail
The longest trail on the property, it traverses streams, ravines, and valleys with steep slopes and flat areas. Younger trees and ferns predominate on valley floors, with a mixed hardwood strand of oaks, poplars, and beech trees in the higher elevations. Hikers can retrace their steps back to the historic area or continue to the Overlook via the Silver Beech Hiking Trail.
MODERATE TO DIFFICULT – 0.79 MILES
Silver Beech Trail
Wide trail follows working road from the 1930s or before. Connects hikers to the northern end of the Little Meadow Run nature trail.
MODERATE – 0.33 MILES
Cliffs Overlook Trail
Walk between the Cliffs and the remains of a 18th-century tobacco rolling road from the Overlook to the beach area.
MODERATE – 0.23 MILES
Mill Pond Trail
Over a half-mile trail that skirts along the edge of the Mill Pond and the rolling landscape. Hikers will enjoy possible sightings of waterfowl and turtles sunning on half-submerged logs in the six-acre Mill Pond.
MODERATE TO DIFFICULT – 0.59 MILES
Burial Vault Trail
Easy walk with gentle slopes and little underbrush.
EASY – 0.30 MILES