Washington D.C boasts greenspaces that will keep any nature lover visitor happy. In fact, this outdoor dedication is highlighted by the fact that one can walk or ride to the airport via the Mount Vernon Trail flyreagan.com – Biking & Walking (YES!).
I also walked by or through a significant number of parks just in the small area we visited. The parks varied from less than half a block to large ones. Additionally, I loved that the city had significant dedicated bike lanes in addition to bike and scooter rentals in practically every corner. It made for a very walker/biker/outdoor friendly city A Washington DC Spring Break – HER//Excursions (herexcursions.com).
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
I had a nagging knee injury when my daughter and I arrived in DC. Disappointed, I ‘saved’ the knee by walking instead. And it helped. I put my knee through the paces on our last day in the city. My goal was a longish, slow run. I ended up running about 8.5 miles.
From the hotel, I took the M-street sidewalk to the Georgetown shopping district, and down to the waterfront. From there, I turned left and followed a section of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) I crossed the Arlington Memorial Bridge and wound up at a Cemetery entrance. I turned around and made my way back to the Georgetown waterfront. Here, I ran through the small but relaxing Georgetown Waterfront Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov). I only turned back at a barrier under the Key Bridge.
As I headed back to the hotel on M street, I impulsively veered off into Rock Creek Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) on M-street. I only turned back when the trail left the park to turn to follow a road. I finished my run back at the hotel, but not before tripping and falling (after a gusty wind bowled me over) soon after crossing a street. No worries. I did not sustain any injuries. And thankfully the street was empty.
National Mall Park
I recommend a visit to the National Mall from the point of view of an outdoors lover. This beautiful space of manicured lawns, fountains and awe-inspiring statues is great for walking and strolling amongst other things Outdoor Activities – National Mall and Memorial Parks (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).
In conclusion, I can say confidently that Washington D.C greenspaces should lure any nature lover to visit the Capital. The abundance of trails and greenspaces in this urban jungle somehow makes the city feel small, and intimate. And I loved every bit of it.
