Outdoor Recreation Overview
The Washington, D.C. area offers endless outdoor recreational opportunities for all ages. Step outside and you’ll discover beautiful parks to relax in, trails to hike and bike, and places for kayaking and boating. Families will love the playgrounds, waterparks, horseback riding trails, and outdoor ice skating rinks.
Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia are also known for historic trails like the C&O Canal Towpath, where you can bike or walk along the Potomac River from Georgetown north all the way to Cumberland, Maryland. Additionally, there is a network of Neighborhood Heritage Trails, allowing visitors to walk through history with themes such as the African-American Heritage Trail and River Farms to Urban Towers.
Hiking, Walking, Jogging, and Running
With hundreds of miles of great hiking and walking trails, the Washington, D.C. area has many scenic destinations for the outdoor enthusiast. Head out on your own or join a group to get some exercise and fresh air.
- Neighborhood Heritage Trails are the official walking trails of Washington, D.C., and each themed trail has a downloadable guide with historical narrative.
- Organizations such as AVA: America’s Walking Club have self-paced permanent trails (with maps and instructions) open to the public.
- Runners enjoy sights in the area while running in places like the National Mall and the historic C&O Canal Towpath.
Biking
Washington, D.C. is becoming one of the most bike-friendly cities in the nation. Explore more than 800 miles of biking trails throughout the metropolitan region, such as the 13-mile Capital Crescent Trail and the 184-mile Chesapeake & Ohio Towpath.
Parks and Picnic Areas
The Washington, D.C. area boasts both large and small parks, some with picnic facilities and visitor centers. Here are some top spots for recreation and family picnics:
- Constitution Gardens on the National Mall and Rock Creek Park, extending 12 miles from the Potomac River.
- Maryland Parks, including Glen Echo National Park which has picnic areas, dance activities, and an antique carousel.
- Northern Virginia Parks feature Alexandria’s Fort Ward Park and the scenic Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac River.
Playgrounds
In Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia, kids can work off energy at various fun playgrounds like:
- East Potomac Park, offering mini-golf, playgrounds, and a public outdoor pool.
- Wheaton Regional Park in Maryland featuring climbing structures, swings, and a carousel.
- Upton Hill Regional Park in Arlington, VA, which includes hiking trails and a swimming pool with slides.
Swimming
Indoor and outdoor swimming facilities are abundant in the Washington, D.C. area, such as:
- Banneker Pool, which features various swimming areas and a concession stand.
- City of Alexandria’s aquatic facilities, including an outdoor lap pool and training pool for kids.
- Deanwood Aquatic Center in Boyds, MD, offering swim classes and facilities for family fun.
Water Parks
Spending a hot summer day at a water park is a perfect family activity:
- Great Waves Water Park in Alexandria, a fun commercial waterpark.
- Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole in Reston, known for its flumes and gold rush theme.
- Ocean Dunes Waterpark in Arlington offers beach-themed slides and attractions.
Cruising, Kayaking, and Boating
Enjoy boating in the Washington, D.C. area, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities on the Potomac River. Popular spots include:
- Local outfitters provide guided day trips across beautiful destinations in the region.
- Rent canoes and stand-up paddle boards at Key Bridge Boathouse.
Fishing
The Washington, D.C. area has excellent fishing opportunities. Consider these popular spots:
- Fishing along the Potomac River and its tributaries, including Fletchers Boat House.
- Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay region for bay and ocean fishing opportunities.
- Virginia’s lakes, streams, and fishing piers, like those at Jones Point Park.
Zip Lines and Ropes Courses
Experience thrilling zip line tours and treetop adventures available near Washington, D.C.
- Terrapin Adventures in Savage, MD offers zip lines and obstacle courses.
- River Riders in Harpers Ferry provides guided tours with multiple zip lines and climbing experiences.
Horseback Riding
Hit the trails and enjoy horseback riding experiences around the Washington, D.C. area:
- Rock Creek Park Horse Center offers riding lessons and trail rides.
- Woodland Horse Center in Silver Spring provides riding camps and lessons.
- River Chase Farm in Virginia offers scenic rides with wine and cheese pairings.
Skiing and Snowboarding
For winter fun, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing a few hours from Washington, D.C. Some highlights include:
- Liberty Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania has multiple trails and accommodations.
- Whitetail Resort offers night skiing and various dining options.
- Massanutten Resort features skiing, tubing, and an indoor water park.
Ice Skating
Seasonal outdoor ice skating is a favorite activity in the Washington, D.C. area:
- The ice-skating rink at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden is popular among visitors.
- Washington Harbor Ice Rink offers beautiful views while skating on the Georgetown waterfront.
- Ice rinks in Maryland offer a combination of skating, shopping, and dining opportunities.
