Rock Creek Park

Overview

Rock Creek Park is a 1,754-acre urban national park in northwest Washington, D.C., one of the largest and oldest urban parks in the United States. It offers over 32 miles of hiking and biking trails, a nature center, and a planetarium.

Highlights

• Hiking Trails: Over 32 miles of trails including the Valley Trail and Western Ridge Trail.
• Peirce Mill: A restored 1820s gristmill that still grinds grain on weekends.
• Nature Center and Planetarium: Free exhibits on local wildlife and astronomy programs.

History

Established by Congress in 1890, making it one of the first federal parks in the United States. The park's steep, forested ravines remained undeveloped through centuries, preserving a rare old-growth forest ecosystem within a major American city.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Beach Drive is closed to cars on weekends, creating a peaceful route for cyclists and joggers.
• Tip 2: The Boulder Bridge, built in 1902, is a photogenic stone arch spanning the creek.
• Duration: 1–3 hours.