The Underrated Island In DC That Will Make You Feel Miles Away From It All
By Maura
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Published September 05, 2017
Now that the summer heat is fading, many Washingtonians are venturing outdoors to enjoy the beautiful fall weather. When you want to explore in DC, look no further than Theodore Roosevelt Island. This tiny island across the Potomac in Arlington is the perfect place to escape it all.
Theodore Roosevelt Island is, of course, dedicated to the President Theodore Roosevelt who was the country’s 26th president.
Roosevelt was an avid outdoorsmen and the island was created to to mimi natural forests and swamps. It was designed in 1930s on a piece of neglected farmland.
There are no cars or bikes allowed in the island and to access it, you have to cross a pedestrian footbridge.
Once you’ve crossed the bridge, you will be treated to a peaceful natural oasis. You will enjoy plenty of wildlife including herons, ducks, frogs, fish and the occasional deer.
There are three trails on the island that are perfect for exploring. They are all great for beginners and on relatively flat terrain.
The Swamp Trail is a 1.5 mile loop that takes you around the island through the woods and marshes.
The Upland Trail is a .75 mile trail that extends the length of the island and the Woods Trail take you to the Memorial Plaza.
The memorial is marked by two fountains and four grant tablets that have tenets of the president’s conservation philosophy. And, of course, there is a 17-foot bronze statue of Teddy Roosevelt himself.
You can also fish on the island if you have a permit. But most people truly just enjoy exploring, walking and immersing themselves in nature while on Theodore Roosevelt Island.
There is no driving on the island but there is a parking lot north of Roosevelt Bridge near the pedestrian bridge. There is also a bike rack on the island to lock up your bikes. The island is open every day from dawn until dusk.
Will you explore Theodore Roosevelt Island this fall?
If you’ve already explored Theodore Roosevelt Island, you might want to venture to this remote island in DC as well.
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