These 10 Gorgeous Waterfront Trails In Washington DC Are Perfect For A Summer Day
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Maura
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Washington DC is situated between some stunning waterways. From the Potomac to the Anacostia River, there are plenty of great spots to get waterfront views in the district. If you are looking to jog, run or bike along the water this summer, these 10 best waterfront trails are perfect for you!
The full C&O Canal is almost 185 miles along but there is a portion of it that cuts through DC. The Towpath starts in Georgetown and you can run, bike or job along the canal. The path isn’t paved but it’s flat and makes for a beautiful ride.
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is a 20 mile trail that takes you along the Anacostia River. It’s recently been expanded and the 12 foot wide trail is perfect for bikers, runners, rollerbladers or walkers.
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The Mount Vernon takes you from Theodore Roosevelt Island to George Washington’s Mount Vernon. The trail is a flat paved trail that gives bikers and joggers spectacular views of the Potomac, the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial and the DC landscape.
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The Capital Crescent Trail is an 11 mile shared-use trail from Georgetown into Silver Spring, MD. In Georgetown, the trail is boarded by the Potomac River on one side and the C&O Canal towpath on the other.
Located in Rock Creek Park, the Western Ridge Trail is a dirt trail that is ideal for trail running or hiking. It’s about four miles and will take you along Rock Creek. The trail is mostly shaded and is one of the quieter trails in the parks.
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The Potomac Heritage Trail has history, nature and recreation. The path follows routes traveled by George Washington. The part of the trail closest to DC is 10 mile trail along the Potomac near Arlington, VA.
This trail is a connection between Alexandria, VA and National Harbor in MD. It takes you over the Potomac River and offers little stations or "bump-outs" throughout the trail so bikers, walkers, or runners can take a moment to enjoy the amazing views.
This trail follows a shaded route along Rock Creek and takes you from DC to Lake Needwood Regional Park, in Maryland. The trail is quite narrow and winding and is not always well marked but those familiar with the area will enjoy the beautiful views.
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This is a 10 mile trail that runs along Sligo Creek. It’s part of the Anacostia Trail System and will take you from Takoma Park into Wheaton, MD. There are many places along the trail to stop for a picnic or a snack.
Turkey run is a 3.2 mile loop near McLean, Virginia. It takes you down along the Potomac River and is perfect for spotting wildlife.
If you love being near water and in nature, you will love these hikes to gorgeous waterfalls near DC!
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