Let’s go hiking!
November 17th is National Take a Hike Day.
Whomever came up with this ‘day’ deserves a raise. But do listen to them, and get outside on Sunday. It should be in the mid-40’s with a small chance of drizzle.
Let’s say you can’t travel too far or don’t have a car. Where can you hike in DC?
Obviously, Rock Creek Park will be a solid choice no matter your skill level, and we have a nice hike you can emulate. (Hint: It includes a cidery and a brewery!)
But if you want to branch out a bit, and explore new areas, here are a few ideas.
U.S. National Arboretum
I’ve been really enjoying exploring the Arboretum over the past few months. The Conifers Collections area is quite fetching, and indeed the whole NE corner of the Arboretum is ripe for a stroll. Take in the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum (closes at 4pm), and also head over to Supreme Core Cider afterwards which is only a few blocks from the R Street NE entrance. (Open 2-6pm on Sundays)
Guide to Indigenous Peoples Walk
I recently did a bike ride (but it’s meant as a hike), of key sites that honor or remember the indigenous peoples of the Americas. Check it out as you will learn a lot. There is an app to guide you as well. About 9 miles.
Potomac National Heritage Scenic Trail
Starting from the Teddy Roosevelt Island parking lot, this cool trail skirts the edge of Virginia’s side of the Potomac River, running between the George Washington Memorial Parkway and the river. There are many ups and downs, and depending on the tide, the water level may encroach near parts of the trail, but it is really an amazing look at the scenary upriver from Georgetown. Speaking of which, you can cross Chain Bridge and hike back along the C&O Canal Towpath and end in Georgetown, for about 9 miles.
Fort Circle Parks Hiker/Biker Trail
We’ll talk more about this hike later, but here we have a cool little gem that starts in Anacostia (at the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum), and strolls through a series of old Civil War forts, before ending near the Minnesota Ave. Metro Station. About 7.5 miles.
If you need more ideas on where to hike in DC, let us know, we’ve been everywhere!
A DC Journey 